Turkmenistan Celebrates 34th Independence Anniversary with Akhal-Teke Horse Races and Dazzling Cultural Performances

Written by Dr. Abdul Rahim Abdul Wahid

Ashgabat – Turkmenistan celebrated its 34th anniversary of glorious independence in an exceptionally festive atmosphere in the capital, Ashgabat, attended by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, senior officials, and foreign diplomats. The events, held at the modern equestrian complex, combined sports, heritage, and culture in a majestic spectacle that astonished both local and international audiences.

The celebrations featured a wonderful mix of the famous Akhal-Teke horse races—a symbol of national pride and authentic Turkmen heritage—and diverse artistic and cultural performances. Before the races began, President Berdimuhamedov toured exhibition pavilions showcasing the achievements of various regions of Turkmenistan, as well as the cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag, and listened to a detailed explanation of the cultural and artistic projects that reflect the country’s rich heritage.

The program included live musical performances using traditional Turkmen instruments, folk dances reflecting the heritage of our ancestors, and demonstrations of handicrafts and crafts, such as engraving on traditional jewelry and horse harnesses decorated with precious stones. The President praised the brilliance of these performances, which showcased the beauty of Turkmen heritage to the world and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

Then, a series of exciting races began, enthusiastically watched by thousands of spectators. The results were as follows:

Race 1 (1,600 meters): “Babadash” from the Presidential Complex won with a time of 1:51.3 minutes.
Race 2 (1,600 meters): “Jelzek” from the Ashgabat Municipality won with a time of 1:51.7 minutes.
Race 3 (1,600 meters): “Hazina” from the Ministry of Defense took the lead with a time of 1:50 minutes, the fastest race of the day.
Race 4 (1,600 meters): “Dovamat” from the Presidential Complex won with a time of 1:48.2 minutes.
Race 5 (1,600 meters): “Grayul” from Ashgabat Municipality finished first with a time of 1:48.7 minutes.
Race 6 (2,200 meters): “Gedratlidag” from the state-owned enterprise “Tokay Hojalygi” won with a time of 2 minutes and 33 seconds.
Grand Final Race (2,200 meters): “Bzergen” from the Presidential Complex won the Presidential Grand Prix with a time of 2 minutes and 34.5 seconds.

The winners of the first six races received 100,000 manats each, while the winner of the final race received a special prize of 300,000 manats, crowning the celebrations by highlighting the deep ties between Turkmen culture, heritage, and national identity.

Turkmenistan’s Horses and the Legendary Akhal-Teke Breed

The Akhal-Teke, known worldwide as the “Golden Horse,” is the most famous and distinguished breed in Turkmenistan and is considered an enduring national symbol. Its origins date back thousands of years. It is distinguished by its shiny golden coat that reflects the sun’s rays, its great speed, endurance, and exceptional intelligence, enabling it to adapt to the harshest environmental conditions, even when food and water are scarce.

These horses are characterized by the following characteristics:

Golden Sheen: Shiny coat that resembles polished metal.
Speed and Endurance: One of the fastest and most capable horses for long distance running.
Intelligence: Strong character and remarkable intelligence, requiring a professional trainer.
Bond with Trainer: Known as the “One Master’s Horse,” it is loyal to its owner only.
Physique: Solid bones, flat muscles, strong legs, and almond-shaped eyes.

Turkmenistan celebrates the “National Day of the Turkmen Horse” annually, which includes races, artistic performances, and beauty contests. In the 2025 edition of these celebrations in Arkadag, the chestnut horse “Meligush” won the title of Most Beautiful Horse, and its owner received a car and an honorary cup. Thoroughbred horses were also presented to the country as gifts from various provinces.

Despite their rarity—there are only about 6,600 horses worldwide—this breed continues to shine at international festivals, such as the Monaco Circus Festival, remaining a symbol of beauty, speed, and strength, and a bridge between Turkmenistan’s rich heritage and its contemporary global presence.