Dancing in the Street: Magnificent Andalusian Horses
Tara A. Spears
A highlight of the Penita Carnival celebration was the appearance each day of the magnificent dancing horses. Yes, the riders in their traditional Mexican outfits topped by wide brimmed hats were handsome and romantic, but it was the strength and beauty of the animal that mesmerized the spectators. Since the first introduction of Spanish horses in the 15th century, Mexicans became expert horsemen and ranchers. Since then, Mexican culture has been indelibly intertwined with the horse. The horse and cowboy (vaquero) are still revered as a symbol of Mexican pride in overcoming invaders and revolutions while retaining national dignity. Today, the Andalusian horse’s presence adds a touch of grace and enchantment to the event.
The Spanish warhorse that evolved was sturdy, with a long sloping shoulder, short back, rounded, strong hind quarters, wide chest, with a well-crested, naturally arched neck and very sturdy legs. The Andalusian horse, which in ancient times carried the royalty of Europe, fought the fierce Iberian bulls, and carried Crusaders and Conquistadors, is now revered as a personal ride rather than being a workhorse. It is status to own a purebred Andalusian, especially one that is trained to dance.
These original Spanish horses provided the foundation stock for all American breeds of horses. The American Mustang, the Pasos of Central and South America and the Mexican Criollos are the very obvious descendants, but Morgans, Foxtrotters, Walking Horses, Saddlebreds and the famous Quarter Horse, can all trace their heritage back to the Andalusian. It is not surprising that in the 20th century when establishing the Mexican National horse, the Azteca breed, the process began with Andalusian stallions. The three foundation breeds of the Azteca are the Spanish (Andalusian), Quarter Horse, and Mexican Criollo (almost extinct). These three breeds were chosen to produce a breed that combined athletic ability with a good temperament and certain physical skills. The Mexican Department of Agriculture granted official registry to the Azteca breed on November 4, 1982. The Azteca is the national horse breed of the country.
Andalusians are high-spirited in their movement, but docile in nature. In color they are mostly grey but black and bay are also common. Buckskin and chestnut are rare. Because of its versatility, intelligence, agility, beauty and willing nature, Andalusians are making its way into all disciplines of the modern equine world. The Andalusian horse is extremely hardy and tough with strong limbs and feet. The agility and stamina of the breed make it ideally suited for the Mexican ranches where it is used as a saddle horse.
Several local horsemen in the Riviera Nayarit area proudly ride Andalusians and dance their way through parades-absolutely beautiful to watch.
The premier Mexican breeding farm of Andalusian horses, Rancho San Antonio in Texcoco just outside Mexico City, stands a number of outstanding pure-bred Andalusian stallions obtained in cooperation with the house of Domec. Its stud services and horses are sought after by serious Andalusian fans worldwide. The Azteca horse is excellent for sports and athletics; general riding or ranch work. Its life expectancy is 30-40 years and usually weighs between 450 to 540 kg (990 to 1,200 pounds.)
Even if you are not a horse aficionado, one can’t help but to be impressed with the history and tradition that the Mexican work horse-the Andalusian-as a symbol of Mexican culture.
