Mar 23, 2012 – The Chronicle of the Horse
Prince Harry Gets Royal Treatment During Brazilian Visit Driving Interagro Lusitanos
Prince Harry’s trip to Brazil was a royal affaire that made headlines around the world, but the highlight of his trip was all about the horses that the Prince loves so much. While taking part in a charity polo match in Sao Paulo, Prince Harry arrived at the game driving a perfectly matched pair of grey Lusitanos, bred by Interagro Lusitanos.
As the largest breeder and exporter of Lusitanos in the world, Interagro Lusitanos was thrilled to see Prince Harry holding the reins of Semaneiro Interagro and Viajor Interagro. The prince was all smiles as he drove the magnificent pair of Lusitanos around the perimeter of the polo field, showing off his driving prowess and a love for horses that has been passed down from his grandfather.
Cecilia Gonzaga, Manager of Interagro Lusitanos in Brazil, was pleased to see Interagro horses being driven during such a prestigious event. “We bred both Semaneiro Interagro and Viajor Interagro, now owned by Mr. Alvaro Coelho da Fonseca of Haras Larissa, and we are thrilled to see their success. They are excellent ambassadors for the breed.”
Prince Harry comes from a long line of horse enthusiasts. Queen Elizabeth II, his grandmother, is a known horse lover and the British crown has a long history of equestrianism, from polo, showjumping and foxhunting to breeding famous racehorses. His grandfather, the Duke of Edinburgh, drove carriages competitively while his father, the Prince of Wales, has been a competitive polo player most of his life.
The Interagro horse is a modern Lusitano, a horse that excels in the traditional equestrian disciplines, from dressage and driving to jumping and working equitation. Interagro horses can be seen driving on the farm in Brazil everyday. Interagro is committed to preserving the pure bloodlines of the Lusitano breed.
Interagro Lusitanos is home to approximately 800 horses including 150 exceptional broodmares and 25 top quality stallions. “Prince Harry isn’t the only one who loves Interagro Lusitanos. Each year we host The Lusitano Collection® International Horse Auction which brings in Lusitano fans from around the world,” Gonzaga said. “The 2012 auction will be held at Interagro Lusitanos farm in Brazil, June 23rd and we are encouraging Lusitano fans to mark their calendars and plan now to attend.”
To learn more about Interagro Lusitanos, visit their website at www.lusitano-interagro.com.