How it all began.

According to one popular story, the prophet Mohammed wanted to select the very best horses for his warriors. He ordered his men to bring a herd of horses to an enclosure and keep them there for seven days - without water.
  At the end of the week, part of the enclosure was taken down and the parched horses raced towards a nearby pool. Suddenly, Mohammed sounded the battle call and five mares turned towards him - the only horses to respond despite their desperate thirst.
   All pure-bred Arabs throughout the world are said to be descended from these five mares. From that time, strict rules have been enforced to keep the blood-lines as pure as possible.
   Whatever their true origins, Arabs are certainly unusual - they differ from most other horses because they have 17 ribs, 5 lumbar vertebrae and 16 tail bones. Other horses have a pattern of 18, 6, 18.

The pure Arab foal with its finely chiselled head and large eyes is always a spectacular sight. The child of the desert is as fast as the wind, bold, intelligent and very affectionate.

APPEARANCE.
A small, 'dished' face with a broad forehead, tapering to a narrow muzzle and flared nostrils. The Arab's wide-set eyes are bright and its long ears alert. It has an arched neck, a broad, muscular chest and a strong, level back. The legs are tough and the feet are hard and round. The Arab's mane and tail hair is long, flowing and silky.

HEIGHT.
14.2hh to 15.2hh

COLOUR.
Most often bay, chestnut, brown or black.

PERSONALITY.
A superb breed, famous for its intelligence and lively nature as much as for its loyalty and love of human company. Holding its head high, with mane and tail flowing, it is a picture of perfection.
The Arab is an excellent competitor, popular for endurance and racing events, as well as for general riding and showing.