The Georgia and North Florida Paso Fino Horse Associations (PFHA) have teamed up to bring their "Summer Spectacular" event to Statesboro.
Shows will take place Friday, July 15, at 3:00 PM and Saturday, July 16, at 9:00 AM at the Bulloch County Agricultural Complex, located at 44 Area Boulevard in Statesboro.
Admission is free for spectators and concessions will be available.
According to GeorgiaPasoFino.org, the ancient Spanish breed is known for its exceptionally smooth, evenly-spaced gait that provides for a comfortable ride. This trait makes Paso Fino horses extremely popular for endurance riding and working cattle. Many equestrians choose the breed for barrel racing, team penning, pole bending, and trail riding. Their mild temperament makes them ideal for shows with lots of spectators.
History of Paso Fino horses in the Americas
"As the first horses introduced to the Americas, the ancestors of the Paso Fino were brought to the New World by the Conquistadors, where they served as foundation stock for remount stations across South and Central America. Descendants of the Pura Raza Española (the “Pure Spanish Horse,” known in America as the Andalusian), the Barb, and the now-extinct Spanish Jennet, Paso Finos are among some of the most beautiful and intelligent horses in the world. With their graceful arched necks, flowing manes and large, soft eyes, these horses will truly steal your heart.
"Paso Finos were used as plantation and ranch horses in Puerto Rico, Colombia, and other Latin American countries, to be ridden comfortably for hours at a time without tiring. Paso Finos can walk, canter, and gallop as other horses do, but their preferred way of going is their own four-beat lateral gait. The evenly spaced pattern is evident from birth and does not have to be taught to the horse, although training can refine and enhance it for the show ring.
"As a breed, the Paso Fino was virtually unknown in the United States until American servicemen, stationed in Puerto Rico during World War II, discovered and began importing these beautiful and intelligent animals. Seven decades later, Paso Finos have increased in numbers here and around the world, competing at the local, regional, national, and international levels and winning more fans along the way."
Source: https://www.georgiapasofino.org/the-breed/
About the GA Paso Fino Horse Association
"As a group, our members introduce more and more people to the world of the Paso Fino horse each year. We are here to encourage and inform any and all who are interested in this wonderful breed. It’s all about the Paso Fino, family, and friends!
"Originally established in Atlanta in 1976 as the Georgia Paso Fino Owners and Breeders Association, the Georgia Paso Fino Horse Association (GPFHA) is a statewide (and beyond) group of horse owners and enthusiasts, professional trainers, breeders, trail riders, and show competitors. This diverse group has one thing in common: the love of the Paso Fino horse. Members regularly participate in shows, clinics, local parades, trail rides, breed demonstrations, and other horse events around the state.
"Our members come together to share their mutual love for this amazing and versatile breed. We are not only rookies and veterans of the show ring but the most comfortable riders blazing any trail. No matter your age or interests there is a Paso Fino that can carry you there."
Source: https://www.georgiapasofino.org/
