The world of the Arabian horse and particularly the South East Arabian Horse Group will be deeply saddened to hear of the death of Freddie Smith, respected breeder, handler and judge of Arabians.  Freddie’s trademark was his always cheerful and cheeky disposition; he was always fun to be around.
For Freddie and his wife, Joyce, it was love at first sight when they met at a New Years Eve party. They married on 20th September 1952 and were always inseparable.  Their final farewell took place on their 54th Wedding Anniversary.
Freddie was a twin, being the younger brother of John by 20 minutes. Freddie and Joyce did not have any children as such, what they did have was a family of Arabian horses.  They formed the Impney Arabian Stud at the  The Hyde, Handcross in Sussex.   Freddie was a very successful breeder and handler of top class Arabians for many years. 

Freddie and Joyce with Briery Pepsi-cola, Impey Debutante and Impney Debonair

Freddie and Joyce’s first acquisition was the Part Bred Arab colt Briery Peskipop from Briery Close Stud.  So pleased were they both with this purchase, they returned for his full sister Briery Pepsi-cola, pictured here with Impey Debutante and Impney Debonair both by Ringing Gold the first stallion to stand at Impney.  Ringing Gold lived with Freddie and Joyce for seven years before being exported to Australia.  The Impney Stud foundation mare was Risanira who had five daughters.  Most notably of these was Royal Destiny who bred the famous Star of Destiny by Grojec.

Crystal King (Indian King x Crystal Clear)

Freddie and Joyce later purchased the very successful stallion Crystal King (Indian King x Crystal Clear) who sired the Howard-Price’s Crystal Magician out of Sheer Magic.  Crystal Magician him self a multi champion in-hand and under saddle went on to found the dynasty at Cullinghurst Stud.  Other notable Crystal King off-spring are Carrick Crystif and Grand Duke both of which excelled under saddle.

Sheer Magic (Scindian Magic x Mafari)

Freddie showed the fantastic mare Sheer Magic (Scindian Magic x Mafari) throughout her career in England, she was British National Champion on several occasions, before being exported to Australia.  Freddie’s special favourite of recent years was Kestrelita, (Kestral x Risanita) who is still alive today and will greatly miss her “Dad”.
One of the highlights of Freddie’s career has to be the invitation to Buckingham Palace.  Several Arab Sheiks were visiting in England and H.M. the Queen was to entertain them with a parade of Arabian horses.  Freddie accompanied the beautiful mare Star of Destiny to London to meet the Queen.

Freddie with Star of Destiny and Rissalita

The years of running up horses on uneven ground took its toll; and Freddie began to experience problems with his hips.  He under went hip replacement operations which gave him a new lease of life.  Some members may recall line dancing at our Christmas Party where Freddie knew all the moves and danced us all off the floor.
Freddie missed exhibiting and handling the horses and being in the show ring.  It was therefore a very natural progression to become a respected judge of Arabian horses, well known for his integrity.  In fact Freddie judged at Edenbridge & Oxted Show on August Bank Holiday only a short time before he died.