The Original Lipizzan Stallions of Austria

On Thursday February 5^th we went to see some horses in Myakka City. Not just any horses: Herrmanns' Royal Lipizzan Stallions.  These are the decedents of the horses General George Patton saved during World War II. Walt Disney made a movie about them called Miracle of the White Stallions.

Gabriela Herrmann, daughter of Col. Ottomar Herrmann, was the mistress of ceremonies.

The horses perform classical dressage movements. 

The Lipizzan Stallions are known for their "airs above the ground" maneuvers, originally intended for the battlefield. These require a great deal of hindquarter strength.

The grand finale.

After the show, the stables were open for up close and personal viewing.