Fact box

World's toughest horses

Population: There are about 6,600 Akhal-Tekes in the world, mostly in Turkmenistan and Russia, although they are also found throughout Europe and North America, according to a report from the World Akhal-Teke Organization in 2012.

Appearance: The Akhal-Teke typically stands between 147 and 163 cm. Animals with a golden buckskin or palomino color are prized. The horses have elegant figures, including high heads, thin necks and slender legs. They are light on their feet in running.