HorsesDaily®

Merrimac, MA - The Sons of the Wind School of Equestrian Arts is currently gearing up for their third annual Lusitano Festival, scheduled for Saturday, June 4, 2011. This year, the Pride of Portugal; The Lusitano, joins the "Ride for Life". This exciting event showcases the beautiful Lusitano horses and highlights the amazing Portuguese culture, and will now also be helping to try and raise $50,000 for the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation for Breast Center. Each year during the "Ride for Life," Sons of the Wind demonstrates the quadrilles and athletic aires above the ground to the thousands in attendance for this worthwhile cause.

When a Hackney enters the show ring you know it! With their high stepping trot, powerful hind quarters and bright eyed intelligence, Hackneys have star quality like no other. The history of the Hackney dates back to the 1760's in England. This breed was favored for its fast paced trot and ability to carry a heavy man great distances at speeds of 16-17 mph. They were sought after for breeding in many European countries to improve their military stock. Crosses with Hackneys have contributed to breeds such as the Gelderlander, Dutch Warmblood, Friesian, Standardbred and American Saddlebred.  

There is a reason that most of the horses used in the entertainment world are American Saddlebreds. They are one of the most willing and personable breeds and are known as friendly, intelligent and very people oriented.  Saddlebreds range in size from 15-17 hands and come in all colors. Their long, sloping pasterns give a spring to their stride, making them very comfortable to ride.

Check out the latest H&H subscription offers >>A zebra in Texas is earning his stripes — by trying some showjumping.  When six-year-old Zack the zebra kept jumping out of his field, his owner Sammi Jo Stohler from Willis, Texas decided to put his talent to use. And he took easily to the jumps she put up for him.