🏇 Freio de Ouro at Expointer 2025: What Makes This the Ultimate Criollo Horse Challenge?
If you’re curious about South America’s most prestigious horse competition, the Freio de Ouro is the crown jewel — and it’s happening this year at Expointer 2025, held at the Assis Brasil Exhibition Park in Esteio, Brazil.
But what exactly is the Freio de Ouro? And why has it become a must-see event for horse lovers around the world?
🐴 What Is the Freio de Ouro?
Think of it as the Olympics for the Criollo horse breed — a thrilling combination of beauty, power, precision, and tradition.
Held annually since 1982, the Freio de Ouro (“Golden Brake”) is the final stage of a rigorous selection process for Criollo horses, a breed native to South America known for endurance, intelligence, and versatility.
Only 48 stallions and 48 mares reach the finals — the elite — after qualifying through multiple national and international competitions.
🏆 Why Is It Such a Big Deal?
Because it’s not just a competition. It’s a benchmark for genetic excellence and performance.
Winning horses become breeding legends, with their bloodlines gaining significant value. The event also highlights the role of professional riders (ginetes) — true equestrian athletes in a demanding discipline.
📍 Where and When?
- Date: During Expointer 2025
- Location: Arena do Cavalo Crioulo, Esteio, RS, Brazil
- Entry: Free with your fair ticket
- Streaming: Live on ABCCC channels and media partners
🧭 How Do Horses Qualify?
The road to the final includes several stages:
- Credenciadoras: Local qualifiers run by breeder groups
- Regional Heats: Held across Brazilian states and abroad
- International Stages: Hosted in Uruguay and Argentina
- Open Qualifier: A final chance for unclassified teams
Only the most complete horses — in body, mind, and movement — make it to the grand finale.
💡 Did You Know?
The Freio de Ouro is part of a trio of major tests for Criollo horses:
- Morphology: Examines structure and breed standard
- Resistance March: 750 km across 15 days of endurance
🧪 What Are the Final Challenges?
In the final, horses compete in seven skill-based events:
- Morphology – Breed standard and physical structure
- Natural Gaits – Walk, trot, and gallop performance
- Figure Test – Precision through a marked path
- Stops and Spins – Quick reactions and control
- Cattle Handling (Mangueira) – Separating and controlling livestock
- Field Work – High-speed herding teamwork
- Bayard/Sarmento – Final technical performance
All performances are scored by specialized judges, and results are calculated based on a weighted average.
👏 From Cowboys to Athletes
Once limited to ranch workers, today’s competitors are highly trained professionals. Riders like Milton Castro — an 8-time Freio de Ouro champion — have helped elevate the sport to elite status.
🐎 Legacy and Bloodlines
The first edition in 1982 had just 12 horses. Today, it’s an international show of excellence. The original winner, Itaí Tupambaé, came from the legendary bloodline of La Invernada Hornero.
🧐 Would You Watch It?
Whether you’re a horse enthusiast or just love thrilling, cultural sports — the Freio de Ouro at Expointer 2025 is a unique experience.
Would you visit Brazil to see it live? Or would you stream it from home?
This unforgettable event blends athleticism, tradition, and South American passion in one arena. Don’t miss it!
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