The
American Azteca
In 1972, the Mexican Charros (cowboys) began a quest to produce a horse with the agility, quickness, and cow sense to work on their cattle ranches. For this they chose the Andalusian to cross with their Quarter Horses and Crillo mares. The results were astounding, a horse with speed, heart, stamina, grace and an outstanding disposition and ability to learn. That horse not only possessed the ability to work on their ranches but also the versatility to have many other uses. The Azteca was born, and in the years following has acquired so much recognition it has earned the title of the "National Horse of Mexico." The
Andalusian used to breed with their mares, is an Ancient and rare
breed. They are very sturdy with a long sloping shoulder, natural
collection, extremely sturdy legs and hooves. Sought after for
their quiet temperament, they are easily handled, yet have a reserved
for their abilities when called upon. They are the horses that
throughout history were revered for their abilities when used as a
warhorse. These same skills were used in Spain and Portugal to
work the cattle and the notorious fighting bulls and still are
today. In the bull ring they carry their riders with unimaginable
grace and speed. Today, 80 percent of all modern breeds including
the Quarter Horse, trace back to the illustrious horse of Spain and
Portugal; This breed inherits beauty, temperament, pride, agility, and spirit from their Andalusian blood and strength, heart, and speed from their Quarter Horse Blood. The breed requires there be no more than 3/4 Andalusian or Quarter Horse blood in the first generations. The American Azteca should be a good balance between the two breeds with qualities of both. The intention is to create a new type that exhibits the best of both breeds. The recommended characteristics of the American Azteca are as follows. Some variations are seen. Average size ranges from 14.2 to 16 hands. Both Quarter Horse and Paint horses proving no more than 1/4 TB can be used for breeding American Aztecas. All AQHA and APHA markings and colors are acceptable. The head is of medium size with a straight, slightly convex or slightly concave profile with a broad forehead, expressive eyes and medium ears which are mobile and well placed. The neck well muscled, shapely, and slightly arched with a medium crest and broad base where it joins on to a long sloping shoulder. A long flowing mane and tail are often seen. The withers broad and slightly muscled, yet defined. The haunches, strong and well muscled leading to a well set medium to low tail. The legs are well muscled with dense bone, good joints and strong hooves. Retained from the Andalusian is a free shoulder and hip which allows them to be incredible athletic and smooth to ride. Their movement is naturally collected with a variance of knee action from high and brilliant to long and flowing. All of this creates a horse anyone would be proud to own. THE
AMERICAN AZTECA HORSE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION |
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