BreyerFest 2022 Special Run Overview

So for this post, I'd like to chat about the Special Run releases for BreyerFest this year. These are the models available in-person only to attendees with VIP and All-Access tickers, each of which allows the ticket holder to purchase up to two. This year, there are 10 Special Run models, which is up one from the last two years. The piece counts have also been upped across the board. It's clear Breyer is expecting a large crowd in Kentucky this year. If not, I'm hoping they'll offer the extras to the online only attendees (which, the issue of Special Runs and online attendees is a topic for another post). So, without further ado, the BreyerFest 2022 Special Run lineup: 

Ländler; 2,300 made

Breyer's first announced release was Ländler, a rose gray on the Totilas mold. To me, this was a strong start, but I conga Totilas and am a sucker for a nice rose gray. He kind of reminds me of Sanibel, the 2018 Web Special on Huck, and that's a good thing! 

Elbe and Spree; 2,200 made

The next special run announced was Elbe and Spree, the mare and foal set, on Breyer's new Stock Horse Mare and Foal molds. This pair is done in a delightful bay paint color. The color looks very nice on the mold, and I actually might like it better than the roan and chestnut they were respectively done in for their Premier Club release.

Stein; 2,300 made

Breyer's next Special Run announcement caused quite a stir - Stein on the Mustang Stallion (Fireheart) mold in a bold grullo. The Fireheart mold has been popular since its release last year, and as far as I can tell, Stein is the most popular of the Special Run releases this year among the hobby. The Fireheart mold isn't quite my thing (but who knows, I haven't had the chance to see it in person yet), but I'm glad for everyone who loves it. 

Rotating Draft Surprise; 7,500 pieces total

Breyer then announced the return of a fan-favorite Special Run - the Gambler's Choice. This year, the theme is the Rotating Draft Surprise. Whether that is a clue as to the mold or if it's a fake-out like last year's Seven Arts Surprise remains to be seen. 

Breyer Bears; 1,600 sets of three

There's always an Animal mold in the Special Run lineup, and this year is no exception. Breyer took inspiration from the German Haribo gummy bears for their Breyer Bears, a set of three clearware Bear Cubs. This set will also be scented and in custom packaging. Like Stein, this set isn't quite for me, but I'm sure the Wildlife collectors are thrilled to see them (and candy enthusiasts as well!) 

Marzipan; 2,200 made

Breyer loves a nice stock horse, and at least one always seems to find its way into the Special Run lineup no matter the theme. This year, Breyer announced a gorgeous palomino paint on the Gaming Stock Horse (Wyatt) mold named Marzipan as a Special Run. Marzipan was another one who I immediately liked, and he's definitely going to be on my list for BreyerFest this year. He may not be the most popular in the hobby, but that is just fine by me! 

Franz; 2,000 made

Like the Gambler's Choice and the Animal mold, there is usually a Decorator in the Special Run lineup. This year's is Franz, a blue Spirit inspired by the works of German artist Franz Marc. The hobby seems to be somewhat iffy on him, and though he's another one who is not for me, I appreciate how well Breyer executed Marc's art with him. 

Brahms; 2,200 made

The next Special Run revealed was a flashy leopard on the Big Ben mold named Brahms. I love when Breyer puts modern colors on older molds (not that Big Ben is an old mold! He's just not as modern) and Big Ben wears this color so well. While he may not be one of my top picks from the Special Run lineup this year, I certainly won't be disappointed if I come home from BreyerFest with this spotty fellow. 

Rapunzel; 2,400 made

The final Special Run release felt like it was made to directly target me. She's a red roan on the new Astrid mold named Rapunzel. I love fairytales, and Rapunzel is one of my favorites. Also Tangled is my favorite modern Disney movie. Added to that, Astrid is one of my favorite molds and boom! This pony was made just for me. I love her new mane, the little braid is the cutest. Rapunzel is definitely my top Special Run pick this year. 

Overall, my top two picks bookended the Special Run lineup - Ländler and Rapunzel. I think the whole lineup is strong this year, even if they aren't all to my personal taste.