Marchadors... cont’d The Marcha Gaits The gait of the Mangalarga Marchador is fast and smooth, with a natural amble known as the Marcha. The feet move alternately lateral and diagonally. When there are more lateral movements in the step, the Marcha is called Marcha Picada. It is often described as a broken pace. Where there are more diagonal movements in the step, the Marcha is called Marcha Batida. It is often described as a broken trot. In recent years, although not yet recognized as a separate and distinct Marcha, there has been a third category describing where the movements diagonal and lateral are equal, and it is called Marcha de Centro. In all of the Marcha gaits, due to the moments of triple hoof support, the horse always has contact with the ground avoiding total suspension, thus, the rider feels secure and comfortable. The Marcha can reach speeds of 14-18km per hour without breaking gait. Most Canadians have not yet heard about this wonderful breed of which there are 18 horses in Canada. It is probable that the numbers will expand as more riders looking for a smooth riding horse with stamina, boldness, beauty and athleticism discover the Mangalarga Marchador; Brazil’s National horse. www.namarchador.org
Barbara Hart and Sapphire
HCBC 2010 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Measuring angles during inspection for Permanent Registration with the ABCCMM
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