One of the most striking models that Breyer has introduced in a long while is Sheik af Hallundbaek. Sheik is a portrait model of a 5 year old Knabstrupper stallion bred out LaRen Stables in Ocala, FL. The honor of being produced into a Breyer model that will enter the lives of tens of thousands of people all over the world is held for exceptional horses only, and Sheik is no exception. Bred in 2003 Shiek has gone on to become an exceptional stallion representing the Knabstrupper breed proudly. In 2007 Sheik was the first Danish bred Knabstrupper to pass the Rheinland Pfalz-Saar International 30 day stallion test in North America, in which a horse is tested rigorously to determine early stallion admission into the prestigious Rheinland Pfalz-Saar International of North America.
Knabstruppers are a European breed that are most distinctively known for their spotted coats and for their excellence in Dressage among other sports. Coat colors for the breed include bay, black and chestnut and can be any form of the appaloosa pattern, including solid or “No Spot”. The most desirable coat color is a leopard appaloosa, like Shiek. Originally bred as carriage horses in the 1800’s, the Knabstrupper has been cross bred with European Warmbloods to create a sport type horse that can compete at the highest levels. There is also a classic type Knabstrupper that is similar to a Cob that is used for carriage pulling and a pony type which is under 14.2 hands high.
Breyer’s Sheik is spot for spot an exact copy of the real Sheik right down to his stable brand, and is on the Hanovarian mold. The model Sheik makes a great representation of not only the breed but also of Sheik himself. This mold is preforming a dressage movement, the extended trot. The Hanovarian mold which was introduced in 1980 is not new to honoring great sport horses. The mold has also honored horses such as Art Deco, Borodino II, Gifted and Pay and Go, all of which are retired and no longer available.
In addition to being honored as a Breyer Horse, Sheik also has the honor of being a Guest of Honor at Breyerfest 2009, the 20th anniversary. Fans from all over the world will have a chance to meet Sheik and his owners and have a chance to have their models signed at what will be the biggest birthday party the horse park has ever seen! Stay tuned to Stable News for live coverage from Breyerfest 2009 coming in just two weeks! Even if you can’t attend and meet Sheik, we’ll be there to keep you in the front seat!
~ Stacy
Posted by goldenoakstables 
