On March 22, 2026, the Ashgabat Equestrian Sports Complex hosted the grand opening of the spring horse racing season. Coinciding with the international celebrations of Nowruz, the event transformed into a double festivities characterized by vibrant musical performances and cultural exhibitions. Fans of the world-renowned Akhal-Teke horses witnessed ten thrilling races with distances ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 meters, marking a high-energy start to the nation's competitive racing calendar.

The Akhal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan dominated several key races of the day. The grey horse Bellidag secured the first win of the season in a 1,200-meter sprint with a time of 1 minute and 21 seconds. Other notable winners from the presidential stable included Gulzar in the second race, Shertli in the seventh, the black stallion Kapeler in the eighth, and Yangyn, who closed the day with a spectacular first-place finish in the tenth and final race.

Private breeders and state organizations also showcased exceptional equine talent. Messan, representing the "Turkmenhimiya" State Concern, and Zyýada, from the farm of A. Charyyev, emerged victorious in their respective heats. Gayratly, a chestnut horse owned by M. Seyidov, clocked an impressive 1 minute 21.2 seconds in the fifth race, while Atylar (owned by M. Meretnyyazov) took the top spot in the 1,400-meter category. The longest race of the day, spanning 1,800 meters, was won by the black horse Soverdagy, owned by A. Myratberdiyev.

The season’s opening ceremony concluded with the awarding of traditional prizes and gifts to the winners, celebrating the dedication of the trainers and the skill of the jockeys. This event not only highlights the athletic prowess of the "heavenly horses" but also reinforces the deep cultural heritage of horse breeding in Turkmenistan. As the spring season continues, these races will remain a central point of national pride and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Akhal-Teke breed.