articles about equestrian heritage in Portugal and Spain – horses, riding, heritage sites, castles, palaces and history

Wild West Collection By Silvia T

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Text by Silvia Teixeira

Forwarded by Teresa Burton

Model Babette    Equine model Quebec owned by Diana Bushard

Photography – ABR Fotos

 

For this collection, I’m exploring USA’s Old West fashion and combining some of its elements and visuals with some traits of the Portuguese costumes.

The burgundy skirt is made of Burel which is a traditional artisanal fabric, made of wool of Serra da Estrela Sheep. It is very warm and water resistant and is usually used to make the traditional Capote Alentejano, as seen in Golegã. It is a split skirt that can be turned into chaps creating a “cowgirl” like silhouette. The pockets were inspired by the traditional Viana pocket

I also included the amazing and unique piece of Galician artisanal jewellery custom made by my talented friend Susi Gesto.

Look 2

The tweed flared skirt is very wide and works like a crossed skirt, giving a more blasé and country look. It is reversible and it can also be worn as a wrap on a winter day. The (Heritage (?)) belt is one of a series of three and a Lusitano Heritage exclusive. It’s made with one of the elements of the traditional Portuguese harnesses and adds character to the look.

For the blouses, very comfortable fabrics such as cotton and viscose (a smooth material similar to silk but made from cellulose) add to the intended look and silhouette.

These are the first garments of the Western collection. I will continue to explore and bring some more ideas to life. Stay tuned!

VIEW THE COLLECTION

Mindfulness – Be More Present with Your Horse

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BE A MORE MINDFUL EQUESTRIAN

A seemingly neglected yet important key step in achieving a better life is to become aware of and harness the beauty and value that the present moment holds. 

Image of Nuno Cavaco by Teresa Burton

Although Equestrian Mindfulness is not confined to the classical equestrian teachings  It is something that the Great masters avocated as essential in the art of riding.  Without a mindfulness practice how can you really achieve the finest dance with your equine partner. How can you explore and know the best ways to communicate with each other.

Mindfulness is at the heart of achieving lightness & harmony with your horse.

 

Whether in the arena, on a trail, or grooming, being present keeps you connected to your horse, and safe. But how do we go about staying more in the present moment.

Living in the present moment is not easy to achieve over night, especially if we have spent years/decades switching between being preoccupied in past regrets, stresses and or worries about the future. It requires commitment to change and celebrationing your successes.

The good news is all is not lost – it begins when you make the commitment to change.

Make it you mission to show up fully for you and your horse !

 

Image by Lena Saugen Coudelaria Vila Vicosa

 

By implimenting tiny daily steps you will certainly transform, and ultimately it will benefit every area of your life. Gaining mastery of how to be more in the present moment you can open the doors to a happier and freer way of life.  It liberates us to live more joyfully.

The key is not expect too much too soon be kind to yourself and celebrate each step.

Strategies to Build a Mindful Daily Practise.

Since we cannot expect to change overnight we need to decide on a daily practise that enables us to develop the skills to be present and aware when we are not.

Here are some techniques you can consider to help you in your transformation.  Don´t try to impliment everything, especially all at once. The idea is to choose one or two strategies that resonate with you. Then commit to starting with just a few minutes everyday.

Make it achieveable.  5 minutes first thing in the morning and last thing at night can bring about huge steps if maintained.

Most of these practises cost nothing apart from your time. The benefits are priceless

Breath Work

Breathing It is something so fundamental to our well being and actually being alive. Yet it is shocking just how few people are actually breathing correctly. Breathing incorrectly is linked to so many physical and mental health problems and yet it is still taken for granted by many as not particularly important.

You can transform your health and wellbeing by simply by breathing better.

These days there is plenty of excellent science research showing the benefits of breathing correctly.  Become aware of how you breath and consider adopting some breathing exercises.

The benefits include:
  • Increases feeling of comfort,  calm
  • Increases Relaxation
  • Increases overall wellbeing and postive self esteem
  • Increases alertness and energy
  • Boosts Immunity
  • Decreases stress and anxiety
  • Lowers blood pressure
  • Stengthens lungs
  • Releases Toxins
  • Improves Sleep
  • Reduces Depression
  • Makes you more present, creative and positive

With all these advantages how you anyone not want to know how the breath better and naturally improve well being and vitality.

BOX BREATHING

A simple box breathing technique practised by people all over the world even the military forces make a huge difference in calming down and becomming more focussed.

How to box breath
  1. Step 1: Breathe in, counting to four slowly. Feel the air enter your lungs.
  2. Step 2: Hold your breath for 4 seconds. Try to avoid inhaling or exhaling for 4 seconds.
  3. Step 3: Slowly exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds.
  4. Step 4: Repeat steps 1 to 3 until you feel re-centered.

There are numerous teachers, websites, apps and youtube teachers that you can research to find the best practise for you. Here are a few suggestions,  I personally love the Wim Hof Method. However there are many more –

www.SomaBreath.com

The Wim Hof Method – Breathwork. He has written 2 excellent books.

James Nestor´s book Breath is brilliant and he now has a breathwork course with BBC Maestro

Meditation

Like breathwork the benefits of meditation are not a new discovery in fact meditation has been part of ancient cultures all around the world for centuries.  The benefits are much the same as those listed for breathwork. Science is gaining more and more interest in meditation which is really helpful. Now many studies have been published to back up the benefical claims.

There is the research with Dr Joe Dispenza who has written several amazing books.  There are many really brilliant meditations on his website.

You don´t have to sit for hours everyday meditating, just a regualr short daily practise will make all the difference.  Mornings and evenings are the best times but if that doesn´t work for you find moments during the day. You can find some much infomation about different meditation techniques. Here are a few links that you could look at –

Gaia – Many Meditation Courses

Mind Valley. Amazing website filled with personal develop leaders, courses

APPS – Headspace Meditation app, Calm app, Healthy Mind, Smiling Mind to name but a few.

PODCASTS – Check out the fantastic Dr Rangan Chatterjee He teaches simple effective steps to changing your life, he interviews fastinating people on all aspects of wellbeing and lifestyle.  He has also written several really down to earth helpful books.

Image of Anton Walliser by Lena Saugenh

 

THE POWER OF NOW

The Power of Now is a book witten by Eckhart Tolle and definitely worth a read or you can listen to it on audible.

An excellent technique for getting into the moment throughout the day is whenever you remember stop. Focus on an object – a flower, your horse, the back of your hands, the fabric of your jacket, a tree, the sky anything.  Look at it, take in everything – the colours, texture, the way the light falls on it, the sound, the smell. Really study it, keep your attention there for 20 seconds gradually build up to  a minute or more.

Take in every detail. Doing this brings you into the present moment.

Developing Presence on your Horse

A technique I personally love when I am riding to improve our connection.  When I am in a calm quiet environment and my horse is relaxed  I let the reins drop to the neck so I am just on the rein buckle.  We walk around the arena like this.  Then I simply imagine where I want to go and visualise turning onto the centre line or into a circle.

There is a great saying – `where your attention goes your energy flows´

This literally means that even if you are not aware when you direct your attention your energy will follow and your body will move ever so subtly that way. So imagine you focus on the centre line, your energy will direct that way and your horse will feel it however slight.  He will follow.

The more you practise this with your horse the greater connection and communication you will achieve together.  Of course only practise this when you are in a situation safe for you and others. Give it a go I would love to know how it works for you.

Screen Time verses Nature Time

 

Image at Emergasol Lusitanos by Lena Saugen

There is no doubt that mobiles have become a hugely dominant factor in our lives.  Stats are showing shocking results of the amount of times per day we look at our phones and scroll through social media. Each time we do this there is an energetic cost. Mobile phones are fantastic assets to our lives as long as they are not comprising positive healthy communication with others and our animals.

Try leaving your phone in your bag when you are with your horses.  Give them your undivided attention you will both benefit from this.

Journaling

Writing in a daily journal can be very empowering.  It helps to release things stuck in your mind, unravel problems you are repeating over and over.  It is can also enable you to discover what your goals are and ideas to achieve them.

It can be a pathway to becoming more self aware and confident.  Discover goals and dreams. You can also workout problems in relations with others for instance if you are trying to resolve some bad feelings, upset and conflict with another.

Try writing down all the things you love or like aboit them, all the great things they have done, write what you are grateful for about them.  This process will help you to release and forgive and love.

If you think daily journaling is for you make it special buy a really nice book and pen.  Choose a great place to do it and allow yourself to just flow without censor or limitations.  This is your licence to be totally creative, inspired and emotionally releasing.

Gratitude

It seems like something silly to say that gratitude will put you in the present moment and how does it benefit us.  Well there are now studies showing the power of having a gratitude practise is transformative. How does it work?

What is Gratitude – Its Meaning & Definition

Gratitude is an emotion similar to appreciation. The American Psychological Association (n.d.) more specifically defines this phenomenon as a sense of happiness and thankfulness in response to a fortunate happenstance or tangible gift.

Gratitude is both a state and a trait (Jans-Beken et al., 2020). Better explained, one can experience gratitude for someone or something at a certain moment in time, and someone experience gratitude more long-term as a positive character trait.

First comes the acknowledgment of goodness in one’s life. In a state of gratitude, we say yes to life. We affirm that, all in all, life is good and has elements that make it worth living. The acknowledgment that we have received something gratifies us, both by its presence and by the effort the giver put into choosing it.

Second, gratitude is recognizing that sources of this goodness lie outside the self. One can be grateful to our creator, other people, animals, and the world, but not to oneself. At this stage, we recognize the goodness in our lives and who to thank for it.

The two stages of gratitude comprise the recognition of the goodness in our lives and then how this goodness came to us. Through this process, we recognize the fortune of everything that improves our lives and ourselves.

Further, gratitude can be considered either a dispositional trait or a state of being.

As a trait, an individual practices gratitude as part of their daily life (McCullough et al., 2002), and it is considered a character strength. It is important to remember that gratitude is a strength that can be enhanced with awareness and practice.

When a person experiences the emotion from someone expressing gratitude for them, it is referred to as a state (Watkins et al., 2009).

Source www.positivepsychology.com According to Dr. Robert Emmons, the feeling of gratitude involves two stages (Emmons & McCullough, 2003)

Find ways to give gratitude everyday to grow your inner strength and wellbeing.

Visualisation

There is enormous value in spending time appreciating and enjoying the present moment, you can also add to your happiness by visualising your future self.

Develop and focus on the feelings associated with the successful completion of your goals and creating the outcome you most desire. Think about the traits you’ll exhibit when you have the life you choose to create. Now bring those traits into your present being.

This is where you can be proud of the steps you’ve taken so far, because what you’re learning now shapes your future, so approach each day filled with the positive intention to be happy that you are where you are, doing what you can to create the future, life and version of yourself you want and express gratitude that you can.

Tell your horse how grateful you are to have him or her in your life

Image by Lena Saugen at Coudelaria Vila Vicosa and Ducal Palace.

 

Discovering your Superpower

As you develop your mindfulness prowess, you will recognize your ability to stay in tune with your horse. Also, accept your mistakes and where your weaknesses are without beating yourself up. Allowing growth and mastery of skills and ultimately increasing your overall confidence.

Mindful state of awareness as an equestrian:
  • Have a deeper connection with our horse
  • be more in tune with your emotions and those of your horse
  • Greater curiosity and flexibility when learning new skills
  • Less stress and tension which is reflected in your body and translated to your horse who feels tension
  • Greater patience especially when learing new things
  • Greater ability to feel your horse´s movement and reactions
  • Be more self-caring and caring towards others
  • Improved problem solving
  • Becoming more creative
  • Feeling happier and more alive

 

Be Good to Yourself, Be Vibrant and Be in the Generous Present Moment

text by Teresa Burton

Header Image at Emergasol Stud Farm taken by Lena Saugen

RIDE WITH US – CLASSICAL DRESSAGE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alentejo Ranch Holidays now Booking

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Favouring Traditional Methods over Modern Machinery

 

Text by Teresa Burton  Photography by ABR fotografias

Last year we made a visit to the stunning farms  of the Tavares Moreira family, located in the Alentejo close to the Spainish Border.

 

 

Bernardo Tavares Moreira with his wife Rita Torres Moreira and daughter Maria Francisca Torres Moreira.

The farms are called Herdade da Carapuςa and Herdade D´agosto

During our visit we were inspired to work with the family to open up an opportunity for people to have holidays on the farms. To provide a Traditional Portuguese Farm experience learning about the horses and cattle. Sadly like so many heritage activities  many farms have turned away from using the horses to work with the cattle in favour of tractors and quads which they think are quicker and cheaper.  However there are those that would disagree with this and highly value the more traditional methods. One of these people is Bernardo Tavares Moreira.

Bernardo Tavares Moreira

Since a very young age Bernardo has always been passionate about the traditional methods and rural life.  Growing up in Lisbon he dreamed to be on the farm. A dream that never left him until finally he moved to the Alentejo to spend his days working with the cattle and the Lusitano Horses they bred. He continues to this day working the farm in the traditional way.  Although of course, from time to tme he uses tractors and quads, almost always he aims to be managing the farm from the back of a lusitano. 

Alentejana Cattle

The family are breeding pure bred Alentejana cattle. This is a Portuguese breed, also known as Transtagan.  The breed orginates from the Alentejo region and was used for agricultural work. They are quite similar to the Spanish Retinta Breed.

These gentle animals are a medium build with a golden red colour.  The horns are large and pointed forward with upturned tips. The hind legs very muscular and strong and the shoulders long and broad.  They are considered rustic, energetic animals and they really suit the beautiful Alentejo landscape.

For centuries they were the most important working breed in the plains.  However, from the mid 1900´s the mechanisation of agricultural work slowly took over.  So the need for them to work the land deminished and they became used primarly for meat. The flavor of the meat is intense and it is very tender. However they didn´t produce enough meat so crossing them with other breeds such as Charolias and Limozines is done yielding more meat on each animal.  With this change the pure genetics of the breed started to become comprised.

Because of this the studbook of the Alentejana was established in 1970.  Breeders of this wonderful native breed began to work to limit genetic regression. National and community programmes set up to promote conversation and sustainable use of animal genetic resources.

Alenetejana Bull

Bernardo and his family continue this in their breeding programmes.  They have 3 cattle herds on the farms.  They don´t sell pure bred Alentejana cattle simply select the females to different herds according to their quality and genetics. The highest quality retained to breed pure bred cattle and the others crossed bred with Limousin and Charolias bulls for meat cattle.  The cows and bulls are simply stunning.

The cattle are able to graze in expansive pasture lands of rolling hills dotted with cork oaks trees providing plenty of shade in the hot summers. It makes for quite a sight to visit these beautiful herds.

Landscape of rolling hills and cork oak trees

The Farm´s Lusitano Horses

The Lusitanos mares

The stud farm has a small herd of quality Lusitano mares with old bloodlines suitable for bull fighting, working equitation and nowadays dressage.  The horse have a lot of Veiga influence and recently with a dressage focus while maintaining the Baroque the mares have been put to the Olympic/GP stallion Forgoso. The horses are selected and some sold Internationally and the others retained on the farm.

The stud name is – Manuel Francisco de Moura Tavares Herdeiros  (Manuel Tavares Herdeiros)

Bernardo and Rita

Bernardo breeds and trains all his horses which are a mix or pure bred Lusitanos and Luso/Arabs. Favouring the Vaqueira / Garrochista style and he has adopted many of the techniques.

Particularly the use the Garrocha that is now seen in part of the working equitation competition.

The working horses are all highly trained and have many advanced exercises that they need to quickly react and manuveur during work.  Exercises such as canter pirouettes, lateral movements, canter changes are all required in the work.

His work is very skilled and simpatic and it includes everything from simply moving cattle from one pasture to another to separating animals for vacinations etc.  From horse back it is much less stressful for the cattle, they comply easily because they totally accept the horses as their managers .

There is a special bond between the Lusitanos and the cattle.

 

The Family

This is all made all the more special as the whole family are in someway involved. Everyone brings so much creativity to the table. Bernardo´s wife Rita Torres Moreira is a nutritionist and on weekends she joins Bernardo along with their son and daughter to ride the horses and help with the cattle. Rita and their daughter Francisca are so skilled on their Lusitanos I really enjoyed watching them effortlessly manoeuvre the cows into pens for vacninating. carefully parting the calves so they didn´t get injured and minimising any stress in the process.

Rita´s brother is Rodrigo Torres one of Portugal most outstanding Olympic Riders.

Rita Torres Moreira

Maria Francisca Torres Moreira

Ana Tavares Moreira the owner of Carapura Farm has converted the old hay and animal barns into the most fabulous accomodations – stylish, creative, well appointed and peaceful.  Surrounded by extreaordinary views in all directions you cannot help but love staying there.

Maria Claudia Sampaio Soares – Bernardo´s Aunt is a gifted potter. She has a pottery locally and provides classes for those interested to try it out.  You can also order things to be made.  We are have several items made by Claudia.  Claudia owns Herdade Dagosto and breeds Lusitanos.

Cláudia Sampaio Soares

THE OPPORTUNITY

 

We are so happy that now we can offer you the chance to stay on these farm and learn with Bernardo a little about his life, how the horses are trained and worked with the cattle. It is available to up to 4 people per week.  We only offer to small groups per week to ensure you have plenty of opportunity for individual tuition and an immersive experience.

Bernardo will provide all the training during your stay and his gentle confident manner will guide you through a remarkable experince of the working horses and all they need to do their job effortlessly.

FIND OUT MORE

 

Bernardo and Francisca

Rita with the cattle

INTERESTED IN HAVING A HOLIDAY ? 

WANT TO KNOW MORE ?

 

 

2023 National Horse Fair in Golegã

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Golegã National Horse Fair is almost upon us. 

 

It’s an opportunity like no other to emmerse yourself in an equestrian feast morning to night.

With the run up to fair this week is a frenzy of activity for those going with their Lusitanos. Many breeders take multiple horses some as many as 20 animals.  So good preparation is is paramount. The horses are inpecability turnouts everyday washed and braided. Costumes, traditional saddlery clean.

Golegã National Horse Fair  3rd – 12th November  2023

 

Now acclaimed as one of the World´s most prestigeous equestrian event. It is a festival that still embodies Portuguese Equestrian Heritage seemlessly blended with modern equestrian sport.  It is an opportunity like no other to emmerse yourself into an equestrian feast morning to night.

 

 

If you are a regular visitor or going for the first time it is lovely to find out a little bit more about this the fair came about –

 

There is a fasinating history about the fair which was orginally called Feira de São Martinho.

 

Always Held In November

The Fair is held at the beginning of November over a 10-day period. The dates must include the most important day, 11th November, which is the Dia de São Martinho (the Feast of Saint Martin). On this day the people eat roasted chestnuts and drink new wine for Magusto – Magusto is the celebration of tasting the news wines or Agua Pe and roasting chestnuts.  You can read the full history of this remarkable fair here.

 

LUSITANOS CENTRE STAGE

 

Golegã is considered by many to be the ultimate event to see Lusitanos everything from the young rising stars to established International competition horses. There are a multitude of shows and classes over the 10 days where you can really experience the special qualities of this versatile horse.

The versatility of the Lusitano breed is so elegantly expressed in the events held over the fair –  You will be Captivated!

It is prudent to plan you time to ensure you seize the opportunity to see as many of the events as possible. There is an amount of walking between locations so give yourself time for this in your planning. For the full program go to the official Golegã Page

We would be delighted to meet you at the fair and share sometime with you visiting horses or just a chat over a coffee.  Also during your stay you are welcome to visit us at our yard close to Lisbon airport take some classical dressage lessons or try our Lusitanos for sale.

You can send us a whatsapp message on 00 351 913 175 772 to arrange a get together either in Golega or at our yard.

 

 

 

 

Text by Teresa Burton. Images by Lena Saugen Photography

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hand Stitched Saddlery – an ART rarely seen today

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Article written by Teresa Burton

Image by Lena Saugen – Hand stitched bridle placing the metal ornaments

 

 

The saddle craftsman takes great care with every stitch, responding to the

subtle variations in the leather.

 

 

It’s a meditative act in a world that no longer values such things. Hand sewing sacrifices speed for the sake of quality. It is time-consuming, that’s part of its charm.

Sadly, with the modern desire to have everything immediately, handmade saddlery is becoming harder to find. There are very few people now that can make a living in this heritage art and sadly even less interested to learn the trade.
The hand maker is a passionate soul who creates every piece right from the moment he or she chooses the materials, cuts the shapes and lovingly hand stitches each piece. This takes time and so limits the maker to how many products they can produce in a month. They need to be fairly rewarded for the beautiful and meticulous work they do.

Those that are prepared to wait and can afford the products are in for a treat, you will own a piece of functional art.

 

Image by Teresa Burton – Hand saddle stitched brow band.

 

What makes Hand Stitching special?

 

Hand stitching compared to machine stitches is very different. Hand stitching is generally much stronger. In fact the leather is more likely to give way sooner than the stitching. Why? Because when you use a machine, that line of stitching requires two separate threads that lock around each other in what is known as a “locking stitch”. Whereas, a hand-stitched line uses a single thread with needles on either end. The thread runs back and forth on either side of the leather in what is called a “saddle stitch” .

The saddle stitch seam is considered an indestructible seam

 

Image by Lena Saugen – Jose de Sousa grandson of the famous Jose Victorino

 

This seam was designed more than a century ago by craftsmen saddlers and harnessers  to make coupling parts for working horses – saddle, equestrian, horse-drawn carriages etc. Also the parts of leather heavily subjected to wear (handles, belts, etc.). They used it to stitch luxury leather goods such as luggage.

Goyard, Dior,  Hermes, Chanel or  Louis Vuitton valued hand-stitching and thats why their products have premium prices. Understanding the difference in the stitching is what makes it easy to recognise fake articles. However, sadly today even in these French luxury houses 99% of the stitching is done by machines.

If a thread were to snap on a piece that sewn on a sewing machine, the entire line of thread could potentially unravel allowing the two pieces of leather to separate. However, in a hand-stitched item, the thread will not unravel and the leather pieces will not separate from each other. More importantly, it’s easier to repair the line of stitching.

Image by Lena Saugen – The saddle stitch method

 

How to recognise the differences

 

It is important to recognise that craftmen and artists can also work their magic with sewing machines and this is certainly not about belittling the sewing machine. I am simply casting some light on a craft that is losing traction in the modern world.

The main aesthetic differences to recognize are:

  • The reverse side, is less “beautiful” on a machine seam.
    The regularity of the machine against the charm of a handmade product.
    The direction of inclination  of the thread on the face and the reverse.
  • On the machine-seamed side: the inclination goes upwards
  • On the hand-seamed side: the inclination is downwards

In hand stitching the maker can use a larger thread thickness and for really wide threads the holes are punched and they can achieve or more rugged look if required. Some leather crafters use smaller holes on their chisels or pierce the leather using an awl, then use a much finer thread to give their items a more sophisticated look.

The method and tools

 

Image by Lena Saugen – Vintage tools for leather work over 100 years old and still in use-

 

Hand stitching saddle stitch (and tied saddle stitch) must be strong, flexible, waterproof and pretty because it is a decorative element in its own right. The sewing is done by hand without mechanized means. The tools are rudimentary, many over 100 years old, and require perfect mastery.
Each tool is a work of art in its own right and bares the loving wear of countless hours working the leather peices in the craftmans hands. A craftman´s tool kit consists of :

  • A sewing clip (to hold the piece and leave your hands free)
    A wheel or claw to strike (to mark the location of each point)
    An awl (tool for perforating leather)
    A linen thread
    Beeswax
    Two needles

 

Image by Lena Saugen – Jose de Sousa

 

The particularity of the saddle stitch is to sew with a thread and two needles. In order to be able to use both hands for holding the two needles, and the awl to pierce the leather, the piece is held in a wooden sewing clip, wedged between the legs.

Image by Lena Saugen – Hand Making Tools for Saddlery

 

Saddle Stitching and Machine Stitching both have their place.

 

Saddle stitching without a doubt makes for a more durable, long-lasting product. The question is whether or not an item requires that level of durability or if corners can be cut to lower the overall cost of the item.
There is a market for both and beautiful products are produced with either method. It is cheaper to produce products that are machine stitched so making it more affordable for many comsumers. However if you can find your way to owning one hand stitch item you will be owning a piece of art.

 

 

OUR MISSION

 

We are utterly enthusiastic about Equestrian Heritage . Sadly in Portugal there are barely any hand stitchers left to produce beautiful bridles, saddles and halters. We have made it our mission is to support and promote Portuguese Artisans and heritage items.

We are very previlaged to be working with some true artists, you will find their work in our online shop.

Feel free to contact us if you have any special requests.

Images by Lena Saugen Photography, Teresa Burton and Christophe Taniere

Text by Teresa Burton

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mottled Horses by Iwona Jankowski

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American Contemporary Art –

Mottled Horses by Iwona Jankowski

We were introduced to the beautiful work of Iwona by Claudia a dear friend and client that had some beautiful portraits painted of her Lusitano horses.  The work is stunning, perfectly capturing the characters of each horse. The eyes in particular reflect the very depth of the equine´s character and mood.

 

Artist´s Statement Iwona she told me about her impressionist style called ´Mottled Horses´

My “Mottled Horses” – Equine art developed since 2002 in my new “Mottled” style that merges abstract and expressionism with a touch of realism.

The subject is created on a colorful abstract background to express feelings, often shown as a close-up, with special attention to the eyes and focusing on specific moods and composition. Often with secondary transparent image/s to show movement or specific scenario.

In my paintings, I don’t intend to replicate photo-realistic objects, but to capture the utmost uniqueness of life. Illustrating my subjects, I often pay no attention to exact shapes, textures, or real colors and emphasize just on a small fragment, sometimes a very tiny detail, in order to insinuate an idea.

That approach leads me to concentrate on what I feel and not what I see or know about the subject. Also, it helps me to effectively use visuals to depict a story about my subject.

 

My art captures just an indication of a subject to leave the rest for my viewer’s imagination to create the unique picture.

We are very proud to be able to offer a selection of limit additions in our online shop.

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Visit Shop for the Limited Addition Collection.   SEE WHOLE COLLECTION

Original Art –  Iwona does commissions to find out more contact us here.  The prices will depend on the size, complexity and location. Interested in a Commission

 

 

 

Get the Best from the Pre Purchase Exam

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The Pre Purchase Exam

By Teresa Burton Lusitano Heritage and Lusitano Horse Finder

Thoughts, Tips and Recommendations for the buyer and seller

It is a big step searching for and buying a horse in another country: Especially if It is your first time. The whole journey can be very emotional – right from the moment you start to recieving your perfect dancing partner at home with you.

Once you have selected a horse to make a truly informed decision you must put emotion to oneside and organise a Pre Purchase Exam PPE.

First and foremost I want to say that a pre purchase should not be viewed as a pass or fail for the horse. There are of course, some exceptions. But in most cases it is simply an assessment of whether the horse is able to do the job you want him for or not. Also that you can understand and live with any likely flaws the horse may have.

Lets face it If you carry out enough tests you will find a flaw in every horse. This is why there is an international standard set out to carry out a purchase exam – The 5 Stage Pre Purchase Exam PPE.

This PPE is simply a snapshot into the horse´s health and physical condition at the time of the exam. It is designed to provide you with a hint to the possible future of the horse but it cannot predict the future!

The PPE has come along way since the days in my childhood and teens, when we bought horses with a simple 10 minute check up to now an exam that can last several hours. There is one thing I believe is important from my past I feel is rather lost these days. This is taking the horse at face value. Now before you shout me down regailling stories of unimaginable horrors I want to say I understand. But I have seen horses with what could only be termed appalling xrays and flexions test that perform beautifully everyday with never a days lameness.

While I am certainly not in anyway a qualified veterinarian the content in this article are my reflexions based purely on many years experience. Through my work I have been directly or indirectly involved with literally hundreds of such exams. Even so it is with some trepidation I approach this sensitive subject, in the hope that I can help those buying and those selling with some recommendations and thoughts on the best way forward.

Find a Vet in another Country

When buying a horse in another country you usually have to rely on a vet located in that country to carry out the exam. The normal protocal is that this is done in conjunction with your regular vet as ultimately he or she will be the one caring for your horse. However this can become a big muddle if not conducted out with the right care and information. The vet that actually carries out the exam is the one who is in direct contact with the horse.  They can make an assessment from all aspects of th encounter with the equine. Simply looking at x-rays and videos is very useful but is not the whole picture.

What´s more we have the varibility between veterarians one says no problem the other thinks otherwise. So it is vital to keep in mind the question is this horse able to do the job you intend for him. Lets face it the demands on a leisure horse are generally much lower than of a high level competition horse.

It is sensible to be prudent about who you choose to do your exam just like in any profession veta tend to specialise in different areas and can offer extra expertise on all manner of subjects from diet, to lameness, husbandary to viruses etc. There are vets that are more specialised and knowledgeable in pre purchase exams.

Check list when choosing your veterinarian

  1. He or she is very familar with the breed. Different breeds do come with different variabilities plus points and minus.
  2. They understand the riding disapline you are involved in especially if the horse for high level competition.
  3. They are impartial meaning they are not the sellers vet, they have not been treating the horse, they should not have any financial stake in the sale of the horse
  4. The veterinarian you choose works for you, is paid for by you and reports directly to you the buyer.
    As the buyer you own all the rights to the information obtained this includes all findings, radiographic images, or test results. The veterinarian is under no obligation to share the exam results with the seller or agent unless given express permission by the buyer.
  5. They speak your language or you have a mutual language you both understand
  6. They are experienced in PPE exams and have quality x-ray imaging equipment.

When you have your chosen veterinarian then they will give possible dates to carrry out the exam. It is helpful to provide the seller or agent with plenty of notice. These exam take some time to do and proper preparation makes a big difference –

The seller needs to have made the time available with assistance to be available. 2 to 3 people at the exam works well. Also that the they have a suitable area with flat surfaces especially for the flexion tests, lunge on hard ground.

 

The Exam –

 

The first part of the exam is the physical where the vet assesses the general health of the horse – weight, coat condition, eyes, teeth the oral cavity for tooth abnormalities, Listen to the heart carefully from both sides of the horse to detect subtle murmurs or arrhythmias, breathing, character, and visable imperfections on the body and legs likes signs of injury or surgrery, medical history and performance history.

The blue book checked with the and the micro chip number confirmed.  UNDERSTAND THE BLUE BOOK

Hooves checked for any signs of lameness – they are examined carefully for integrity and balance and use hoof testers to identify any soreness in the soles

  • Then movement that includes – flexion tests on all 4 legs – have someone available to take video.
    Working on the lunge both reins all 3 gaits on soft ground
    Working on lunge on hard ground walk and trot
    Turning on the forehand on both sides to see the crossover of hind legs to perform the lateral
    movement. Then asking the horse to back up.

All of this part of the exam is noted by the veterinarian and will be presented in a written exam sheet to you along with videos of flexions and lunge work.

Assuming the horse is seen as healthy after this stage, then the veterinarian will move onto x-rays. A regular exam includes 16-18 xrays. Good quality clear xrays are very important and taken form the correct angles and alignments. They can easily be misread with poor quality and angles. This is an important reason to ensure that you appoint an experience veterinarian in ths field.

You can ask for other x rays that are not included in the standard pre purchase exam. There is generally a charge per extra xray say for instance the back and neck. You could for example have up 36 xrays.

If there is a question mark on an x-ray sometimes it is worth having others taken at different angles to gain a more 3 dimensional view of the area. Ultrasound exams can also be used on areas with abnormalities. It is very useful to your veterarian that you are easily available when the exam is taking place. This way your veterinarian can contact you to ask if he or she can take further views or use ultrasound.

 

Blood Tests

If you are in a country that does not allow horses in with a posiive piroplasmosis test. Part of your exam will need to include a blood test at Bose in Germany for Piro Learn More about this here.

You maybe wise to do the piroplasmosis test in Bose prior to the PPE

You will also need proof of a negative Coggins test before importing. This is only required for breeding horses. Geldings are excempt
You can request A complete blood count and serum chemistry to give some indication of the horse’s overall health.
You can also test for drug use

This of course depends on your budget you can simply go with the 5 stage pre puchase and only do other tests should your veterinarian have a concern or consider it is helpful. If you are insuring your horse the insurance companies generally only require the standard test.

 

  • Coming Soon Extra requirement for Breeding Animals

If you are purchasing animals for breeding purposes there are special things to consider and is a good idea to talk with your vet carrying out the pre purchase as they may need to call on the asistance of a vet specialising the breeding.

Breeding Mares – They need to be checked out for soundness for breeding.

Tips for the Seller

When you have decided to sell your horse it is a good idea to carry out your own pre purchase exam even if it is simply the physical part. This way you have a clear picture of where you stand and what to expect. It is by far better to be open with prospective buyers, open about the horse´s medical history and character let the buyer know about behaviour problems etc – flaws in your horse does not mean no buyer will not come.

Say for instance something comes up in the flexions or on the lunge your horse is not moving level behind, often it is something you can address. Simple things like –

  • Poor fitting saddle
    Riding style
    Teeth needing attention
    The bit
    Laying down on hard ground or getting cast in the stable
    Unexpected traumas in the field or while ridden for like bad footing after a jump etc.

An investment in a equine osteopath or equine Chiropractic can help hugely in maintaining your horse´s well being. A qualified equine practioner can detect and remedy previously unrecognised areas of restricted movement. They can free up tight areas in the body to enable your horse to move more freely and identify why the problem is occuring.

It is a small investment compared to dissapointments when a horse purchase fails based on something that could have been easily solved.

Keep the dentist visits up to date and recorded along with flu vaccinations and worming.

Don´t be tempted to make big changes right before the Pre Purchase for instance having the horse shod. Sensitivity after shoeing often occurs and can mean your horse shows unsound when in fact it is simply the result of new shoeing.

Be open about any medication the horse is recieving or any interventions in joints etc.

On the day of the exam have two people available to assist the veterinarian and suitable space to carried out the walk and trot ups in straight lines and flexions. Plus an arena for the lunge work. A quiet environment for the Xrays and available power.

If it is a very young horse it really pays dividends if you put in the time to prepare the horse with handling, picking up his feet trotting in hand and standing calmly. This also makes it safer for the vet to do his job.

 

Once you have conpleted the exams and are eady to complete the purchase the next stage is –

  • The Buying Contract
  • Payment
  • The ownership transfer – This is done with your country association or your country does not have an association then contact the APSL in Portugal.
  • Booking the transport or moving to a trainer

We wish you the very best in your journey and any help we can give please contact us for horse suggestions, vet etc email Us

 

LINKS

See list of vetenarians in Portugal

Transport, Understanding Piroplasmosis, The blue book,

Text by Teresa Burton

 

 

 

The Art of Balance

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THE ART OF BALANCE

 

Text Therese Alhaug Photo Lena Saugen. Made in collaboration with Teresa Burton.

 

If you watched Rodrigo’s Olympic debut, you might remember how he played his way down the final line holding one hand on the reins. His big smile made it look easy and fun, making us curious to know more about this playfully yet technically solid duo. A chat that led us into The Art of Balance.

EQUILIFE and LUSITANO HERITAGE visited the Olympic debutant at his family farm in Alentejo, Portugal, where Rodrigo began his riding career working the farm cattle and competing in working equitation. A different background than most dressage riders. He early performed at equestrian events, including his favourite performance: riding without reins.

“In Tokyo, just before entering the freestyle, I told Rodrigo to have fun in the ring and reminded him that he was fortunate to have four reins to hold this time!” Rodrigo’s wife, Maria Amaral, says, laughing.

Maria has significantly influenced Rodrigo’s dressage career, being a successful Grand Prix rider herself. The two equally guide each other in the dressage arena.

 

“Each horse has its natural balance, some more to the front and others more to the hind legs. This is something they are born with. So when you start training the horses, you have to look for this.”

Rodrigo Moura Torres

 

THE ART OF BALANCE

Rodrigo’s family has bred horses for a long time. They also produced Rodrigo’s Olympic partner, Fogoso.

“I know Fogoso inside out, which helped me a lot when we entered the arena in Tokyo,” Rodrigo says.

One of Rodrigo’s early masters, Mestre Joao Lopes Aleixo, taught him the importance of the seat to have balance and control and to give impulsion from behind; Create harmony with invisible aids. Still today, Rodrigo is working on this.

“When riding 2-3 km outside, moving the horse and the cattle, it requires the horses to be comfortable with me. They need to be straight, in the same rhythm, and very well balanced,” Rodrigo explains. “This is something I have tried to surge since the beginning of my career as a dressage rider.

 

“When riding 2-3 km outside, moving the horse and the cattle, it requires the horses to be comfortable with me. They need to be straight, in the same rhythm, and very well balanced,” Rodrigo explains. “This is something I have tried to surge since the beginning of my career as a dressage rider.”

Rodrigo Moura Torres

Living in the middle of the countryside, Rodrigo’s father and grandfather used horses to move cattle, giving the horses the genetics to deal with pressure. The first horses were bred for bullfighting and then working equitation, but in the last ten years, they turned their eye to producing dressage horses. Rodrigo still uses his knowledge from the fields when working the youngsters.

“As a breeder, I work the horses since they are young. First, I must find the ideal balance for the horse in all gaits and exercises. I pay notice of this in the lunge already. Each horse has its natural balance, some more to the front and others more to the hind legs. This is something they are born with. So when you start training the horses, you have to look for this,” Rodrigo says, pointing out that each horse is different and has its different rhythm.

 

 

“Since Fogoso was four, he could already do everything. I could play with some piaffe and some passage. It was very easy for him because he was very well-balanced. He was already giving me everything, and I just took advantage of these natural things he gave me.”

Rodrigo Moura Torres

FINDING THE NATURAL BALANCE

We visit the farm on a crisp morning in spring. The horses are grassing in the sunrise on large fields dotted with colourful wildflowers and cork oak trees. A scenery that the family takes advantage of when riding out, allowing the horses to stretch and gallop alongside with the cows and horses in the fields.

Rodrigo’s dad, Carlos, has already started grooming the Olympic hero Fogoso, who’s now 12yo, for Rodrigo to ride.

The powerful stallion demonstrates the dressage evolution in the Torres family’s breeding strategy: a horse that loves competitions and rises to challenges confidently.
“At competitions, Fogoso truly shines. He loves being in the spotlight,” Rodrigo explains.

“Since Fogoso was four, he could already do everything. I could play with some piaffe and some passage. It was very easy for him because he was very well-balanced. He was already giving me everything, and I just took advantage of these natural things he gave me.”

The Lusitano breed is known for their natural talent for passage and piaffe due to their short and powerful physic. Something Rodrigo has in mind when training them.

“When a horse is balanced & strong, and accepting my aids, I can ask nothing, and he will do everything.”

 

Talking about the breed, how do you implement the German training scale?

“The training scale is logical. I always try to go through the training scale, but when riding, you must feel what you must do at every moment. Sometimes you have to go back a little, then maybe two or three steps forward, then back again etc. Riding is not mechanical. You see; It’s the horses saying to me what I need to do. Not me.”

Rodrigo explains how Lusitanos naturally can be presented earlier to collected exercises.

“Some Lusitanos are already, as a 5-year-old ready for 3-4 steps in piaffe, because it is natural for them. I do this just for the horse to ‘feel it’. I never push them. I rather try to understand exactly what to do at every moment. This is my philosophy. Step by step, I give them more and more tasks, and step by step, they give me more and more in return.”

 

“When a horse is balanced & strong, and accepting my aids, I can ask nothing, and he will do everything.”

Rodrigo Moura Torres

Rodrigo puts his head up to demonstrate:

“If you see horses move naturally in freedom, they do so many difficult things. And they always keep their head up. So why should I sit on them and put their head down, destroying their natural balance? To make a horse improve, you need to keep him healthy. And for this, we need to understand the difference between the breeds.”

“We cannot go to full extension with a Lusitano when they are young, as this might ruin them. While a Lusitano might play with piaffe as a 5yo, my warmblood started passage when he was 8. So we must keep attention to their natural balance and ask what they have to offer.”

 

“The rider’s balance will be good if the horse can move in a good balance. You can sit still, and your legs don’t have to push. The horse will move through his back and into your hand.”

Rodrigo Moura Torres

 

He continues:

“Some Lusitanos can ruin their body if they go big before they are strong and on a higher level. To go forward is one thing but to push is another thing. You simply cannot force something they cannot deliver to you. Approximately 95% of the dressage horses today are warmbloods, so the training scale which is good itself – is based mainly on warmbloods. We need to keep that in mind and foster what they are good at. The things they are not so good at will come naturally when they become stronger
and more confident.”

Talking about balance, how would you describe a rider in balance?

“Many trainers say if the horse goes wrong, the rider is not sitting in a good way. I don’t believe this. The rider’s balance will be good if the horse can move in a good balance. You can sit still, and your legs don’t have to push. The horse will move through his back and into your hand.”

 

Maria adds:

“You might notice how Rodrigo is moving a bit up or forward when going into halt or piaffe. One of the judges in Tokyo even commented on this, that he fell a bit forward in the exercise, but it’s actually natural for him. He feels it will help the horse, and that in that moment it will loosens his back and support the balance.”

Rodrigo:

“If I keep the natural balance of the horse and the horse work in harmony, the midpoint is the rider, so I try to keep the center of his balance to where I am sitting. If I sit behind this center, the weight comes too much to the hind legs. The rider needs to be in self-carriage, as I don’t want to destroy the balance of the horse. As an example, the gravity of the pirouette should be where I am sitting.”

“If I keep the natural balance of the horse and the horse work in harmony, the midpoint is the rider, so I try to keep the center of his balance to where I am sitting.”

Rodrigo Moura Torres

 

Despite their achievements in the ring, the duo is not seen often at bigger shows. Rodrigo explains.

“My main goal is to keep Fogoso healthy and happy so we prefer shows close to home, as we don’t want to push him with travelling. Even as a youngster, we opted to only start competing when he turned 7 years old, and we only do 2-3 bigger competitions a year. The remaining time we keep him in his routine at home doing his normal horse life.”

“The way I see it, show jumping is much more about business, which requires more travelling, while dressage, for many, is not so much about that. It’s more about making a name for yourself and delivering unique performances at the right stages. So we dont want to travel to the other side of the world if we dont have to.”

EQUILIFE visited the Olympic debutant at his family farm in Alentejo, Portugal, where Rodrigo began his riding career working the farm cattle and competing in working equitation.

 

We want to thank the Torres family for having us over and Lusitano Horsefinder for collaboration with us to make this trip possible.

 

 

 

Laura Gosch – One to Watch!

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Beautiful, Talented & Determined – Laura Gosch

Recently we had the wonderful opportunity to be present at the opening of Goncalo and Nara´s new equestrian facility. It was a busy but beautiful day in so many ways.

Working alongside them is Laura Gosch, a talented and focussed woman who has boldy gone in the direction of her passion for all things equine.

As a former International model we were very fortunate that Laura generously agreed to pose for us on the day in the extraodinary equestrian clothing collection designed by Silvia Teixeira. Bringing her combined model expertise and undesputible riding skills Laura inspired us a lot.

Laura rides beautifully and is definitely a lady to watch for the future as a great trainer and teacher.

Curious, I asked Laura for her story,  which she very eloquently wrote for me.  It takes us right from how she discovered horses all the way up to this moment. It´s a lovely read that I am sure many of you can identify with – so here you go

All about Laura …………

 

I’m from Vienna, smack in the centre of town. The tourist carriage horses at the cathedral were the only horses in sight, growing up. As a young man my father had spent a couple of years as an “Elève” at the Spanish Royal Riding School, but neither of my parents had anything to do with horses by the time they had me.

A friend of my mom’s had told her that she took her daughter horse riding because she thought it was an advantage, especially for girls, to learn to handle such big animals and and themselves around them. That seemed logical to my Mom and so I had my first lesson. I think I even remember it. Mom says I was glowing – I remember that I was almost drooling with joy. From then on it was the pony on the top of every Christmas list, endlessly trying to persuade my grandparents that their apartment was big enough for a horse. Lungeing my girlfriends over obstacles on their imaginary ponies and, in my mind, every walk in nature was actually a hack .

I’m very grateful that I discovered such a love, a passion for something as a child. The joy was so intense, it warms my heart to remember those little moments and it’s pure fuel for me until today.

Over the next years, my champion parents continued taking me for riding lessons. When I was about 13 or 14, I began taking the train every Saturday after school, with my overnight bag packed, to help at an Arabian horse farm about 1 1/2 hours outside of Vienna. They allowed me to start my first filly there, at which I did a very poor job but this is where I actually began really learning.

Besides school, at 17 yrs old I was fortunate to be professionally modelling. I used the money I earnt to turn my dream into a reality. Mom became my accomplice and the two of us set out on an unforgettable trip around Europe, the adventure culminated in finding my Arabian filly. Chestnut, with a beautiful long neck and flaxen manes, just like I knew her from my dreams. That filly became a part of our family, she kept us both safe through all the silly things I put her through. She traveled half of Europe with me and finally to Mallorca where she currently resides at 22 years of age until I can have her with me again. Buying my first horse was one of the most important things I did in my life. Learning I am capable of taking what seemed “impossible” and turn it into reality. A powerful lesson and I think it has become an important part of me.

After finishing school I moved to Paris and started modelling full time. Up to 2015 I lived and worked in many different cities. I was ambitious, young and thought I needed to rule the world or, at least, be a rockstar. The modelling was alluring in more than one way. Whenever I got too lonely, sad or intimidated I came back to the horses.

With my best friend, we started an Arabian show horse training barn. I learned so much about handling young horses. I also spent some time learning on the ranch of Linda and Pat Parelli – one of the happiest times of my life – they were pioneers in horse & people education.

Fast forward to 2015 – I was living in LA at that time and loved the city. Working with great people, things were going well. Yet I wasn’t fulfilled with my job my passion was elsewhere. One day, while having lunch with a friend, the subject turned to horses. He waited until I had finished my ode and said,

“You completely change when you talk about horses, I think this is what you should be doing”.

A few days later, my best friend was extremely clear about this too.

It was time and I was ready to really hear it. I worked up the courage to consider the possibility of living my dream full time with horses.

I had my mare at german classical trainer Anja Beran at the time and I think that’s where the idea of the Lusitano was born.

Curious to learn more about the breed I took an amazing trip around Portugal to visit the breeders, I was totally inspired.  I bought two three year old colts from Mr. Manuel Veiga, still with the idea of returning to LA and eventually selling one of them. However in the end I decided to move back to Belgium to keep them both.

In November 2015 I shot my last editorial, with an amazing crew for Harper’s Bazaar. It was a breathtaking trip around Jordan. A fabulous exit from the model´s life.

Then the journey began with my two colts. Getting to know them in Belgium, then with Parelli instructor and all-round horseman Walter Gegenschatz in Switzerland, back in Belgium with a Master instructor of the École de Légèreté and later in France with Mr. Philippe Karl himself and his wife Bea Borelle. After that the three of us joined my partner Sergio Santos in Mallorca for 3 years, where I started teaching and training an amazing group of clients that became friends. Although I learned immensly while teaching and training, I was missing getting training myself – and my two darling Veigas were always happy to point that out to me.

I remembered Gonçalo Linhas exceptional riding from my horse “shopping trip” and my inquiries about him got a unanimously positive response – a rare occurrence. I brought him my best horse to get a foot in the door, and as soon as it was possible, almost a year ago, I attacked lovely Dr. Nara França and Gonçalo with the rest of our gang (Historico da Broa, our cremello stallion, Jarama and Sérgio’s Silveiras stallion, Habil). We, have been living in their barn ever since, located in the pulsating metropole that is Vila Chã de Ourique.

I’m still trying to find my place in this horse world but here I’m learning at top speed. I want to continue developing horses with the support of an experienced (not to call him senior, he wouldn’t like that) trainer like Gonçalo. I believe that being around horses, in the right conditions, can be so good for people. Whatever I do, be it in the arena or by selling horses, on the social media or by writing these few lines, I hope to help make the equestrian community grow by introducing more people to horses and supporting my fellow equestrians.

These animals are a little bit magic. You can rely on them to keep you humble, toughen you up and sometimes, if you put in the work, they will dance with you for a short while and make you so happy that you forget yourself.

Forward by Teresa Burton Lusitano Heritage

Text by Laura Gosch She can be found on facebook and Intagram

Clothing – Designed by Silvia Teixeira – Garments available to order in our online shop

Images by Lena Saugen Photography

Location –  Quinta do Palhão

Thank you to Goncalo Linhas and Nara Franca