Kantemirov

a family of Soviet Ossetian circus artists; trick horsemen.

Alibek Tuzarovich Kantemirov (born May 16, 1882; People’s Artist of the RSFSR since 1966) was a jockey in equestrian competitions from 1902 to 1907. In 1907 he began performing in the circus as a solo horseman. In 1924 he created the Ali-Bek Caucasian Trick Horsemen group. Kantemirov added new devices to the art of circus trick riding. The group’s repertoire includes equestrian games, elements of competition, and complicated stunts. The group includes Alibek Tuzarovich’s sons Khasanbek (born Dec. 14, 1924; People’s Artist of the Severnaia Osetiia ASSR [1960], member of the CPSU since 1945), Irbek (born June 2, 1928; Honored Artist of the RSFSR [I960], member of the CPSU since 1956), and Mukhtarbek (born Feb. 18, 1934; Honored Artist of the Severnaia Osetiia ASSR [I960]). Alibek Tuzarovich has trained a number of riders, including the famous trick horseman M. N. Tuganov. Artists from the Kantemirov group have frequently toured abroad. Alibek Tuzarovich Kantemirov has been awarded the Order of Lenin, two other orders, and a medal.