Tag Archives: Interagro Lusitanos

Zulu Interagro Brings Equine Chic to Allure’s December Issue

Zulu Interagro and Gigi Hadid in the December issue of Allure Magazine. (Photo courtesy of Allure/Conde Nast)

New York, NY (December 6, 2016) – Chiseled features, lustrous locks, and elegant forms are typical of any photo shoot for Allure magazine, and in the 2016 December issue an equine supermodel sported his ravishing good looks alongside 2015 Model of the Year Gigi Hadid for Allure’s feature spread. The 21-year-old Hadid posed au naturel while reclining on Zulu (who was also au naturel) in a stunning black and white image that has become the cover photo for Allure magazine’s Facebook page as of mid-November. Hadid, who is also the 2016 December issue cover girl, appears at ease on the 14-year-old Lusitano gelding, despite the lack of clothes. Zulu’s photogenic baroque appearance and laid back attitude made him the epitome of the equine supermodel.

Bred by Interagro Lusitanos of Sao Paulo, Brazil, Zulu Interagro (Profano Interagro x Trovoada Interagro) was imported to the US in 2008 as part of the Lusitano Collection International Horse Auction held in Wellington, Florida. Zulu’s owner, Athene von Hirschberg, came to the Auction looking for a versatile, compact, athletic horse and found what she was looking for in Zulu. Over the years she and Zulu have competed up to the FEI levels in dressage, working equitation, 15-mile rides, hunter paces, and eventually began his career as an equine supermodel. Zulu’s photogenic qualities were first utilized by Italian fashion designer Emilio Pucci, who featured the black horse in a spread at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, posing with two models in Pucci’s flagrant designs on the polo fields. Von Hirschberg’s friendship with Cari Swanson of Cari Swanson Productions, which has provided horses for major motion pictures such as Hidalgo, Winter’s Tale, and The Horse Whisperer, served as the catalyst to launch Zulu’s modeling career into the big leagues. Swanson received the casting call for a horse of Zulu’s temperament and appearance for the major international fashion magazine, and von Hirschberg was more than happy to oblige.

“He handled the entire ordeal like a pro,” said von Hirschberg. “Obviously he was required to stand and remain calm for a long period of time, with people in various positions and bright camera flashes, but he took it all in stride and even got bored and began nibbling on his handlers. His personality and athleticism set him apart, and he really does anything I ask of him.”

In addition to competing through the Prix St. Georges level in dressage, Zulu has also been a champion competitor in working equitation, a discipline mirroring the techniques utilized by working horse and rider pairs and requiring a diverse range of talents. For Zulu’s breeder, his combination of beauty, athleticism, trainability, and an exceptional temperament are a reflection of their breeding program, which has spent over 40 years carefully developing the modern Lusitano sporthorse. Zulu’s sire, Profano Interagro, is a son of the famous Legendario do Mirante. Legendario’s sire, Novilheiro MV, made history in some of the most prestigious show jumping arenas of Europe under the guidance of Olympic Silver Medalist John Whitaker. The Lusitano stallion was an international show jumping champion and one of the most famous Lusitanos of all time, with a career that included winning the British Showjumping Championship and leading the European rankings for prize money earned. Profano’s influence in many Interagro pedigrees has yielded top performing dressage, driving, and equitation horses, including a 2016 Rio Paralympic mount in Zizifo Interagro.

Zulu Interagro in a solo shoot at Interagro Lusitanos in Sao Paulo, Brazil with famed equestrian photographer, Bob Langrish (Photo courtesy of Bob Langrish)

But despite their accomplishments in the show ring, Zulu’s ancestors probably never had a nude supermodel lounging on their backs, a unique and impressive addition to the resume of Interagro’s progeny.

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.

Click here to read more about Zulu’s shoot for Allure.

Visit Allure on Facebook to see Zulu as their cover photo.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website 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.

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

Brazilian-Bred Zizifo Interagro to Make Paralympic Debut in 2016 Rio Games

Zizifo Interagro, ridden by Patricio Guglialmelli, compete in Paradressage at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France. (Photo courtesy of Scoopdyga/Pierre Costabadie)

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (August 28, 2016) – All eyes are on Brazil as the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games make their South American debut in Rio de Janeiro, and one equine will be making the most of his home field advantage. Zizifo Interagro (Profano Interagro x Meiga (MAC)), a bay stallion born and bred at Interagro Lusitanos of Sao Paulo, Brazil has been named, along with his rider Pautricio Gugliamelli, to compete for Argentina in the Paralympic dressage competition. As one of just a few Brazilian bred horses competing in the Games, Zizifo and Guglialmelli will enjoy a large cheering section as they vie for a medal against the best Paralympic competitors in the world.

The pair aren’t strangers to international success, having represented Argentina in numerous Paralympic competitions, including the 2014 World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France. Zizifo was purchased from Interagro in 2012 by Gia Einaudi, who was looking for an international caliber dressage horse with the temperament, gaits, and rideability to be successful on the world stage in paradressage. Einaudi exported Zizifo to Italy, where he was paired with Guglialmelli. It became immediately apparent that Zizifo was the perfect match, and they soon began to build an impressive resume.

In the hands of trainer Alessandro Benedetti, who also shows the horse competitively at 3rd and 4th level, Zizifo and Gugialmelli recently put in top performances at the Sommacampagna CPEDI3* in Verona, Italy. Einaudi attributes Zizifo’s exceptional success to his extraordinary character and talent, which is a reflection of over 40 years of careful breeding at Interagro. With a focus on athleticism, movement, temperament, and intelligence, Interagro has succeeded in preserving some of the purest and most sought after lineages of the Lusitano, while simultaneously developing a horse with the raw talent, versatility, and character to succeed in the FEI disciplines.

Zizifo’s Paralympic debut will stand as living proof of Interagro’s legacy, as he and Guglialmelli trot into the Olympic stadium in Rio. “It is Zizifo’s willingness to please and charisma that sets him apart,” said Einaudi. “He requires us to be very precise and correct in training and during competition, which keeps him relaxed and open-minded even in the stress of major international events. Alessandro [Benedetti] has been instrumental in the Zizifo and Patricio’s success, and despite having the demeanor and poise to compete paradressage, under Alessandro Zizifo easily switches gears to the power and elegance of upper level dressage.”

In fact, Benedetti and Zizifo recently debuted at the D1 Level in Italy, comparable to 4th Level in the United States, and won a national competition in Tuscany. Utilizing a careful balance of training in both paradressage and dressage, Einaudi team continues to build Zizifo’s strength and form for Rio. Once they reached the FEI world ranking and competed at the World Equestrian Games in Normandy in 2014, the pair began qualifying for the Paralympics. Three CPEDI competitions yielded the required scores to qualify them for the Games, and in June it was officially announced that Guglialmelli and Zizifo Interagro would compete for Argentina in Rio. With regular training under Benedetti and sessions with Olympian Morten Thompson, in addition to conditioning, a strict diet, and the care of numerous equestrian industry professionals, Zizifo is well on his way to Rio, and the journey brings him closer to his first home in Sao Paulo.

“Needless to say Zizifo means the world to us,” said Einaudi. “He has opened up a world of possibilities, and thanks to him we have achieved more than we ever thought possible in dressage and paradressage. We believe that Zizifo is a once in a lifetime horse!”

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.

Interagro Lusitanos Capture Top Honors at Sao Paulo CDI-3*

Fellini Interagro (Photo courtesy of Tupa)

Itapira, Sao Paulo, Brazil (June 20, 2016) – April, May, and June have seen nothing but victory for Interagro Lusitanos of Brazil, with their team of horses and riders topping national and international classes in a variety of disciplines including working equitation, stallion licensing tests, and FEI dressage. Back to back, nearly weekly wins over the past few months are the most recent in a string of accolades won that have already made 2016 a banner year for the Brazilian-based stud farm. With the breeding season just beginning, Interagro’s living legacy for the modern Lusitano sporthorse continues to blossom in the competition arena and set the standard for the Portuguese breed on the world stage.

Baldor Interagro (Ofensor (MV) x Quinata Interagro) swept the Small Tour during the Sao Paulo CDI-3, held June 2-5, 2016, exemplifying the grace, athleticism, and poise required to compete and win in the upper echelons of dressage. Ridden and trained by Pia Aragao, the victory marks the gray stallion’s second sweep of the Small Tour classes, as the pair topped Sao Paulo’s first CDI-3 in March of 2016. In addition to his athletic ability and intelligence, Aragao, who has trained the stallion since 2010, cites Baldor’s presence and attitude as one of his biggest strengths: “This horse enjoys the spotlight, and when he enters the arena his beauty and personality are hard to miss! Nothing is difficult for him and I’m really looking forward to moving him to the Grand Prix. Collection is his forte, typical of the Lusitano, and I think he will be even more successful when he can really collect for the piaffe and passage.”

The pair received a personal best score of 72.350% in their freestyle, which includes up-beat, popular music from the hit show Glee. “The degree of difficulty in our freestyle is quite high, especially a line of two-tempis on the centerline that are bookended by pirouettes,” said Aragao. “The changes have to be perfectly straight for the judges, and while we had a lot that could be improved upon, I was thrilled with his rideability and our overall performance.”

Baldor Interagro ridden by Pia Aragao (Photo courtesy of Martina Brandes)
Baldor Interagro ridden by Pia Aragao (Photo courtesy of Martina Brandes)

Interagro’s prowess in the dressage arena also extends to the FEI Young Horse divisions, where the elegant black stallion, Fellini Interagro (Nirvana Interagro x Batina Interagro), has been racking up impressive scores in the 6-Year-Old classes. Fellini, also ridden and trained by Aragao, topped both of his classes with final scores of 7.14 and 7.50 at the Brazilian Dressage Championships, held in tandem with the Sao Paulo CDI-3*. In May, the pair took top honors in the FEI Six-Year-Old division at the CAN National Dressage in Sao Paulo with scores of 8.20 and 7.18.

Following his wins in May and leading up to his recent success at the Brazilian Championships, Fellini added a few more accolades to his brief but decorated show career at the International Lusitano Show in Tatui, Sao Paulo, Brazil: he and four other Interagro stallions were approved by the ABPSL Stud Book. Two of the stallions, Caudilho Interagro and Ditador Interagro, were presented for licensing by internationally renowned Portuguese trainer and competitor Jorge Sousa, and all of the stallions and their handlers spent a week in preparation with Sousa for the International Lusitano Show. Caudilho Interagro and Gladiador Interagro topped the field with scores of 75 and 74.5, with Fellini just a hairsbreadth away with a score of 74. Ditador Interagro and Empreiteiro Interagro were also licensed with scores of 72 and 68.5. Fellini wrapped up the International Lusitano Show by winning the FEI 6-Year-Old class with a 7.52, a victory that names him the 2016 6-Year- Old Champion of the State of Sao Paulo.

Sired by one of Interagro’s most successful Grand Prix dressage competitors, Fellini inherited Nirvana Interagro’s temperament, conformation, and exceptional gaits, which give him a winning edge in the show ring. “He has no weakness in his gaits,” stated Aragao. “His uphill canter and freedom through the shoulder are what make him standout as a dressage prospect and future breeding stallion. He and Nirvana are also very similar in their personality: very intelligent, easy to work with, and true performers. They love attention, both in and out of the show ring.” With Fellini schooling 3- and 4- tempis, as well as working pirouettes, Aragao plans to continue to develop the young stallion up the levels to the FEI.

Also in May, Aragao was recognized for her success in 2015 aboard another Interagro stallion, Zepelim Interagro. The pair was awarded the prestigious Special Senior Top honors from the Premio Brasil Hipismo 2015 for their performances at the Grand Prix level.

With waves being made in the dressage arena, Interagro’s working equitation accolades also continued to grow. Following Xaveco Interagro’s clinching of the Working Equitation World Cup at the end of 2015 and a week of preparation with Jorge Sousa, the second phase of the 2016 Brazilian Working Equitation Championship saw Feitor Interagro, ridden by Alexandre Souza, dominate the Young Horse B division, while Gotico Interagro and Divisadero Interagro, both ridden by Johnny Miranda, secured reserve champion in the Young Horse A and Intermediate division. Based in the daily activities and tasks required by working horses, the discipline was created with the objective of enhancing the equestrian techniques utilized by horses and riders in various aspects of ranch and field work. Blending power, agility, and rideability, many of the traits that make Interagro’s Lusitanos successful as sporthorses also cross over to working equitation.

Interagro’s success in the national and international show ring is a testament to their breeding program, a legacy over 40 years in the making. Established by Dr. Paulo Gavião Gonzaga in 1975, Interagro’s mission 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, Interagro evolved the exceptional qualities of the Lusitano breed while showcasing their talent, beauty, and intelligence, giving rise to a modern Lusitano sporthorse that excels in the FEI disciplines. Today their legacy continues as their horses compete across four continents.

For more information on the Lusitano bloodlines, Interagro’s breeding program, or horses for sale, visit Interagro’s website.

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

Interagro Lusitanos Honored at Troféu Eficiência 2015

Zepelim Interagro, winner of the 2015 Troféu Eficiência, competing at the Global Dressage Festival in 2015 (Photos courtesy of Interagro Lusitanos)

Baldor Interagro and Pia Aragão Sweep Small Tour at CDI3* Sao Paulo

Itapira, Sao Paulo, Brazil (March 22, 2016) – From national rankings to CDI victory, Interagro Lusitanos built upon its already decorated history of show ring success over a banner weekend in late March of 2016. Multiple Interagro horses were honored for their performances in 2015 at the Troféu Eficiência, a regionally focused, yearly ranking that encompasses the entire state of Sao Paulo, while Brazilian and Swedish rider Pia Aragão swept the Small Tour at a the CDI3* Sao Paulo with Baldor Interagro, demonstrating their prowess in the upper echelons of international dressage.

Organized and presented by the governing equestrian federation of the state of Sao Paulo, the Troféu Eficiência ranking encompasses six equestrian disciplines and a variety of categories and levels. For the dressage ranking, which incorporates a minimum of 4 competitions, scores from horse and rider partnerships are averaged and ranked over the course of the year, with the highest being honored and recognized as exceptional through the Troféu Eficiência. Of Troféu Eficiência 2015’s 13 categories, 11 were presented to Lusitanos. Of that 11, horses bred by Interagro won two of the rankings: the Grand Prix and 5-Year-Old Division, highlighting the range and talent of the farm’s equine athletes.

Zepelim Interagro, bred and owned by Interagro Lusitanos and ridden by Pia Aragão, was in the limelight during the ceremonies with the highest combined average in the Grand Prix division. The elegant grey stallion (Quinárius Interagro x Ordenada Interagro) has also earned the top Brazilian national ranking in the Grand Prix, and will be officially presented with the award in May. The partnership of Zepelim and Aragão is well known to the Troféu Eficiência, as in 2013 Aragão and Zepelim were presented with the Sao Paulo ranking for the Small Tour, and as a young horse the talented stallion won the prize as both a 5- and 6-year-old. Aragão has also been the recipient of the Troféu Eficiência ranking many times with various horses at various levels, including Baldor Interagro, Vade Mecum Interagro, and Nirvana Interagro. Finório Interagro (Quixote Interagro x Altamira Interagro), ridden by Sara Godoy for Haras Crystal, won the FEI 5-Year-Old division, highlighting the talented young horse’s skills in dressage.

Baldor Interagro and Pia Aragão competing at the 2015 Global Dressage Festival
Baldor Interagro and Pia Aragão competing at the 2015 Global Dressage Festival

“It is always an honor to win the Troféu Eficiência, and to be recognized for your accomplishments in this art and for your knowledge of the sport,” said Aragão. “Zepelim had a great year in 2015, scoring the highest in our Grand Prix Freestyle, and I’m looking forward to continuing to develop him in 2016.” Aragão bookended the honor of receiving 2015’s Troféu Eficiência with three days of victory at the CDI3* Sao Paulo with Baldor Interagro. The pair swept the Small Tour with scores through 68% in the Prix St. Georges, Intermediaire I, and Intermediaire I Freestyle. Fresh off a long summer break, Baldor stepped right back into the show arena in winning form despite only 5 Small Tour starts in 2015 and a season of breeding in Brazil. “Because he had such a long time out of the international competition arena, he was a bit fresh and lost his concentration the first day,” said Aragão. “But in general he was fantastic to ride, with the mind, athleticism, and movement to be a competitor at this high level of dressage. My goals going forward are to build on this with the end result of increasing our scores and producing more wins.”

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, to view their 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 5914.

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

Unicorns for HD Electricity: Desordeiro Interagro Stars in UK Commercial

Desordeiro Interagro as the unicorn in the First Utility “HD Electricity” commercial (Courtesy of First Utility)

Itapira, Sao Paulo, Brazil (March 21, 2016) – When the silver screen calls for a unicorn, they look no further than the Interagro Lusitano. In a tongue-in-cheek ad for “HD Electricity,” a non-existent, superior power source derived from the conductivity of unicorn horns, the beauty, grace, and elegance of Desordeiro Interagro was selected to depict the mythical creature. First Utility electricity company ran the commercial in the United Kingdom, and the spot featured a herd of unicorns galloping down urban streets through flashes of light and fog to illustrate the satirical power of HD Electricity.

Desordeiro, an 8-year-old gelding by Perdigueiro (MAC) and out of Urzelina Interagro, was selected by an Argentinian based casting agency to depict the unicorn for First Utility based on his classical beauty and intelligence. The gray Lusitano was fitted with a stand in ‘horn,’ which was then altered digitally to become the iconic twisted horn of a unicorn on screen. The electric atmosphere of the set and movements and actions required specialized training in addition to a star with the athleticism, willing attitude, and unflappable disposition to truly bring the unicorn to life.

Trained through Prix St. Georges by Mauricio Delucchi of Delucchi Dressage, Desordeiro also was also schooled in a number of specific actions and movements by Delucchi’s wife, Paulina Morales. Morales also manages the equestrian estate of Haras Godiva in Uruguay, where Desordeiro lives and trains. “The shots of the horses galloping down the street required Desordeiro to learn to canter behind a car rigged with cameras, microphones and technicians, through very intimidating conditions,” said Delucchi. “He really illustrated his ‘bombproof’ nature, staying very calm despite the wind, noises, and commotion of the set.” The script of the commercial also called for Desordeiro to strike a number of poses for the camera, including tossing his head and mane, stopping, and standing despite action and other horses running all around him.

And like any true movie star, Desordeiro had his own stunt double. A similar looking horse was used in his place during a sequence where the herd of unicorns jumps a low obstacle in the street. “We chose to use the double for this scene to reduce the chance of injury for Desordeiro,” said Delucchi. “The jump was to be made on concrete in the dark, with special effects, fog, and lights flashing.” A dangerous situation, even for a unicorn.

With the good looks and temperament to play the mythical horse, Desordeiro also embodies the qualities and characteristics of the modern Interagro Lusitano, most notably trainability and athleticism. Founded in 1975, Interagro’s mission was to reconstruct and preserve the original lineages of the Lusitano horse, many of which were threatened in the aftermath of the Portuguese Revolution of 1974. Through this process, Interagro became the largest breeder of Lusitanos in the world, and the results of their meticulous selection and training programs have manifested the exceptional qualities of the Interagro horse. Interagro’s modern breeding program focuses on the preservation and improvement of the purest Lusitano lineages adapted to the needs and performance demanded by the FEI disciplines, without sacrificing the beauty, intelligence, talent, and incomparable rideability that make the Lusitano horse unique among all other horse breeds. Or in this case, make for an ideal unicorn by reflecting both their classical beauty and nearly magical temperament. “It definitely requires a special kind of horse to bring into this environment and not become overwhelmed,” said Delucchi. “But the commercial turned out fantastic, and was very popular, with over 300,000 views in two days.”

To watch the full First Utility “HD Electricity” commercial starring Desordeiro Interagro, go to http://stink.co/work/hd-electricity/ or for the shortened version on YouTube, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fo69sea6VHw.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, to view their 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 5914.

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

Arte Ecuestre: Interagro Lusitanos Featured in Multi-Discipline Equestrian Showcase

Zamorim Interagro being piloted by Argentinian driving champion Carl Fatch at the Arte Ecuestre (Photo courtesy of Reid Buckley)

José Ignacio, Uruguay (February 20, 2016) – Against a backdrop of sweeping vistas and the Atlantic Ocean, a group of elite equines and their riders performed in a unique equestrian exhibition showcasing the beauty, diversity, and excitement of equestrian sport. The equestrian center and estate of Haras Godiva, and its owner Carolin Mallmann, have hosted the aptly named Arte Ecuestre for the past two years as an invitation only celebration of the horse through six equestrian presentations: a Gaucho exhibition, dressage exhibition, jumping exhibition, pas de deux, barrel racing, and a driving exhibition. An exceptional display of horsemanship and the athletic prowess of the equine, Arte Ecuestre acts as a catalyst to promote elite equestrian art through entertainment.

Held on January 13, 2016, Haras Godiva’s top horses and riders were selected to perform in each of the disciplines, and horses bred by Interagro Lusitanos were featured in both the dressage and driving portions of Arte Ecuestre. The dressage exhibition was presented by Mauricio Delucchi of Delucchi Dressage aboard Bailos Interagro (Noblíssimo Interagro x Dona (RC)) and Desordeiro Interagro (Perdigueiro (MAC) x Urzelina Interagro). Bailos Interagro, who is half-brother to the 2015 Working Equitation World Cup champion Xaveco Interagro, executed the Grand Prix movements under the guidance of Delucchi, while Desordeiro Interagro demonstrated Medium Level, which is equivalent to Third Level in the United States. Two other horses also performed a pas de deux, or ‘steps of two,’ a dressage freestyle featuring two horses and riders in a choreographed dance set to music. Zamorim Interagro (Quinarius Interagro x Mucuna Interagro), with Carl Fatch at the reins, performed a driving exhibition highlighting the precision, strength, and stamina required of driving horses. Fatch, who is the husband of Haras Godiva owner Carolin Mallmann, is an internationally renowned Argentinian driving champion, and Zamorim Interagro is half-brother to the successful Grand Prix dressage competitor, Zepelim Interagro.

Each of the 6 disciplines was well received by the 130 attendees, and following the exhibition, children and spectators were invited into the arena to get up close with the horses. Arte Ecuestre culminated in a cocktail hour and sunset celebration overlooking Haras Godiva’s stunning scenery. “The Arte Ecuestre is an important way for us to connect modern horse sport with the natural beauty of Uruguay and entertain our guests,” said Delucchi, who organizes the event with his wife, Paulina Morales. “The performances of Interagro’s horses are key for the exhibitions, as dressage and driving are very popular in South America and abroad. This year they were again very popular with our guests.”

Bred by Interagro Lusitanos of Itapira, Brazil, Zamorim, Bailos, and Desordeiro epitomize the qualities sought in the modern sport horse: athleticism, trainability, intelligence, and a willing temperament. 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 Arte Ecuestre, visit Haras Godiva’s website or the Arte Ecuestre video produced by Studios Roff on Vimeo.

For more information on Interagro, the stud farm, horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit the Interagro website or follow them on social media.

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

Zerbino Interagro Proves Talent and Temperament at IALHA National Championships

Zerbino Interagro with rider John Zopatti (right) and handler Gary Yeager (left) (Photos courtesy of JRPR)

Lexington, VA (September 18, 2015) – Lusitano gelding Zerbino Interagro proved his breed’s athleticism, talent, and versatility in a variety of classes at the recent International Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association (IALHA) National Championship Show in Lexington, Virginia. The 12-year-old gelding, owned by Johnny Robb and bred by top Brazilian breeder Interagro Lusitanos, excelled in dressage, dressage hack, show hack, halter, and leadline classes.

“It shows a lot about the disposition of the Interagro-bred horses,” Robb said. “They’re bred to be talented sport horses but, most excitedly, they’re bred with a disposition that is second to none. This horse proves it over and over and over again.”

Zerbino and North Carolina-based dressage rider John Zopatti won the National Championship title in the Andalusian/Lusitano Dressage Hack Open. The horse also won the Best Movement medal and placed in the Top Five in the Andalusian/Lusitano Senior Geldings 4 Years and Over class with Gary Yeager handling. In the USDF Dressage Sport Horse Prospects in-hand class, Yeager and Zerbino earned a 70.6000 percent.

As a tribute to the horse’s winning disposition, Zerbino and Yeager’s six-year-old son Ethan won in the Exhibition Leadline Class Riders 8 Years Old and Under class. It was the young Yeager’s first time competing, and Robb said the youngster was ecstatic with his win.

Ethan Yeager aboard Zerbino
Ethan Yeager aboard Zerbino

When Robb took the reins, she ran the horse in a halter class and placed in the Top Five in the National Championship Andalusian/Lusitano Geldings All Ages – Amateur to Handle class. The pair also placed in the Top Five in the Andalusian/Lusitano Show Hack Amateur class, and won the Reserve National Dressage Championship in both the Grand Prix and the Grand Prix Freestyle.

“Interagro specifically breeds for performance and disposition, and he shows that,” Robb proudly said of Zerbino. “He is a different horse in the Grand Prix with me than he is with a leadline class with six-year-old Ethan. He really does the full gamut, from being a very up horse and doing his job at the highest levels, and then becoming a kind schoolmaster for the very youngest rider.”

As a former die-hard Warmblood fan, Robb said she never expected to fall in love with her gray Lusitano – but he quickly won her over. “If anybody told me five years ago I would be riding Lusitanos, owning several Lusitanos, and going to the IALHA Nationals, I would have said, ‘You need to get a new crystal ball!’ But, indeed, they would have been right, and it’s such a joy,” she stated.

Robb not only thanks Peter van Borst of Interagro Lusitanos for introducing her to Zerbino, she also lists a team of trainers, vets and other professionals for helping her along the way. “It really takes a village,” she said. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with three excellent trainers in Kerensa Muller, John Zopatti, and Jaime Amian. I also have to give credit to Zerbino Interagro’s farrier Jim Crew. I’m also thankful to Laura King, the eminent hypnotherapist, who really helped me overcome some of the issues that were in my subconscious. In addition, the Knopp family invited me to train for the summer at IDA Farm in Wellington. Having the covered riding arenas and all the world class amenities including a TheraPlate and Horse Gym treadmill –really helped our fitness and socially it was so much fun there”.

Robb said that her bond with Zerbino, whom she calls ‘Zill’ (short for ‘Zillionaire’), is strong. “Having a horse like this, with a heart like this, and with the ability and training he has, makes me feel like I’m a zillionaire, too,” she said.

Robb has a word of caution for anyone interested in Lusitano horses, and especially those bred by Interagro. “My advice to anyone who starts with these horses is to beware,” she said. “They’re kind of like potato chips. You can’t just have one.”

Interagro is the largest breeder of Lusitano horses in the world, with 40 years of experience breeding Lusitanos. Interagro Lusitanos is committed to preserving the pure bloodlines of the Lusitano breed, and producing star horses like Zerbino Interagro. Interagros own bloodlines include some of the most respected of the breed: Faraó (JHC), Nirvana Interagro, Ofensor (MV), Xique-Xique (CI), and Yacht (SA). Lusitanos from the Brazilian farm have excelled in top world show rings and have graced the covers of international magazines over twenty times. Interagro is one of the most accessible and respected breeders in the world. To learn more, visit www.interagro.com.br.

Contact: Johnny Robb
johnnyrobb@mac.com
561-753-4608

Interagro Lusitanos Celebrates Stellar Season at Adequan Global Dressage Festival

Pia Aragão and Baldor Interagro compete for Brazil in the Stillpoint Farm CDIO3* Nations Cup at the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival (Photo courtesy of Interagro Lusitanos)

Wellington, FL (April 16, 2015) – The world’s largest breeder of Puro Sangue Lusitano (PSL) horses, Interagro Lusitanos, showcased prominent performances during the 2015 winter dressage show season in Wellington, Florida, ending with the iconic Nations Cup. Pia Aragão and Baldor Interagro (Ofensor MV- Quinata Interagro – Xique-Xique), a 9-year-old Lusitano stallion, entered as individual competitors for Brazil in the small tour.

The March 25-28 Stillpoint Farm CDIO3* Nations Cup was the second of six legs of the 2015 FEI Nations Cup series and the top-off to a successful show season for Aragão and Interagro Lusitanos. With impressive scores posted in the FEI Prix St. Georges and the FEI Intermediaire I, Aragão and Baldor continued their successful season that began with their first FEI win in late February.

This was not Interagro Lusitanos’s first entry in the Nations Cup. In 2014, Zerbino Interagro competed with Kerensa Muller for The Netherlands Nations’ Cup Team at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. In the same year, Aragão and Zepelim Interagro were part of the Brazilian team who dominated that year’s South American Games. Argentina, Brazil and Chile each sent a team of dressage riders to Santiago, Chile, to compete for the title of Nations Cup champion and a chance to qualify for the 2015 Pan American Games. Brazil achieved these goals when its team of four riders earned Team Gold with an overall score of 68.279%, besting the second place team, Argentina, by nearly three percentage points.

Aragão and Zepelim also notched winning scores in the FEI Grand Prix and the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle during the twelve-week South Florida season. Zepelim, an 11-year-old stallion (Quinárius Interagro-Ordenada Interagro, Yacht) whose sire is by the famous Xique-Xique, a Gold Medal Champion in Portugal, and whose dam is by Yacht, is the son of the foundation stallion of the Andrade line. The pair claimed win after win during the season, including a 69.063% in the Grand Prix Freestyle at the Palm Beach Dressage Derby National competition.

“Both horses are still beginners at this level,” Aragão said humbly. “Baldor is fairly inexperienced and he’s never been in such a big arena before. It’s a big change for him. My goal was to ride the tests as cleanly as possible to make them confident in the ring and to showcase their quality and potential.”

Aragão brought three Interagro Lusitanos to South Florida from Brazil to give them experience in the international arena. The third horse in the trio to make the trip from Brazil was Vade-Mecum Interagro, a 13-year-old Grand Prix gelding from the Xique-Xique and Yacht lines (Noblissimo Interagro-Pecunia Interagro, Yacht). While Baldor and Zepelim shine in the show ring, Vade-Mecum recently starred in a music video filmed in Wellington at Caroline Roffman’s Lionshare Dressage with internationally successful musician DSharp. After leaving Florida, Aragão and her mounts will return to Brazil to compete and train to ready herself and the horses for the selection trials for the 2015 Pan American Games.

“What is important for me is that they mature in each level before going to the next one. They need to understand their jobs and have fun at work,” Aragão said. “We have a CDI at the end of April and another CDI at the end of May. They are two big events that are in my plans for the next few months.”

The Interagro horses she brought to the U.S. epitomize the best in the modern Lusitano. Interagro Lusitanos, based in Itapira, Brazil, is the largest breeder of Lusitano horses in the world, with 40 years of experience breeding Lusitanos.

The Lusitano horse excels in everything from dressage and driving to working equitation. Interagro is committed to preserving the pure bloodlines of the Lusitano breed, and its own bloodlines include some of the most respected of the breed: Faraó (JHC), Nirvana Interagro, Ofensor (MV), Xique-Xique (CI), and Yacht (SA). Interagro has bred nearly 2300 horses in their 40 years of breeding Lusitanos. Their horses have graced the covers of international magazines 21 times.

Interagro is one of the most accessible and respected breeders in the world. They have hosted 24 national and 7 exclusive international auctions featuring premier Lusitano performance horses, in addition to 14 young horse auctions. Interagro’s Destination Lusitano program offers prospective buyers a chance for a relaxing getaway at the farm in Brazil. At Interagro, riders can enjoy the rolling Brazilian countryside by horseback or rest easy in a carriage pulled by a four-in-hand of Lusitano stallions. Guests can also watch the horses in their daily training sessions, take a lesson on prospective horses, and meet the living pedigree of generations of Lusitano horses. Destination Lusitano is a unique opportunity to purchase the horse of your dreams while enjoying the journey of a lifetime.

About Interagro Lusitanos

Founded in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Gavião Gonzaga to preserve the breed, Interagro Lusitanos is the world’s largest breeder and exporter of Lusitano horses. Dr. Gonzaga started with four mares and one stallion imported to Brazil from the breed’s native Portugal; to date more than 450 horses populate the 1200-acre ranch outside São Paulo. Today, Cecilia Gonzaga manages the farm and operations. To learn more, email interagro@interagro.com, or please visit www.interagro.com.br.

Please go to http://lusitano-interagro.com/Zepelim2010.htm to see Zepelim Interagro’s bloodlines and show record. To learn more about Baldor Interagro, click here: http://lusitano-interagro.com/baldor.htm. Please go to http://lusitano-interagro.com/Vade_Mecum2010.htm to see Vade-Mecum Interagro’s impressive show record and lineage.

Contact: Johnny Robb, JRPR
(561) 290-9668
johnnyrobb@mac.com

Another Country, Another Nations Cup, Another Interagro Lusitano, This Time for Team Gold

The gold medal winning Brazilian Team at the 2014 South American Games. (Photos courtesy of Interagro Lusitanos)

Santiago, Chile (March 14, 2014) – Interagro Lusitanos of Itapira, Brazil makes another appearance in an international competition, and team Brazil takes home gold. On Saturday March 8, three countries competed in the 2014 South American Games Nations Cup in Santiago, Chile, for a chance to qualify for the 2015 Pan American Games. Pia Aragao and her mount Zepelim Interagro were part of the Brazilian team that dominated this year’s South American Games.

Argentina, Brazil, and Chile each sent a team of talented dressage riders to Santiago, Chile on March 8 to compete for the title of Nations Cup champion and a chance to qualify for the 2015 Pan American Games. Brazil achieved these goals when its team of four riders earned the team gold medal with an overall score of 68.279%. They beat the second place team, Argentina, by nearly three points. The riders representing Brazil were Leandro Aparecido da Silva riding Dicaprio, who earned a 69.770%; Joao Victor Oliva riding Xama dos Pinhais with a score of 67.665%; Joao Paulo dos Santos riding Veleiro do Top, scoring 67.402%; and Pia Aragao riding Zepelim Interagro with a score of 66.513%.

If Zepelim Interagro competing in a Nations Cup sounds familiar, it’s probably because a similarly named Lusitano — Zerbino Interagro — competed at the Nations Cup CDIO 3* last month in Wellington, Florida. Both Zepelim Interagro and Zerbino Interagro are Lusitanos bred by the world’s largest breeder and exporter of Lusitanos, Interagro Lusitanos of Itapira, Brazil. Interagro’s own trainer, Pia Aragao, competed Zepelim for Brazil in the South American Games Nations Cup, while Zepelim was ridden by Kerensa Mueller for The Netherlands in the Nations Cup CDIO 3*.

Pia Aragao and Zepelim Interagro
Pia Aragao and Zepelim Interagro

Interagro Lusitanos dedicates itself to producing and training beautiful Lusitanos like Zepelim Interagro and Zerbino Interagro who are prepared to excel in international competition. Since 1975, Interagro Lusitanos has bred well over 2,000 good-tempered, powerful Lusitanos. The facility is currently home to 450 Lusitanos. In 2009, the beautiful farm was named “Lusitano Breeder of the Year” by ABPSL. Interagro’s Lusitanos are bred and trained to be not only successful in dressage but also in driving, jumping, working equitation, and other disciplines. One of the most typical characteristics of the breed is a kind and willing disposition. Lusitanos are also well-known for having smooth gaits, muscular builds, and an ability to excel in various equestrian disciplines.

To learn more about Interagro Lusitanos, the Lusitano breed, and upcoming events, please visit www.lusitano-interagro.com.

Contact Johnny Robb, JRPR
(561) 290-9668
johnnyrobb@mac.com

Interagro Lusitanos Dominate at the Second Lusitano Festival of Avaré

Destinado Interagro at the Second Lusitano Festival of Avaré. (Photos courtesy of Interagro Lusitanos)

Itapira, Brazil (March 13, 2014) – At the Second Lusitano Festival of Avaré on February 18-22, 2014, the breeder and exporter Interagro Lusitanos brought home victories in dressage and driving. The impressive show demonstrated the versatility, athleticism and trainability of the Lusitano breed across a variety of disciplines and levels.

Interagro Lusitanos’s horses placed high in several classes, including dressage, which was held on February 21st. In Second Level Dressage, Edmar M. de Brito rode Eucedo Interagro to tie for first place with a score of 65.345%. Third Level Dressage was won by Interagro’s Dark Lord Interagro, ridden by Patrícia Helena Brito with a score of 65.000%. Second place in that class was Destinado Interagro ridden by Edmar M. de Brito. Highest scoring of the horses from Interagro Lusitanos was Bomilcar Interagro, ridden by his owner Martina I. Brandes. Their score of 66.184% earned them first place in Fourth Level Dressage.

The driving classes of the show, held on February 22nd, were also dominated by Interagro Lusitanos. First place in the cones division in Amateur Advanced/One horse went to Caio Monte Cláudio driving Semaneiro Interagro. Brandes and Bomilcar proved that they are just as talented in driving as in dressage by coming in first in the cones division in Professional/One horse. Another first place in the cones division was earned by Antonio M. de Souza, driving Democrito Interagro, Comanche Interagro, Cadmus Interagro, and Cagliostro Interagro in Professional/Four-in-hand. Interagro’s Lusitanos also took home second and third places in the cones division.

Arges Interagro and Teresa Guzmán of Chile
Arges Interagro and Teresa Guzmán of Chile

The derby division of driving continued to bring successes for Interagro. Chile’s Teresa Guzmán came in first in Professional/one horse, driving Arges Interagro. Second place in Professional/Pair was Antonio M. de Souza driving Cagliostro Interagro and Camus Interagro. The same pair of horses came in third in Professional/Pair driven by Fábio R. da Silva. Brandes and Bomilcar made an appearance in this division, coming in third in Professional/One horse.

The impressive victories at the Second Lusitano Festival of Avaré were not a surprise to the breeders and trainers at Interagro Lusitanos, who work constantly to produce horses that can out-perform their competition. Since 1975, Interagro Lusitanos has bred well over 2,000 talented Lusitanos at their 1,200 acre farm just outside of Itapira, Brazil. In 2009, ABPSL named Interagro “Lusitano Breeder of the Year.”

To learn more about Interagro Lusitanos, the Lusitano breed, Lusitanos that are for sale, and upcoming events, please visit www.lusitano-interagro.com.

Contact Johnny Robb, JRPR
(561) 290-9668
johnnyrobb@mac.com