AL AZIRAH -2025 WAHO Trophy Winner – Switzerland

AL AZIRAH, Grey mare, 2011 (L.A. Tamerlan / Al Aisha) Breeder: D. Kottmann. Owner: Vanessa Herzig. Strain: Kehailet Ajuz (Jamila, 1927)

The 2025 WAHO Trophy for Switzerland was awarded to the mare Al Azirah.

Citation from owner Vanessa Herzig:

In 2009, a spontaneous idea from Doris Kottmann and I gave rise to a big dream: to own a horse from the dam line of Al Aisha and Al Amira, whom I had admired for years. Whilst searching for the right stallion, I came across the fascinating L.A. Tamerlan in Dompierre, Vaud – the decision was made instantly.

On 13 May 2011, Al Azirah was born, with an impressive pedigree that combines elegance and a passion for performance. After her first few months with her dam in Schöftland, she was allowed to spend her youth on various pastures before moving to a yard in Wengi to join her best friend, Monolito.

In a quiet open stable, she was able to get to learn everything without pressure: the saddle, bridle, long trail rides and the trust to her rider.

Once four years old, she was ready for more. In 2015 she completed her first endurance ride. Later also 35 km rides in Germany and from 2018 onwards she regularly secured places in the top ten. She also entered different leisure rides and showed her will to please very impressively in groundwork exercises.

Moments with our little son Michael, standing proudly by her side, remain very cherished. In 2024 she achieved the Novice Endurance qualification but was unfortunately injured shortly afterwards – she has now gathered almost 1,400 kilometres in endurance riding and still displays an unbroken zest for life.

We hope to be able to enter her in an endurance ride again in 2026. At 14 years old, Al Azirah is a strong-willed, sensitive and loyal soul – and a true professional at every competition. Here’s to many more years together!