Paulo Pompéia Gavião Gonzaga and his daughter Cecilia Gonzaga visited South Florida this month to make preparations for the 2009 International Lusitano Collection Auction which will take place February 19 – 20 at the Jim Brandon Equestran Center in Wellington, Florida. During their visit, the Gonzaga’s toured the 26-stall barn in Palm City being constructed exclusively for the Lusitano Collection by Martin Downs Equestrian Center Inc. “They are ahead of schedule,” Dr. Gonzaga reported, “the barn will be ready for the horses following their travels from São Paulo, Brazil, to South Florida in January.”  He further explained how the buyers will by-pass the normal bureaucracy that accompanies importing a horse, like the necessary vaccinations and quarantine period. Each of the 30 Lusitanos will have health certificates, complete x-rays, and beginning on February 12, will be available for riding try-outs by appointment. The highly reputable Palm Beach Equine Clinic will be evaluating all horse x-rays and tests as well as conducting an onsite vet check for all 2009 Lusitano Collection horses. 

“Trained in dressage by professional riders,” Cecilia Gonzaga noted, “these noble horses have been specially selected; they are larger, have an eager-to-please temperament, and best of all, they are not pre-owned. Buyers benefit by buying directly from the breeder.” Whether equestrians seek a pleasure horse for trail riding or a dressage competitor, these Interagro Farms and Coudelaria Rocas de Vouga Lusitanos are trustworthy, brave and versatile. Luiza Almeida, 17-year-old daughter of the Coudelaria Rocas de Vouga stud farm proprietor, rode a Lusitano in the 2008 Olympics, and she is making an appearance at the 2009 Lusitano Collection Auction.

The festivities during the Auction will include a cocktail party followed by the Showcase Parade of Horses into a hacienda-like atmosphere complete with hanging chandeliers, water fountain and lush tropical trees. Guests will be treated to musical entertainment and a gala sit-down dinner during the Auction, as well. Additional information regarding the event and ticket sales may be obtained on-line at www.lusitanocollection.com.

 

 

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