Colombia is a country rich in culture, and this extends to its unique traditions involving horses. Among these, the “Colombian Dancing Horses,” particularly the Paso Fino, stand out as a remarkable display of horsemanship and a significant cultural heritage. This post delves into the experience of encountering these extraordinary animals, exploring their training, the cultural significance of their unique gaits, and the stables that house them.
Experiencing Impressive Paso Fino Stables
The allure of traveling lies in discovering diverse local cultures, and the horse world is no exception, showcasing a myriad of ways to achieve similar equestrian feats. During a stay at Steel Horse, an opportunity arose to visit a finca renowned for its typical Colombian “Dancing horses.” Having observed the finca from a distance during a previous trail ride, the anticipation was high, but the reality surpassed all expectations. The journey to the finca, passing by broodmare stables and verdant fields, was scenic. The impeccably maintained grounds and the sight of the “riding arena” left the author in awe, encountering a stable of such caliber was a rare treat.
Understanding Dancing Horse Competitions
Upon entering the arena, a sense of slight uncertainty was overcome by a warm welcome. Inside, a professional horse trainer was showcasing his skills. The arena itself differed from conventional ones, featuring a central “path” made of wooden planks. Interspersed with poles and barrels, these elements form the basis of a typical dancing horse competition setup.
The trainer graciously demonstrated a standard competition test. This involved a combination of “dancing” around poles, precise backward movements, and, crucially, presenting the horse on the “wooden pathway.” This pathway is designed to highlight the horse’s unique gait, a hallmark of the Colombian Paso Fino.
The Training of Dancing Horses
The training regimen for these horses begins remarkably early, around 25 months of age. Initially, training is bitless, employing a headcollar that applies gentle pressure to the horse’s nose. Witnessing a young horse being schooled by a second trainer provided a glimpse into this foundational stage. Training sessions are approximately 30 minutes long, five days a week. A unique combination of genetics and specialized training enables these horses to lift their feet at an astonishing speed. Around 40 months of age, the horses are introduced to the bit, and by four years old, they are generally considered fully trained. Many of these horses are sold, while others are destined for competition. There are four distinct gaits: Paso Fino Colombiano, Trocha, Trocha y Galope, and Trote, each possessing individual characteristics that dictate their specific training and riding methods.
Cultural Nuances in Equine Practices
A subtle shift in the trainer’s demeanor occurred when he learned that horses in Europe are traditionally started with a snaffle or a similar bit. While some might perceive the rapid lifting of a horse’s feet as unnatural, the trainer’s perspective highlights cultural differences in horsemanship. For them, the ability of a horse to perform canters in pirouettes, a gait for which they were not specifically bred, might be considered more contentious. Regardless of cultural variations, the post emphasizes the importance of supporting establishments where animals are genuinely well-cared for and healthy, encouraging ethical practices in all equestrian activities.
Many of the horses at this particular finca are stallions. Their training involves riding them past other stallions and mares, both within the stables and in the arena. The harmonious coexistence of these stallions was particularly noteworthy. This contrasts with the author’s experience growing up on a farm where stallions often require strict separation to prevent aggression. A fascinating aspect observed in South America is the general calm demeanor of stallions when in proximity to other horses, rarely showing overt interest.
A Personal Encounter with a Paso Fino
As the trainer worked with his horse, an invitation was extended to the author to ride. Initial skepticism gave way to acceptance, with a touch of apprehension about managing a young stallion without prior experience. However, the trainer provided clear instructions: maintain a high hand position and refrain from using leg aids. With a gentle kiss sound, the horse began its characteristic “dance” with remarkable responsiveness, requiring no direct rein or leg pressure. While mastering turns around the poles took a few attempts, the experience was undeniably positive. Upon returning the horse, the trainer’s exceptional horsemanship was once again on full display.
Luxurious Accommodations for Elite Horses
A tour of the stables revealed accommodations far grander than the average, complete with chandeliers and an almost unparalleled level of cleanliness. The environment was breathtaking, showcasing well-treated animals under the care of skilled horsemen. The finca houses approximately 200 horses, with the trainer dedicating considerable time to exercising 18 horses daily. The trainer’s enthusiasm for his work and genuine interest in sharing his culture was evident throughout the interview, with a constant query of “Qué mas quieres saber?” (“What more would you like to know?”). The conversation extended to European equestrian practices like dressage, bits, and spurs, sparking further curiosity.
The lingering sound of hoofbeats on wood upon departure painted a vivid final image. While acknowledging that experiences can vary depending on the specific location and trainers, the author’s firsthand account highlights a positive and ethical approach. The post cautions that online platforms, such as Instagram, may showcase less positive examples of training and riding methods. The author firmly agrees that the performance of these horses is undeniably impressive and expresses gratitude for the enriching experience and cultural insight gained during their visit to Colombia.
For a visual treat of these dancing horses, their Instagram account is recommended. Those interested in experiencing a ride on a Paso Fino Horse are encouraged to join an upcoming horse riding holiday in Colombia.
