Tag Archives: Interagro Lusitanos

Interagro Lusitanos Exemplify the Iberian Horse in Spectacular Volume

Photo courtesy of Gabriele Boiselle.

Itapira, SP, Brazil (July 31, 2018) – Interagro’s generations of Lusitano sporthorses are no strangers to the limelight: Interagro’s breeding stallions, brood mares, foals, yearlings, and competition horses have been featured on the covers of books, magazines, and calendars since the farm’s founding in 1975. As one of the most visually appealing equine breeds, the Lusitano and its Iberian counterparts are the focus of equestrian photographer Gabriele Boiselle’s latest volume, Andalusians & Lusitanos, which documents the breeds’ history, culture, tradition, and beauty within its nearly 300 pages. Interagro’s Brazilian stud and training center, along with the mares, foals, and stallions that call it home, earned it the prestige of being one of the featured Iberian strongholds Boiselle chose to represent the Puro Sangue Lusitano.

The Interagro Lusitano has been spotlighted on the pages of mainstream publications like Allure as well as equestrian publications like Dressage Today and Horseback Magazine. The beauty, history, and tradition of Interagro, as well as the international success of its horses, marks the farm and its equines as a unique mix of modern and classic. Boiselle depicts one of its exported stallions, Zero Interagro, currently performing upper level dressage in the US, as well as the mares and foals that roam Interagro’s 1,300 acres, a few of its foundation stallions standing in Brazil, and its competitive four-in-hand team of buckskin Lusitanos, who were recently featured on the cover of the German driving magazine, Pferd and Wagon. The black stallion Nordeste (SS), one of the most influential stallions in Interagro’s breeding program, also receives a full page spread depicting his beauty and nobility. Nordeste, who is currently retired from training but still actively breeding at Interagro, turned 24 years old this past March and exemplifies the qualities sought after by the Portuguese breeders, and has passed on his exceptional traits to hundreds of Interagro sporthorse athletes.

“The Iberian horse has always fascinated and inspired me,” said Boiselle. “I have traveled the world looking for special horses to capture the beauty and nobility of the breed.”

A synopsis of the volume reads: The book is intended as a tribute to the Iberian horse. Whether Pura Raza Española or Puro Sangue Lusitano, there is something very special about all of them because they exude that incredible magic of a royal baroque horse: compact elegance and fiery temperament. Those magnificent big eyes reflect the unique character and enormous confidence of these noble horses. For centuries they have been enchanting human beings with their exuberance, their long, flowing manes and their majestic appearance. Anyone who has ever been to the “Feria del Caballo” in Jerez de la Frontera (Spain), or the “Feira Nacional do Cavalo” in Golegã (Portugal) begins to realise that what they see here is much more than beautiful horses, in fact they are looking at a complete riding culture which extends back over centuries and is still well preserved today. There is nowhere else in the world where the tradition of horse breeding is as well nurtured and preserved as in Portugal and Spain, particularly in Andalusia. For many years I have felt a strong attraction towards Iberian horses, so I visit the studs frequently and many of the breeders have become good friends. It is always a great honour for me to photograph their horses and to join them in appreciation of their sheer beauty.

With over 40 years of experience breeding, training, and exporting Lusitanos, Interagro’s mission is to preserve the exceptional bloodlines and qualities of the breed while showcasing their talent, beauty, and intelligence, especially in the FEI and sport horse disciplines. Established in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Gavião Gonzaga, Interagro’s initial vision was to preserve and restore the original foundational Lusitano bloodlines and lineages, many of which were in danger of extinction following the Portuguese Revolution of 1974. Through meticulous breeding, exceptional care, and world-class training, the Interagro Lusitanos of today continue that legacy as they compete across four continents.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website at www.lusitano-interagro.com.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
holly@equinium.com
www.equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Interagro Celebrates Dressage Success at 2018 Adequan Global Dressage Festival

Zepelim Interagro and Pia Aragao. Photo courtesy of Interagro Lusitanos.

Wellington, FL (May 19, 2018) – Dressage and the Interagro Lusitano sporthorse are naturally synergistic; the intelligent, elegant, and athletic equines pair seamlessly with this sport of power and precision. For over four decades, Interagro has been breeding exceptional dressage horses and in the first few months of 2018, their most recent group of competitive Lusitanos stepped into the dressage arenas of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival to continue that legacy.

Journeying to Wellington, Florida from Interagro’s stud and training center in Itapira, Sao Paulo, Brazil, two stallions owned and currently standing at Interagro blazed a trail of dressage excellence. Zepelim Interagro (Quinarius Interagro x Ordenada Interagro) kicked off his 2018 show season with a 68.315% and a win in the AGDF 7 FEI Grand Prix. Ridden and trained by Pia Aragao, this impressive 16.3h gray stallion exuded a presence of power and poise in his exceptional collected work and elastic extensions. Winning his first US Grand Prix was a fantastic start, and Zepelim kept up the momentum through March in the Grand Prix and made his debut CDI performances in the Grand Prix and Grand Prix Freestyle during week 10.

As the yin to Zepelim’s yang, the 8-year-old Fellini Interagro (Nirvana Interagro x Batina Interagro) stepped out in his first US competition with increasingly spectacular efforts in the Prix St. Georges and Intermediaire I. Capped by a high score of 69.559% in the FEI Prix St. Georges during week 10, the impressive black stallion’s successful US show debut builds upon a decorated Brazilian career in the Young Horse divisions. Also ridden and trained by Pia Aragao, Fellini epitomizes the athleticism, beauty, and movement that have become the hallmarks of the Interagro sporthorse.

“Both Fellini and Zepelim went above and beyond during our Florida winter show season,” said Aragao. “Zepelim made amazing strides in the Grand Prix and continues to improve, while Fellini proved himself to be a consummate competitor and to possess all of the ability and presence of his sire, Nirvana.” Both horses returned to Brazil in early April.

Another Interagro stallion, Belisario Interagro, was also taking home two blue ribbons and other top finishes in the Grand Prix at the 2018 Global Dressage Festival. Owned, trained, and ridden by Kate Poulin of Fair Weather Farm in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, Belisario made his Grand Prix debut in the fall of 2017. Belisario (Quixote Interagro x Urzelina Interagro) was sold to Poulin as a 5-year-old during the 2010 Lusitano Collection International Horse Auction, hosted by Interagro in the US. Under the tutelage of her mother, USEF “S” Judge Sharon Poulin, and US Olympian Debbie MacDonald, Kate Poulin and Belisario posted personal best scores in the national Grand Prix during the 2018 Florida dressage season. “Belisario loves his work and is always so focused,” said Poulin. “This combined with his intelligence and natural talent for piaffe and passage has made him a fantastic Grand Prix horse. He is a true partner, and riding him as given me deeper insight into what dressage is really all about.”

While Interagro’s upper level stallions were taking center stage at the Global Dressage Festival, a number of geldings from the farm’s H Generation were also having success in the dressage arenas of North America. Tyra Vernon of BREC Dressage in Ocala, Florida rode Hadrian Interagro, Hawk Interagro, and Horacio Interagro to many blue ribbons and high point awards. Hawk’s first time out at 3rd Level he was High Point Champion at the Sweetheart Cup in Orlando; Hadrian competed at 3rd and 4th Level scoring 68.3% in his first show at 4th Level. This athletic grey gelding also won a 3rd Level class at the Global Dressage Festival in March. Hawk and Hadrian are now qualified for Regional Championships this fall in Atlanta, and their third Interagro brother, Horacio, recently made his First Level debut with BREC trainer Kerryann Schade, winning the class with 70.8% and putting in one score towards qualifying for Championships. Vernon purchased all three Interagro horses from Brazil with the guidance of US Sales Representative Peter van Borst, and has utilized the Interagro support system not only for pre-purchase exams, shipping, and logistics, but also for training advice and information once the horses arrive in the US. Vernon and her three 7-year-old geldings also attend numerous clinics with world class judges and 5* international judges like Janet Foy, Gary Rockwell, and Henk van Bergen on a regular basis: “All of our clinicians have had so many positive things to say about our Lusitanos and feel they all show great talent and promise as FEI competitors,” said Vernon. “We have started playing with piaffe and passage with Hadrian and Hawk and we are so excited with the quality they show for the Grand Prix. Henk said the only problem with Hadrian is that he wasn’t his! I’m very thankful to Peter and all of Interagro’s team for the opportunity to have such amazing horses. I continue to look forward to working closely with Interagro to supply myself, my trainers at BREC Dressage, and our clients with these top quality Lusitanos!”

Hobbit Interagro (Bungo Interagro x Radiosa MAC), a 7-year-old gray stallion owned by Haras dos Cavaleiros, competed at AGDF with rider and trainer Tiago Ernesto. This athletic stallion was noted for a spectacular canter, as well as his overall beauty and character, and has begun his career as a breeding stallion with Haras dos Cavaleiros. With every score over 70% and a high score of 73% in all of the Second Level Tests at Global, Ernesto stated that he was very happy with the horse’s performance overall and is looking forward to both Hobbit’s future and the future of the stallion’s offspring: “With Hobbit, his character is the most exceptional thing,” said Tiago. “But in addition, he has fantastic gaits, movement, and athletic ability, which makes him a superb competitor as well as sire. We take it day by day with him, but his desire to learn and please the rider combined with his elasticity and talent for collection make him a great Grand Prix prospect.”

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website at www.lusitano-interagro.com.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
holly@equinium.com
www.equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

2017 Marks the Rise of the Interagro Lusitano

Incrivel Interagro. Photo courtesy of Interagro Lusitanos.

Itapira, SP, Brazil (January 4, 2018) – From the tropical countryside of Brazil to the mountains of Germany, the Interagro Lusitano sporthorse continues to make its mark in the emerging discipline of working equitation. The stud and training center has now developed hundreds of nationally and internationally successful Lusitanos in working equitation, as well as dressage, driving, endurance, and show jumping. From Working Equitation World Cup champions to US and European exports, Interagro’s status as a breeder and developer of victorious working equitation Lusitanos has reached that of a world power.

As the most influential bloodline in working equitation, Interagro horses have racked up wins on four continents in the demanding discipline, which was born from the athleticism, suppleness, and partnership required of working horses for daily tasks around the farm and features three core phases: dressage, obstacles, and speed. Most notable among Interagro’s resume of performance horses is Xaveco Interagro, who with France’s Claire Moucadel at the reins was victorious in the 2016 Brazilian Working Equitation World Cup. Xaveco and Moucadel went on to many working equitation successes, including being awarded the Haras Cup during October 2017’s Haras dos Cavaleiros event, the premier working equitation competition in North America.

Antiochus Interagro also made headlines during the summer of 2017 as a top competitor on the German working equitation scene, while youngsters from Interagro’s I Generation made their debut at the national level in Brazil in October. Incrivel and Inquisidor Interagro, ridden by Edmar Martins Brito and Alexandre Souza, placed first and second in the Novice A division. Another working equitation talent, Empreitero Interagro, with Edmar Brito at the reins, won the Preliminary division. Over the past two years, Interagro’s placings at various levels from Novice to Master have been too many to list, with generations of Interagro Lusitanos converging at various shows and completing alongside each other.

In April of 2017, during the first phase of the Brazilian Working Equitation Championships, horses owned both by Interagro and clients from the farm’s spectacular national Yearling Auctions over the past 17 years navigated the courses and tests. Two young horses, Hanibal Interagro and Hector Interagro, displayed exceptional talent at their show debut; Hector has since been sold to the US while Hanibal was successfully revised as a stallion and added to Interagro’s breeding program. At the time of Hector’s international sale, he was the rankings leader in the 2017 Brazilian Working Equitation Ranking. Also during the first phase of the ranking, Feitor Interagro and Divisadero Interagro advanced to the Preliminary and Master levels, kicking off advanced working equitation careers. Heliodoro Interagro, owned by Alexandre Siqueira and sold during the 13th Annual Interagro Yearling Auction in 2012, was also an active competitor, along with Porfirio Interagro, stunning and competitive at 21 years young, representing the eldest of Interagro’s horses competing at the working equitation championships with his amateur rider Suely Moraes. Porfirio was sold as a 2-year-old in 1997.

As one of the fastest growing equestrian market segments, working equitation is traditionally Portuguese, as is the Lusitano breed, which is the most popular mount for the discipline. On Interagro’s 1,300 acre stud and training center, the concepts of working equitation are used as much outside the competition arena as within, during the daily tasks of managing its 3,000+ horses and the property itself. As such its Lusitanos are naturally inclined towards the discipline, which includes dressage, obstacles, speed, and cow events.

With over 40 years of experience breeding, training, and exporting Lusitanos, Interagro’s mission is to preserve the exceptional bloodlines and qualities of the breed while showcasing their talent, beauty, and intelligence, especially in the FEI and sport horse disciplines. Established in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Gavião Gonzaga, Interagro’s initial vision was to preserve and restore the original foundational Lusitano bloodlines and lineages, many of which were in danger of extinction following the Portuguese Revolution of 1974. Through meticulous breeding, exceptional care, and world-class training, the Interagro Lusitanos of today continue that legacy as they compete across four continents.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website at www.lusitano-interagro.com. To organize a trip to Brazil or for any questions regarding sales or the logistics of importing horses to the US, contact their US Sales Representative, Peter van Borst at 817 368 9447.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
holly@equinium.com
www.equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Brazil to Germany: Antiochus Interagro Takes Working Equitation Talent to Europe

Germany (October 19, 2017) – Interagro’s Lusitano sport horses are no strangers to international travel; as the largest breeder and exporter of Lusitanos in the world, Interagro’s skilled dressage, driving, jumping, and even yearling Lusitanos have boarded transcontinental flights to the US, Canada, Australia, and Europe. In the past few months, one Interagro gelding has been making waves in Germany’s fast growing competitive working equitation scene, where he is bringing a bit of Brazilian agility and athleticism to the historically horse centered continent.

Ridden by Pedro Ribeiro, Antiochus Interagro debuted at the Master Class level in Austria this past September, after excelling quickly through the lower levels of the sport in what is his first year of competition. Ribeiro, who is a Portuguese native and proficient in dressage, working equitation, and the highest levels of garrocha riding, notes the horse’s speed and balance, despite being barefoot, and an exceptionally willing attitude as contributors to his success. In his first season of showing, Antiochus has consistently placed in the top of the class, with great aptitude for the speed and cow events, the latter of which are more common in Europe than Brazil and the US.

Antiochus’ story began in Itapira, Brazil, where he was hand selected to be featured at the 2011 Lusitano Collection International Horse Auction held in Wellington, Florida. Lisa Cosgrove purchased him from Germany after a nine month search for talented 6-year-olds, and shipped him to Europe to continue his training. A royally bred, pure Veiga Lusitano, Antiochus Interagro (Ofensor (MV) x Opera II (MV)) has begun his competitive working equitation career, and has showcased that natural talent, balance, and a willing temperament Interagro is known for.

“In addition to his talent, speed, and agility, Antiochus is an easy going and fun to ride horse who is just as comfortable working at peak performance with Pedro as he is going for a trail ride with me,” said Cosgrove. “In the dressage and obstacles he is obedient and relaxed, but can switch seamlessly to the high octane power of the speed or cow class which is extremely important in the discipline. We are excited to see how far he can go!”

As one of the explosively growing equestrian market segments, working equitation is traditionally Portuguese, as is the Lusitano breed, which is the preferred mount for the 3- or 4-phase discipline. On Interagro’s 1,300 acre stud and training center, the concepts of working equitation are used as much outside the competition arena as within, during the daily tasks of managing its 3,000+ horses and the property itself. As such its Lusitanos are naturally inclined towards the discipline, which includes dressage, obstacles, speed, and cow events. In 2016, Xaveco Interagro topped Brazil’s inaugural Working Equitation World Cup, and many of Interagro’s horses have gone on to top titles in the US and Brazil. Antiochus Interagro’s success in Europe marks a new milestone for the breed and the sport, as the gelding’s origin and journey to Germany highlights the growing demand for athletic, intelligent, and trainable horses to succeed in sport and working disciplines.

With over 40 years of experience breeding, training, and exporting Lusitanos, Interagro’s mission is to preserve the exceptional bloodlines and qualities of the breed while showcasing their talent, beauty, and intelligence, especially in the FEI and sport horse disciplines. Established in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Gavião Gonzaga, Interagro’s initial vision was to preserve and restore the original foundational Lusitano bloodlines and lineages, many of which were in danger of extinction following the Portuguese Revolution of 1974. Through meticulous breeding, exceptional care, and world-class training, the Interagro Lusitanos of today continue that legacy as they compete across four continents.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website at www.lusitano-interagro.com. To organize a trip to Brazil or for any questions regarding sales or the logistics of importing horses to the US, contact their US Sales Representative, Peter van Borst at 817 368 9447.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
holly@equinium.com
www.equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Hobbit Interagro Graces May 2017 Cover of Horseman’s News

Photo courtesy of Horseman’s News.

Itapira, SP, Brazil (June 23, 2017) – The beauty and presence of the Interagro Lusitano have caught the eye of international publications around the world, from Dressage Today and Horseman’s Yankee Pedlar to Zulu Interagro posing with supermodel Gigi Hadid in the December 2016 article of Allure. In May 2017, an Interagro stallion once again was featured as the cover image for one of the US’s top equestrian magazines, Horseman’s News, boosting Interagro’s number of magazine covers from 22 to 23.

The regal profile of Hobbit Interagro (Bungo Interagro x Radiosa (MAC)), who was purchased and exported from Brazil to Texas by Haras dos Cavaleiros, graces the May cover against a black backdrop. Highlighting the horse’s excellent conformation, the cover features Hobbit clad only in the traditional halter and braids which sets off the dapple grey stallion’s elegant topline. The cover image was taken by Patricia Ernesto, wife of the head rider of Haras dos Cavaleiros, which acts as ambassador for the Lusitano breed in the United States.

Hobbit Interagro is no stranger to the spotlight: at the 2016 North American Lusitano Show, his historic stallion revision score of 76.5 points is the highest ever awarded to a Lusitano in the United States, following nearly 200 horse revisions. The coming six-year-old stallion is described by Haras dos Cavaleiros as “stunning.” They also note that his temperament and willingness, paired with exceptional “suspension, suppleness, and lightness in his steps,” naturally inclines him for the upper level and FEI disciplines.

With over 40 years of experience breeding, training, and exporting Lusitanos, Interagro’s mission is to preserve the exceptional bloodlines and qualities of the breed while showcasing their talent, beauty, and intelligence, especially in the FEI and sport horse disciplines. Established in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Gavião Gonzaga, Interagro’s initial vision was to preserve and restore the original foundational Lusitano bloodlines and lineages, many of which were in danger of extinction following the Portuguese Revolution of 1974. Through meticulous breeding, exceptional care, and world-class training, the modern Interagro Lusitano sporthorse currently shows and competes in a variety of disciplines – including Grand Prix dressage, Paralympic dressage, World Cup working equitation, driving, and jumping – continuing that legacy as they compete across four continents.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website at www.lusitano-interagro.com. To organize a trip to Brazil or for any questions regarding sales or the logistics of importing horses to the US, contact their US Sales Representative, Peter van Borst, at 817 368 9447.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
holly@equinium.com

May Competition Brings Top Accolades in Multiple Disciplines for Team Interagro

Eros Interagro and Alexandre Souza. Photos courtesy of Interagro Lusitanos.

Itapira, SP, Brazil (June 7, 2017) – May shows brought top finishes once again for Interagro Lusitanos of Brazil, where the horses and riders of the prestigious stud and training facility based in Itapira, Sao Paulo dominated in a variety of disciplines from FEI dressage to working equitation. In what has already been a banner year for Interagro, their team shows no signs of slowing down and only seems to be building more steam with bigger competitions and better results each time they venture off the 1,300 acre home farm. With the vision of developing a modern Lusitano sporthorse from the purest Portuguese lineages, Interagro strives through meticulous breeding, training, and exportation to preserve the ancient breed’s future in modern FEI sport.

At the 36th Annual International Lusitano Show, held May 25-28, 2017, Interagro’s team and horses bred by the Brazilian stud excelled in dressage and working equitation. Exclusively showcasing the athletic talents of the Portuguese breed, the International Lusitano Show is a benchmark for the breed in Brazil, attracting only the best horses and riders from around the country and featuring nationally ranked and FEI classes. A rising star in Interagro’s barn, Fellini Interagro’s poise and performance earned him top honors in the 7-year-old division as part of the National Dressage Championship (CDN). Under the guidance of Pia Aragao, Fellini’s winning score continues his winning streak from his 2016 6-year-old season, and under the new FEI judging he is currently the top ranked 7-year-old in Brazil. Aragao also rode Hamilcar Interagro to a third place finish in the 5-year-old division as part of the Sao Paulo Dressage Championship. Hamilcar, who was sold during the 13th Interagro Yearlings Auction in 2012, is owned by Martina Irene Brandes, head trainer for Interagro.

Fellini Interagro is the first and only dressage horse to reach this level under Brazil’s federation ranking. Aragao, who has been his prime trainer throughout his career, stated that the combination of technical and traditional FEI judging, which is new to Brazil this year, was a challenge for the pair, and Fellini rose to the occasion beautifully: “I was very pleased with him overall; for a young horse he performed super well and with a bit more time, experience, and polish I’m confident Fellini will truly shine.” She also elaborated on Hamilcar’s performance, saying, “Hamilcar is such a joy to ride, with a wonderful canter as well as amazing talent for collection and engagement.”

Advancing through the levels at the Lusitano Show, Edmar Brito and Hadrian Interagro topped the First Level Open division with a 67.408% as part of the ABPSL Dressage Cup. Alexandre Souza rode Hectar Interagro to 3rd in First Level Open with a score of 66.852%. Finorio Interagro, a horse sold at the 2013 Interagro Collection Auction to Haras Crystal, was guided to reserve honors in Second Level Open with Jefferson Rodrigo Pereira in the saddle. Brito also guided Empreiteiro Interagro to victory in the ABPSL Dressage Cup’s 3rd Level Open division with an impressive score of 64.167%. Finally, Generoso Interagro, who was sold at the 2011 Interagro Yearlings Auction and is now owned by Mrs. Magali Soares Pereira Unterkircher, scored a 66.848% to top the Training Level Open division under the guidance of Luciano dos Anjos.

To round out their month of May dressage success, Team Interagro prefaced their impressive performance in dressage at the International Lusitano Show with corresponding wins and top placings at the 3rd phase of the SHP Dressage Ranking, held May 13 at Sociedade Hipica Paulista in Sao Paulo. Among the most impressive performances were Pia Aragao and Zepelim Interagro, whose score of 63.525% in the FEI Grand Prix earned them 3rd place. Aragao also took out Fellini Interagro in the 7-year-olds, where he won the class with a final score of 7.88. Edmar Brito and the enigmatic Herodotus Interagro danced their way to second place at Second Level with a 64.848%. Brito also rode Hadrian Interagro to 3rd place in First Level with a 63.796%. Herodotus, who was sold just one day before his performance at the Ranking, has recently arrived in the US to begin his career with his new owners.

Aragao went on to note that all of her horses and pairs of riders from Interagro’s team have had a spectacular May season of dressage. “Zepelim stepped up to put in an excellent show in May. I was really pleased with him, and to have him back in the ring after a break. All of Interagro’s horses and riders showed great improvement, especially in an environment that is challenging for young horses and stallions. As they continue to improve and build on their technical skill and concentration, the horse’s athletic ability and poise in the arena will be even more apparent.”

Originally from Sweden, Aragao trains with Stefan Jansson and wrapped up a clinic with him on May 24th. “Stefan comes here regularly, about 4 times a year. He was thrilled with Fellini’s progress, his maturity, how easy he learns, and is able to perform what we ask of him. Zepelim is also stronger than ever, showing fantastic piaffe, passage, and transitions. The pirouettes are also very good and his elastic half-passes show impressive impulsion and crossing. With a few more trips to build confidence and concentration, Stefan and I are confident he will be a very solid competitor, and it’s exciting to see him succeed as we have been working with him since he was 5 years old!”

Empreiteiro Interagro and Edmar Brito

Interagro’s passion for working equitation also shone through in their performances at the International Lusitano Show. Empreiteiro and Edmar Brito rose from their 3rd level dressage victory to earn reserve honors in the Preliminary Division, marking the versatility of the Interagro horse. Alexandre Souza and Hector Interagro won the Novice A division; Souza also rode the impressive Eros Interagro to third place in the Novice B division and Feitor Interagro to 4th in the Preliminary division. Feitor, a coming 8-year-old, is the youngest in the division, competing against much more seasoned horses; Eros Interagro, who stands at 16.3h high, demonstrates the agility and athleticism of the Interagro Lusitano. More Lusitanos bred by Interagro also finished in the ribbons, with Dorus Interagro, who was sold at the 2011 Interagro Collection Auction, taking second, and Porfirio Interagro, who was sold at the 1997 TOP Interagro Auction, taking third in the Intermediate division.

While working equitation and dressage are fortes of Interagro’s team, the week before Antonio Souza, Fabio Silva, Valentim Brito, and Ana Carolina Borja took the reins of single and four-in-hand Interagro horses at the 2nd phase of the 2017 Brazilian Driving Championship, held May 20 at Club Hipico Quinta da Baroneza. Souza and the powerful Hospedeiro Interagro blazed to victory in the Single Cones division, while Silva and Canaletto Interagro took second. Brito guided Herbert Interagro to third to secure Interagro’s 1-2-3 victory in the division. Borja and her team grey Lusitanos, which include Viajor Interagro, Semaneiro Interagro, Erva Doce do Top, and Erotica do Top, owned by Alvaro Coelho da Fonseca, proved their proficiency over the tricky four-in-hand cones course, taking first in the Open division.

During the 1st Phase of the Brazilian Driving Championship, held May 8, 2017 at Clube de Campo de Sao Paulo, Interagro’s horses once again dominated, this time in dressage as well as cones. Silva and Canaletto finished first with a 78.87; Souza and Hospedeiro finished second with a 72.90; Brito and Herbert finished third with a 72.31. The cones also saw Souza and Hospedeiro as champion, with Silva and Canaletto in second and Brito and Herbert in fourth. Borja also dominated the four-in-hand cones with Viajor Interagro and Semaneiro Interagro in the harness.

With over 40 years of experience breeding, training, and exporting Lusitanos, Interagro’s mission is to preserve the exceptional bloodlines and qualities of the breed while showcasing their talent, beauty, and intelligence, especially in the FEI and sport horse disciplines. Established in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Gavião Gonzaga, Interagro’s initial vision was to preserve and restore the original foundational Lusitano bloodlines and lineages, many of which were in danger of extinction following the Portuguese Revolution of 1974. Through meticulous breeding, exceptional care, and world-class training, the Interagro Lusitanos of today continue that legacy as they compete across four continents.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website at www.lusitano-interagro.com. To organize a trip to Brazil or for any questions regarding sales or the logistics of importing horses to the US, contact their US Sales Representative, Peter van Borst, at 817 368 9447.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
holly@equinium.com

Interagro Lusitanos Highlight 2nd Phase of Brazilian Working Equitation Championships

Feitor Interagro ridden by Alexandre Souza.

Itapira, SP, Brazil (May 14, 2017) – In a test of speed, precision, agility, and partnership, Brazil’s 2017 Working Equitation Championships combine the country’s passion for horse sport with the traditional working practices of their rich equestrian culture. The horses and riders of Interagro Lusitanos of Itapira, Sao Paulo, Brazil are known for their versatility, excelling in disciplines from driving and dressage to jumping and Paralympic events. This responsiveness to the rider and the athleticism to compete at the international level is what grants the Interagro Lusitano success in working equitation. In late April, Interagro’s team traveled to Hipica Manege Alphaville in Santana de Parnaiba, Brazil for the second round of championship working equitation competition.

Working equitation tests the horse and rider partnerships in three phases: dressage, speed, and ease of handling, which get progressively more complicated as the riders advance. At levels ranging from Cavalos Novos A, or Novice A division for horses new to working equitation, to the more advanced Preliminary and Intermediate levels, Interagro bred horses consistently ranked at the top of the standings. Hector Interagro, with Alexandre Souza at the reins, finished first in the Novice A division for the second time this year. Tackling a variety of obstacles and challenges requiring focus, athletic ability, and faith in his rider, Hector Interagro, at only 6 years old, displayed the poise and talent typical of Interagro’s herd. With Phase 2 only being the gelding’s second show, the elegant grey also finished at the top of the Novice A division during the first phase of the 2017 Working Equitation Championships in March.

Helio, Herodotus, and Heliodoro Interagro, three more of Interagro’s H generation 6-year-olds, also competed to top finishes in Novice A. Helio Interagro and Johnny Miranda put in a fast and accurate performance to finish third, while Herodotus and Heliodoro, piloted by Edmar Brito and Fabio Lombardo Jr., finished fourth and fifth. Heliodoro Interagro was sold as a yearling in the 2012 Interagro Yearlings Auction and is now owned by Alexandre Siqueira. The Novice B division saw Alexandre Souza pilot another Interagro horse to a top finish; this time aboard the impressive Eros Interagro, Souza captured 6th place.

Helio Interagro and Johnny Miranda

In the Preliminary division, where technical requirements and complexity of the courses demand more of each combination, Souza also guided Feitor Interagro to third place. Feitor was the youngest horse in the class at 8 years old, was competing against much more mature horses up to 14 years old. The winners of the Preliminary division, Xama Comando SN and Rafael Grumann, held a connection to Interagro as Xama, a powerful buckskin, was sired by one of Interagro’s top breeding stallions, Nicola MAC.

The Intermediate and Open Amateur divisions also hosted a number of horses bred, sold, or related to Interagro. Colirio das Mangueiras, a son of Tufao Interagro and Venus Interagro owned by Haras das Mangueiras, finished second in the Intermediate class with Sergio Antunes de Oliveira at the reins. Third and fourth went to two more Interagro breds, Bilbo Interagro and Porfirio Interagro, both ridden by Marcio Aparecido de Almeida and owned by Haras das Mangueiras. In the Open Amateurs, Fronteiro Interagro and Jose Luis Fernandes finished fourth overall. Fronteiro is the maternal brother of the Novice A victor Hector Interagro, and was sold during the 2010 Interagro Yearling Auction. Xama Comando SN, the son of Nicola MAC who was victorious in the Preliminary division, also made his mark in the Open Amateurs. Maria Isabel Casimiro piloted Xama, who is owned by Coudelaria Amour e Cura, to a fifth place finish.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website. To organize a trip to Brazil or for any questions regarding sales or the logistics of importing horses to the US, contact their US Sales Representative, Peter van Borst, at 817 368 9447.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
holly@equinium.com
www.equinium.com
954 205 7992

Generations of Interagro Talent Showcased at Brazilian Working Equitation Championships

Hanibal Interagro and Johnny Miranda (Photos by Interagro Lusitanos)

Itapira, SP, Brazil (April 5, 2017) – Early March’s Brazilian sunshine set the mood for a group of Interagro Lusitanos at Haras de Mangueiras in Itapira, where the country’s top working equitation horses and riders vied for top placings in the first phase of the 2017 Brazilian Working Equitation Championships. A sport based on the daily activities and tasks required of working horses, the discipline consists of three demanding phases: dressage, speed, and ease of handling. The Brazilian training center and stud, Interagro Lusitanos, brought a number of horse and rider combinations to expand their already impressive resume of working equitation successes, and from young horses at their first show to more experienced mounts advancing through the levels, the long list of Interagro horses in the ribbons continues to grow.

Two young protégés of Interagro’s training and breeding program, Hector Interagro and Hanibal Interagro, made their debut show appearance at the Championships. With Alexandre Souza in the saddle, Hector Interagro finished first in the Novice A Division after a spectacular performance that drew high praise from the judges. As the full brother of Baldor Interagro, an FEI dressage champion at the Small Tour and budding Grand Prix talent, Hector displayed his sibling’s talent and intelligence through all three phases. Johnny Miranda piloted Hanibal Interagro to 3rd place in the same division, Novice A, rounding out two top finishes for the grey Lusitanos. Another pair of more experienced Interagro horses, Feitor Interagro and Divisadero Interagro, made their premier performance in the Preliminary and Master classes, kicking off advanced working equitation careers.

Interagro’s prowess as a breeder was also accented as a number of horses sold to private buyers or at previous Interagro national auctions also made their mark in the working equitation arena. Heliodoro Interagro, owned by Alexandre Siqueira and sold during the 13th Annual Interagro Yearling Auction in 2012, was a welcome sight for his Interagro family. He competed in the Novice A Division with Fábio Rogério Lombardo Jr in the saddle, finishing 4th. Porfirio Interagro, stunning and competitive at 21 years young, represented the eldest generation of Interagro horses competing at the working equitation championships with his amateur rider Suely Moraes. Porfirio was sold as a 2-year-old in 1997.

Porfirio Interagro

With over 40 years of experience breeding, training, and exporting Lusitanos, Interagro’s mission is to preserve the exceptional bloodlines and qualities of the breed while showcasing their talent, beauty, and intelligence, especially in the FEI and sport horse disciplines. Established in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Gavião Gonzaga, Interagro’s initial vision was to preserve and restore the original foundational Lusitano bloodlines and lineages, many of which were in danger of extinction following the Portuguese Revolution of 1974. Through meticulous breeding, exceptional care, and world-class training, the Interagro Lusitanos of today continue that legacy as they compete across four continents.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website. To organize a trip to Brazil or for any questions regarding sales or the logistics of importing horses to the US, contact their US Sales Representative, Peter van Borst, at 817 368 9447.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
holly@equinium.com
www.equinium.com
954 205 7992

Arte Ecuestre: Interagro Lusitanos Showcased at Haras Godiva’s Celebration of the Horse

Mauricio Delucchi and Desordeiro Interagro (Photo courtesy of Interagro Lusitanos)

Jose Ignacio, Uruguay (February 11, 2017) – At the junction of performance and art lies Arte Ecuestre. Combining the unbounded beauty of South America’s eastern coast with an unbridled passion for the equine, this yearly celebration of the horse brings lifelong equestrians and newly discovered fanatics alike a spectacular exhibition of sport, culture, and entertainment. Presented January 12, 2017 by Zuercher Kantonalbank, Haras Godiva welcomed over 130 guests to the equestrian estate, which doubles as elite training center and stunning equestrian retreat.

The six acts of Arte Ecuestre correspond to the six disciplines presented in the performance: dressage, gaucho, driving, vaulting, jumping, and the Pas de Trois. With each act set to music and reflecting the diversity of equestrian sport, the grace and elegance of dressage to the heritage of the gaucho, the stars, of course, are the horses. For the dressage and driving acts, three Lusitano horses bred and owned by Interagro Lusitanos of Brazil epitomized the power, precision, and beauty inherent in these FEI disciplines. Trained and ridden by Mauricio Delucchi, Bailos Interagro and Desordeiro Interagro demonstrated dressage as a Freestyle and a Pas de Trois. Bailos Interagro, living up to his name, danced his way through the Grand Prix movements under the guidance of Delucchi, while Delucchi and Desordeiro, who is schooled through the Prix St. Georges, performed alongside Haras Godiva’s founder and owner Carolin Mallmann aboard Cesar Itapua and Paulina Morales with Capricho Itapua in a Pas de Trois set to the music of Strauss.

As a complement to the synchronized movements and elegance of the dressage, Argentine National Champion Carl Facht, with Josefina Frederick riding shotgun, piloted Zamorim Interagro through a thrilling demonstration of the obstacle phase of driving. Galloping through the elaborate course to the upbeat rhythm of techno, Zamorim’s agility and athleticism were highlighted by both Facht’s talented driving and the golden glow of the setting sun.

Zamorim Interagro being piloted by Argentinian driving champion Carl Facht at Arte Ecuestre (Photo courtesy of Haras Godiva)

Uruguay’s Martin Rodriguez, a veteran the 2011 and 2015 Pan American Games and 2014 World Equestrian Games, showcased the discipline of showjumping with the P’Compadre Concalma, while Paulina Morales guided Sopresa through the bursts of speed and tight turns of the gaucho performance, a traditional display of South American horsemanship. Luciana Bidarte, Maria Eugenia Marmol, Marina Stapff, and Sofia Rabaquino presented the teamwork, rhythm, and athleticism of gymnastics on horseback, with Josefina Estavillo as coach and lunger, to round out Arte Ecuestre’s six acts.

With over 40 years of experience breeding, training, and exporting Lusitanos, Interagro’s mission is to preserve the exceptional bloodlines and qualities of the breed while showcasing their talent, beauty, and intelligence, especially in the FEI and sport horse disciplines. Established in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Gavião Gonzaga, Interagro’s initial vision was to preserve and restore the original foundational Lusitano bloodlines and lineages, many of which were in danger of extinction following the Portuguese Revolution of 1974. Through meticulous breeding, exceptional care, and world-class training, the Interagro Lusitanos of today continue that legacy as they compete across four continents.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website at www.lusitano-interagro.com or follow them on Facebook. To organize a trip to Brazil or for any questions regarding sales or the logistics of importing horses to the US, contact their US Sales Representative, Peter van Borst at 817 368 9447.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
holly@equinium.com

Interagro Lusitanos Wraps Up 2016 with Wins in Driving, Dressage, Paradressage, Working Equitation

Antonio Mariano de Souza secured the Brazilian Four-in-Hand Driving Championship with four Interagro horses: Cagliostro, Comanche, Democrito and Crispim.

Itapira, Sao Paulo, Brazil (January 19, 2017) – 2016 was a spectacular year for the Lusitano sport horse, as the versatile breed continues to curry favor among riders, trainers, and owners across a variety of disciplines. Through over 40 years of exceptional breeding and a dedication to evolving the modern Lusitano from the purest Portuguese bloodlines, Interagro Lusitanos has been a major catalyst for the breed’s growth and success over the past few decades. With successful Interagro progeny winning in working equitation, driving, dressage, and paradressage, the Brazilian stud and training facility continues to raise the bar as their horses compete internationally across 4 continents.

Interagro’s most recent win was earned in December, where Antonio Mariano de Souza secured the Brazilian Four-in-Hand Driving Championship with four Interagro horses: Cagliostro, Comanche, Democrito and Crispim. He was joined in the winner’s circle at the Driving Championships by Valentim Martins Brito, who secured the Pairs Reserve Championship with Comache Interagro and Crispim Interagro, and Fabio Roberto da Silva, who finished third in the pairs with Cagliostro Interagro and Democrito Interagro.

In addition to the driving phases, working equitation proved to be a major forte for Interagro and its riders in 2016. The 2016 Brazilian Working Equitation Championship/Cia de ET saw Gotico Interagro (Profano Interagro x Zibelina Interagro) and Divisadero Interagro (Tufao Interagro x Saranga (VAN)) top the national rankings in their divisions. Gotico was awarded 2016 Championship Brazilian Ranking in the Novice A Division, while Divisadero also topped the 2016 Brazilian Ranking in the Intermediate division. Escudeiro Interagro (Perdigueiro (MAC) x Athena Interagro), who was purchased at the 2013 Interagro National Auction by Mrs. Claudia Uenishi, rounded out the Interagro string of successes with Jose Faria in the saddle. In the beginning of 2016 and on a different continent, Working Equitation World Cup Champion Xaveco Interagro (Profano Interagro x Dona RC) repeated his World Cup success at the 2016 Haras Cup, the premier Working Equitation Championships in the United States. Hosted by Haras dos Cavaleiros of Magnolia, Texas, Xaveco was piloted by France’s Claire Moucadel and dominated in all three phases of the event.

Baldor Interagro and Pia Aragao (Photo courtesy of Ambar Dressage)

Interagro’s long list of Brazilian rankings extend into the dressage arena, where Baldor Interagro (Ofensor (MV) x Quinata Interagro) and Fellini Interagro (Nirvana Interagro x Batina Interagro) dominated their FEI divisions. Baldor and Pia Aragao swept the Small Tour at the Sao Paulo CDI-3/Brazilian Dressage Championships with a personal best score of 72.350 in their Freestyle. Fellini, also ridden and trained by Aragao, took top honors in the CAN National Dressage in Sao Paulo in May with scores of 8.20 and 7.18 in the FEI 6-Year-Old division, and won the Brazilian 6-Year-Old Championship at the Sao Paulo CDI-3 with final scores of 7.14 and 7.50.

Perhaps the highlight of Interagro’s slew of wins in 2016 was the achievement of Zizifo Interagro, who along with rider Patricio Guglialmelli of Argentina and owner Gea Einaudi of Italy qualified for and competed in the 2016 Rio Games. Competing for Argentina in the Paradressage, Zizifo’s accomplishment in the Paralympics marks a major milestone for Interagro, who through their breeding program has actively sought to develop a horse with the athleticism and temperament to compete in the upper echelons of horse sport.

In the spring of 2016, 5 of Interagro’s stallions were approved by the ABPSL Stud Book. Caudilho Interagro and Gladiador Interagro, who were presented for revision by internationally renowned Portuguese trainer and competitor Jorge Sousa, topped the field with scores of 75 and 74.5. Fellini Interagro finished with a score of 74, while Ditador Interagro and Empreiteiro Interagro earned 72 and 68.5.

In the United States, two of Interagro’s exported stallions also were successful in their revisions, with one making history as the highest score ever received in the US. Hobbit Interagro (Bungo Interagro x Radiosa (MAC)) and Governador Interagro (Ofensor (MV) x Quantia Interagro), both owned by Haras do Cavaleiros, were evaluated at the North American Lusitano Show by three judges: one from Brazil, one from France, and one from the ABPSL. Hobbit’s score of 76.5 is the highest score ever awarded to a Lusitano in the United States, following more than 200 horse revisions. Governador’s impressive score of 71 brought more acclaim for Interagro horses in North America.

Despite a lackluster Brazilian economy, the resounding success of Interagro’s 2016 Yearling Auction proved that the demand for exceptional Lusitano horses has not waned. With all but 2 fillies sold and an average price higher than 2015, the Yearling Auction also boasted a high turnout of Lusitano enthusiasts. With a number of unique and rare lineages represented in the auction barn, the average selling price of this year’s auction finished at 16,933 Brazilian reals, or approximately 5,187 US dollars. The elegant Ministro Interagro brought in 2016’s price highlight, selling for 42,000 Brazilian reals (USD 12,865).

With over 40 years of experience breeding, training, and exporting Lusitanos, Interagro’s mission is to preserve the exceptional bloodlines and qualities of the breed while showcasing their talent, beauty, and intelligence, especially in the FEI and sport horse disciplines. Established in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Gavião Gonzaga, Interagro’s initial vision was to preserve and restore the original foundational Lusitano bloodlines and lineages, many of which were in danger of extinction following the Portuguese Revolution of 1974. Through meticulous breeding, exceptional care, and world-class training, the Interagro Lusitanos of today continue that legacy as versatile, athletic, and intelligent partners for their riders and successful competitors on the international stage.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website at www.lusitano-interagro.com or follow them on Facebook. To organize a trip to Brazil or for any questions regarding sales or the logistics of importing horses to the US, contact their US Sales Representative, Peter van Borst at 817 368 9447.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
www.equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
954 205 7992