from staff
The International Paso Fino Horse Show “Mundial” kicked off yesterday at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center. Mundial showcases Paso Fino horses brought in from more than 10 countries in the five-day event, which is held every two years in a different country.
The Paso Fino Horse Association of Plant City, the host organization for this event, is anticipating over 400 horses to compete in 119 classes. Paso Finos are expected from Germany, Aruba, Colombia, Curacao, Panama, Puerto Rico, Switzerland, Venezuela and the United States.
Tickets to the show, which runs through Sunday, are available at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, charge by phone at 353-3309 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets are also available at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center each day of the show.
Paso Fino horses were brought to the world by Christopher Columbus through Santo Domingo, now part of the Dominican Republic. Today, the Paso Fino can be found all over the U.S. and is the second largest breed in Marion County, Florida.
What sets the Paso Fino horse apart from other breeds is its smooth, no-bounce, four-beat lateral gait. To demonstrate, riders often will hold a glass of wine in their hand as they parade around the arena. Another traditional demonstration is the use of the “Fino Board” which consists of a wooden walk way in the center of the arena.
For more information on the show, contact the Paso Fino Horse Association at 813-719-7777, or visit www.pfha.org.