As you may have heard there is a growing interest in Holland in crossbreeding Iberian mares and warmblood stallions. The KWPN studbook organised a ‘crossbreed inspection’ for the 30 crossbreds that are by now born in Holland. They are very pleased with what they saw. In consultation with the KWPN and some Dutch breeders I was asked to do some research and create a social media and podcast series, looking at the phenomenon of crossbreeding from different angles.

So in January 2023 i went to Portugal again! And had the opportunity to talk to some of this biggest professional riders and breeders myself. I was welcome at the most amazing places and had a look at their beautiful horses. It is amazing to hear and see how incredible proud the Portuguese speak about their horses. I came back with a lot of new information about the Lusitanos and also crossbreeding the Lusitanos with our warmbloods.

In a few podcasts I will let you hear the interviews I had with the Portuguese professionals. Starting today with the ever charming Mr Paulo Caetano and his talented daughter, the Olympic dressage rider Maria Caetano.

> HorseHeroes is an production of EHS communications, a marketing & communications office, based in The Netherlands.