Arko III

Biography

Arko III A proven performance sire delivering legacy, reliability, and elite results Arko III stands among the most influential stallions of the modern sport horse era, uniting historic bloodlines with a competition record that few horses in the world have ever matched. By the legendary Argentinus, Champion Oldenburg and Hanoverian Stallion of the Year 2005, and out of the exceptional mare Unika, Arko III offers breeders pedigree depth, proven performance, and enduring genetic strength. Unika herself was ranked the number one showjumper in Europe for five consecutive years and twice crowned best in the world. The potency of this dam line is further reinforced by Unika’s sire Beach Boy, responsible for 27 approved stallions and over 700 international competition horses. The family also produced Arko ESI, full brother to Arko III, who set a German auction record foal price of €130,000. This is a lineage built on excellence, consistency, and global demand. Competition Greatness That Defined a Generation Arko III’s own career places him firmly in the history books. With career earnings exceeding £1 million, he was ranked number one horse in Europe for three consecutive years, 2004, 2005, and 2006. His dominance at five star level, Olympic representation, and championship performances established him as one of the most reliable and formidable Grand Prix horses of his time. His achievements were recognised with lifetime membership of the BSJA, an honour awarded to no other horse. A Sire of Elite Showjumpers As a breeding stallion, Arko III continues to shape the top of the sport. His offspring are renowned for their scope, power, carefulness, and genuine desire to perform. Among his most famous sons is Argento, partnered with John Whitaker, winner of multiple five star Grand Prix around the world and now an influential sire in his own right. Championship performers such as SFS Aristio, along with 1.60m competitors including Alan 111 Z, Vendome d’Ick, and Kosmo van Hof ter Boone, further confirm Arko’s consistency in producing horses capable of reaching the highest level. For showjumping breeders seeking proven genetics that reliably deliver elite results, Arko III remains a benchmark stallion. Eventing Versatility with Proven Results Beyond the showjumping arena, Arko III is increasingly recognised for his value to eventing breeders. His offspring demonstrate stamina, bravery, and movement alongside jumping power. Elipso de la Vigne, ridden by Sébastien Cavaillon, has competed successfully at CCI4* level at Saumur, Bramham, and Blenheim, proving that Arko’s genetics translate seamlessly to eventing’s toughest tests. This versatility makes him an exceptional option for breeders aiming to produce modern international event horses with scope and durability. A Gold Standard for Breeders Decades of results, across disciplines and continents, have cemented Arko III’s reputation as a true breeding legend. He passes on athleticism, rideability, soundness, and a competitive mindset that riders value and buyers trust. For breeders focused on performance, reliability, and long term legacy, Arko III continues to represent one of the safest and strongest choices in modern sport horse breeding.