Rare Lusitano Bloodlines Come to the U.S.
Horsemen’s Yankee Pedlar, May, 1998

The ancient and noble horse of the Iberian Peninsula known as the Lusitano of Portugal has a long, history of bravery and athleticism, able to fight with speed and agility as well as perform intricate "high school" dressage movements. Today there are only 107 registered Lusitanos throughout the entire United States. That number was recently increased by five when Vitor Silva of Sons of the Wind Farm in Deerfield, NH, imported two colts and three fillies from Brazil. These future studs and broodmares represent the "best of the best" Lusitano breeding, a strategic crossing of the Veiga and Andrade bloodlines of Portugal. In 1995, Vitor Silva started importing Lusitanos to this country, focusing on the Veiga and Andrade bloodlines. The Veiga strain produces horses with great courage and power, as these horses were bred for the traditional Portuguese bull ring. In addition, the Veiga blood ensures a great mind with profound ability to to work. The Andrade bloodlines produce a larger-sized horse with substantial bone and sturdiness. A crossing of horses carrying the most pure qualities of these two lines results in intelligent, courageous, strong, naturally balanced athletes suited to a variety of disciplines.

According to Vitor, these horses are not only superlative in the dressage arena, but also in reining, show jumping (John Whittaker of England successfully campaigned Novilheiro, his jumping Lusitano, to many distinguished wins worldwide), eventing, and simple pleasure riding. The Lusitano's bravery and intelligence makes him an excellent and safe companion on the trail - riders have reported the Lusitano's unflappable nature when confronted by the unexpected (and scary) elements encountered while out riding. To see and learn more of this spectacular breed, visit Sons of the Wind Farm in Deerfield, NH.