took 2nd place in our division. Netuno could not have been more perfect.
As Netuno is set to retire from competition this year, I must remark what an amazing breed and incredible find the Mangalarga Marchador is and how profoundly my life has been touched by having my own.
I remember contacting Lynn Kelly, with the USMMA (United States Mangalarga Marchador Association) back in 2007 wanting to know more about these horses I had never heard of!
At that time, there were only about 200 or less in the U.S. The Marchador is the national horse of Brazil. How cool is that? A country that loves this horse so much they recognize it with such honor. The Brazilians do EVERYTHING with these horses. They work cows, show, race, jump and raise their kids on their backs. They are very proud of these smooth, naturally gaited horses. Marchadors have a very soft and gentle nature, making them popular with all kinds of riders.
After years of searching, we finally found Neturno and bought him from 4 Seasons Marchadors in Montana, owned by Lori Silcher, a fellow ACTHA member. Lori and her Marchador stallion were among the top 100 national contenders in ACTHA's reality tv series; America's Favorite Trail Horse.
Netuno has the temperament and willingness that I love and he will do anything I ask. Over the years, we have worked on trail obstacles and even entered some shows with trail courses in addition to ACTHA. Netuno has been very competitive. I have worked cows with him for fun, but our most welcomed moments are just us and the nature we ride in.
ACTHA Monthly | April 2015 | 20
Todd Miller and I have been married for 10 years. He did not ride until we got married. He now competes in AQHA Ranch Versatility. Ranch Versatility showcases the ranch work that used to be the real career of the Quarter Horse. There are four elements to it, Reining, Ranch pleasure, Trail course and of course cow work. Todd participates in ACTHA rides to prepare for showing and for the positive effects of the trail.
"Todd participates in ACTHA rides to keep his horse tuned up. The trail ride keeps his horse fresh, not to mention he enjoys the ride."