Elegant And Emblematic Peruvian Paso Horse
One of the many reasons for Peruvian pride is without a doubt the Peruvian Paso Horse, a species that is considered one of the most comfortable chair races in the world, due to its smooth ride. In addition, it is characterized by having great strength, beauty, and docility, generating a rhythmic and harmonious step when walking.
It is an equine sub-race, originally from Peru, a descendant of the Berber cordovan horse brought by the Spaniards at the time of the conquest of Peru. It is an animal that does not have a typical walk of the common horse since it carries the front and back legs of the same side simultaneously (amblar). Therefore, the finest specimens are those that manage to four times.
The selective breeding associated with other factors such as climate and pastures has helped to modify successive generations and create a new breed that has different characteristics from any other horse in the world.
The current Peruvian Paso Horse is the result of more than 400 years of selective breeding. The race combines qualities that could be contradictory. It is very fiery-but easy to handle, free and relaxed in its movements. Its front legs have bright air – but its gait is extremely comfortable and its foot is sure. It is a slender horse, but it is very powerful. All of this is accompanied by grace and intelligence.
The Peruvian Paso Horses have all coat colors with a uniform base, as well as white and ruano. Its average size ranges from 1.42m to 1.54m. In general, its weight varies between 400 and 500 kilograms. Similar to the Morgans and the Arabs.
Currently, this animal is protected by Decree-Law No. 25919 of 1992, which declares it as a native species of Peru. It was declared a Cultural Heritage of the Nation.
In addition, it was appointed one day for his commemoration. Every third Sunday of April the «Peruvian Paso Horse Day» is celebrated.
Likewise, the National Peruvian Paso Horse Contest takes place in Lima every April, where dozens of equines demonstrate all their elegance and beauty in order to obtain the desired victory.
If we talk about the chalan, he could be called the tamer of the passing horse. He is a character that normally is found wearing a shirt, pants, linen poncho of vicuña fiber, straw hat, and a handkerchief. His style of driving the emblematic horse has one main characteristic, not moving towards the sides when guiding the equine, remaining almost motionless on the ride, with technique and elegance in each of its demonstrations.
