Mexico’s Halter Horse Industry – On the Rise

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86 – May/June, 2017

By Rachel Kooiker

One theory of how the modern horse was introduced to North America is by way of the Spanish conquistadors. The story goes that in 1519, the conquistadors gifted a handful of horses to settlers in Mexico and New Mexico. As further expeditions brought more horses, herds grew and spread north into what would one day become the United States. These days, the trend has reversed and the United States is sending modern Halter horses south. Read on to learn how the American Halter horse has taken hold in Mexico’s thriving equine industry and meet a handful of Halter enthusiasts who’re laying the groundwork for the future of the discipline in Mexico.

MAJOR PLAYERS

Joaquín Delón Paéz

Joaquin is the trainer for the U.S.-based operations for Ranch Rejon. A U.S. citizen, Joaquin was raised in Puebla, Mexico, and has been involved with horses since childhood. He was educated in Ireland, where Joaquin got the opportunity to ride every day, and it was there that he developed a love for horses. After returning to Mexico, Joaquin’s passion turned to the American Quarter Horses he saw competing in Halter. The beauty and muscle of these animals caught his attention, and he has been involved with them ever since. Joaquin works tirelessly with trainers and breeders to continue his education and put that knowledge to work bettering the Halter industry in Mexico, in addition to quickly racking up major accomplishments as an exhibitor. Joaquin is knowledgeable and talented, and he has spread enthusiasm for the Mexican Halter industry through his skills at building personal connections between Mexico and the United States.

Ricardo Rejón

Ricardo Rejón is a very successful and respected businessman from Mexico City. He’s a family man with a huge love for horses and a competitive spirit. Ricardo got involved in the Halter horse industry 15 years ago when he purchased his ranch and two show horses in Estado de Mexico, Mexico. However, it wasn’t until 2014 that Ricardo decided to pursue raising and showing World caliber Halter horses. Ricardo has been instrumental in the overall improvement of the Halter horse in Mexico, which extends from the buying and importing of top-quality horses to the organization, financing, and promotion of major Halter events in Mexico. Rejón owns Rancho Rejón,

Click here to read the complete article
86 – May/June, 2017