AHSA.asn.au
Ronald Philip OAM
“Ron”
Aged 92 years
18/10/1931 – 3/6/2024
Passed away peacefully at home.
Nothing could probably better sum up the legacy left by Ron Males than this quote.
Ron, together with wife Val, founded Ralvon Stud in 1954. A stud whose hoofprints have left an indelible print in the Arabian community worldwide.
It’s hard to know where to begin, and as I write this, on a personal level, the stories, memories and tears come flooding through my mind and down my cheeks – as I’m sure they do for many.
Ron forged so many new pathways for Arabian lovers, breeders and owners – Ralvon mares and stallions became the cornerstone of many breeding programmes, both in Australia and worldwide.
In 1966, Ron, together with wife Val, were instrumental in planning and organising the first Tom Quilty 100 mile Endurance ride, and then, he was also instrumental in the foundation of the Australian Endurance Riders Association in 1967.
Ron, during his endurance career, claimed 21 Qulity buckles – he was the first to gain his 1000 mile buckle (10 completions) without a single vet out – a record in itself.
In 1969, a chestnut colt was born on Ron’s birthday – this colt. Ralvon Pilgrim, (Rikham x Trix Silver), in 1977 went on to become the first International Arabian Champion Stallion when taken to the UK to be shown. Prior to his World Championship win, he had amassed an outstanding show record in Australia. His progeny today span the globe.
A roll call of Ralvon winners, both here and overseas springs to mind – Ralvon Elijah, Ralvon Nazarene, Ralvon Job, Ralvon Siver Jubilee, Ralvon Royal Jubilee – and the list goes on.
Always prepared to take a risk, Ron (and Val) were instrumental in importing new bloodlines to Australia with the US Egyptian stallion, The Puritan and the Polish stallion, Milex.
Ron, again, forged a new pathway for Australian Arabians with his relationship with Sheik Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan in the UAE with the export of the first endurance horses, among them the stallion, Palexis (Milex x Promissa). Others have since followed with Australian endurance horses now being recognised as some of the best in the world.
Aside from his vast contributions to the Australian and worldwide Arabian industry was a man who will also be remembered for many other attributes.
Ron was a friend to many, a mentor to more. Always prepared to listen and never judgemental. His family meant the world to him. His friendship circle was diverse and widespread. He had a dry and wicked sense of humour, and at times could also be a ‘bit of a larrikin’ as those of us privileged to travel to interstate Quilties with him can attest.
He was also a wonderful storyteller.
He was a consummate horseman – the like of which is rarely seen, and a breeder, together with wife Val, of excellence.
He will be very sadly missed, and I’m sure all in the Arabian community send heartfelt condolences to Val, and his children, Kerry, Phillip and Peter, together with their partners, and Ron’s extended family of grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.
I am proud to have been able to call him a friend of over 40 years standing, and I know that there are so many in our Arabian community who share that honour as well – his passing marks the loss of an Arabian icon.
RIP Ron.
Helen Rutland
Chair
AHSA
https://www.ahsa.asn.au/
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