A Window Into The Soul Of Costa Rica

Over a period of many years the Moors spread these breeds across North Africa and finally into Spain where they were crossed with native horses to produce the Andalucians, a superior breed that was sought after and prized by nations the world over. It was these horses that were brought to the New World by Conquistadores, as well as Spanish settlers, spreading North and South to become the main ancestors of the present horse populations of the Americas.

The development of such countries as Costa Rica depended heavily upon the horse (alongside the ubiquitous oxen) and very early there evolved a pride of ownership as well as an appreciation for finely bred and trained animals that lives on to this day. Shows displaying horsemanship have been and still are an important part of the local scene in Costa Rica.

About 20 years ago Juan Ferraro Dobles and his wife Queta Carazo Odio decided to take a trip to Europe. It had been ten years since they bought the family farm in San Miguel and they both felt the need for a rest and change of pace. After touring Spain they went on to Vienna, home of the famous Lippizzaners of the Spanish Riding School. Senor Ferraro had some experience with horses, breeding and selling them for a number of years on Rancho San Miguel. Seeing the Lippizzaners performing was a turning point in his life, for he decided then and there to create a similar show back home in his beloved Costa Rica.

On their return to Rancho San Miguel he surely must have felt a little awed by the long road that lay before him but, with his wife's steadfast support, he began the arduous and, at times, expensive journey towards making his dream a reality. Little by little, with his own resources, building the arena and other necessary buildings as time and money would allow, his dream began to take form. Importing Andalucian horses from Spain as finances permitted, he slowly built up his herd of prize show animals.

Then, about six years ago, Senor Ferraro called all his farm employees, carpenters, fence menders and field workers together and offered to train all those who wanted to grow with and be a part of his dream. At that time he brought in a local trainer and began putting together the vision that had come to him in Vienna fourteen years earlier.

His son, Jose Pablo, was one of those who was deeply inspired by his father's vision. Although the family had lived in San Jose, as he was growing up he had spent many happy weekends on the farm, so horses had always been a part of his life. Now, at this new opportunity, he was excited about the challenge that lay before him.

He worked with the trainer until he became proficient in all aspects of horsemanship as well as the many details that must be taken into account when managing animals such as the highly spirited Andalucians. They must be fed a special diet and great care given to their grooming as well as discipline, for in many ways they are like children. They also have the tendency to develop friendships and enmities that must always be taken into account.

Choosing the right horse for the right act is important, although in reality the choice is made by the horse. The affinity between rider and horse must be complete if the movements are to be smooth and effortless. In cases where there is a substitution of either rider or horse the performance is never quite the same. With this knowledge and much more, together with his talent for creativity and attention to detail, Pablo brought together a presentation that his father could be proud of.

The performance of the horses and riders was beautiful but Senor Ferraro felt something more was needed. He went to his daughter, Gloria Ferraro Curazo, and asked her help in rounding out the concept of `Rancho San Miguel'. Starting with one day a week her involvement soon grew as she too became inspired with the vision of her father's dream unfolding. Gloria now spends 3 to 4 days a week overseeing the care of the gardens, the operation of the restaurants, and the general care and cleaning of the buildings.

While her mother adds an artistic flair in the production of the brochures and posters, Gloria is also involved in the promotion of the show. Her special touch can be seen with the addition of the Tipico dancers in their brightly coloured costumes that adds humour and a local flavour to the presentation.

In order to make every dollar count they became very creative at cutting expenses by producing almost everything they needed right on the ranch. Not only did they construct the buildings and horse stalls but they also built furniture, stitched the curtains and napkins and even made their own candles for the restaurant. The result is a tribute to their hard work and dedication and an example of true entrepreneurial spirit.

As a visitor to Rancho San Miguel you can stroll around the beautiful gardens, browse through the gift shop and, perhaps, feed a carrot to one of the horses. After the show a typical Tico dinner, some of which is prepared on the BBQ near by, is served on the patio. The regular show is on Friday nights but special occasions can be accommodated for groups of up to 220 people. Besides the performance, a meal can be catered to your specifications and served in the restaurant overlooking the gardens.

The fire of the Latin soul is reflected in their determination to put everything into what they do, practicing 2 to 3 hours daily with Wednesday set aside as a day for full rehearsal. The exhibition of horsemanship that you will see at Rancho San Miguel is not, however, an extravaganza; it is much more than that: it is a glimpse into the hearts of all Costaricans.

© El Residente ARCR Administración S.A. San José, Costa Rica N.B. Like all information on the internet, this article may currently be incorrect or out of date.