A two-part special has recently been published online highlighting the skills of Master horseman Luis Valenca Rodrigues that I’d like to share with my readers. If you are unfamiliar don’t feel terrible, he is in Portugal and as is unfortunately the common case has not reached the recognizability of other Masters yet who reached their own status following their passing. This Master however, is still accessible and I encourage people to watch and listen to what he has to say.
What I found fascinating in particular was the history lesson on the Lusitano breed, how it came to be developed in the manner it has (with bulls, etc) as well as how he contrasts their speed/flexibility to other breeds and what that means in their training and handling.
As he is working with the horses keep a close eye because the habits he has are descended from many of the great masters which are talked about in Classical Dressage circles. What a wonderful opportunity that is not always common place!
Part I -
[vimeo 14277535]
Part II -
[vimeo 14462928]