Mangalarga Marchador

The national horse of Brazil, the Mangalarga Marchador is found in many countries around the world. The roots of this Iberian breed go back to the Andalusians of Portugal and Barb mares. With a smooth and steady walk, as well as a canter and gallop, this breed also has a natural diagonal or lateral four-beat gait with a momentary triple hoof support. The diagonal gait is themarcha batida, and the lateral one s themarcha picada. The Mangalarga Marchador makes an excellent sport horse. It is receptive to training and performs well in dressage or jump. It also makes a superb riding horse. This breed developed through the efforts of the Baron of Alfenas, Francisco Gabriel Junqueira. He mixed the Royal Alter breed from Portugal with the common horses of Brazil (a mix including Barbs). Horses called Sublimes were developed. Other bloodlines were introduced into the mix. Later on, these horses became the Mangalarga and Mangalarga Marchador breeds. When it comes to appearance, the Mangalarga Marchador is proportionally built. It has a deep chest, strong legs, and a smooth coat. It is a very comfortable horse to ride with its ability to smoothly transition from a natural march to a canter.