Vesty/Visel Ar abian Horse Times | 2 | Ar abians International
The United States of by THERESA CARDAMONE America is a magnificent tapestry of a nation, where people from diverse regions of the world have come to seek better lives for themselves and their families. From all walks of life, immigrants have sought freedom, refuge, and opportunity here for hundreds of years. In fact, it is a common bond that all non-native Americans share. This is the story of two men—of completely different nationalities and backgrounds—who followed their individual dreams to America’s golden shores. Unknowingly linked through their mutual love of the Arabian horse, their paths converged while they were paying their dues during their early years in a new land. Eventually, they decided to weave their considerable individual experience, talents, and ambitions together in founding an all-encompassing equine enterprise upon the desert sands of Scottsdale, the epicenter of the American Arabian horse industry. So, in 2010; Sandro Pinha, a native Brazilian; and Gil Valdez, who was born in Mexico, cemented their bond when they christened their joint venture “Arabians International” in Arizona, USA. Only seven years later, Gil and Sandro are reaping the benefits of their global upbringing and inclusive mindset. Their goal of creating a new brand known throughout the Arabian world for its ability to provide a full complement of exceptional services has been met in a big way. Arabians International is a thriving enterprise that reflects the strength of its foundation. The co-founders are internationally respected not only as elite horsemen, but also as tender caretakers of their equine charges; not only as gifted and experienced showmen, but also as mentors to their many successful amateurs; not only as knowledgeable marketers, but also as astute and responsible breeders; and always as friends and protectors of the Arabian horse. Ar abian Horse Times | 3 | Ar abians International
Sandro Pinha had the tremendous advantage of growing up on one of Brazil’s premier Arabian horse farms, Haras Capim Fino, home to the very important breeding program of Paulo Levy. There, he was raised side-by-side with many world-class Arabian horses, solely due to the happy circumstance that he was born to a father who lived and worked on the farm! It was the perfect habitat for Sandro to absorb all aspects of breeding, training, showing, and selling horses from a very early age. Even before he entered his teens, Sandro’s commitment and natural ability to communicate with the horses provided him with a strong foundation upon which he applied his accumulated knowledge. Soon he was assisting in the schooling of the farm’s horses and making a reputation for himself as a trainer that horses liked to perform for. Before long, he was competing and winning at major shows all over Brazil, drawing the eyes of international owners, breeders and trainers; and eventually following his fate to America. Gil Valdez had a different beginning to his life, being born and raised in Mexico with scarce direct contact with horses when he was young. But, like Sandro, he harbored a deep, almost irrational love of horses and a burgeoning desire to make them the center of his life. He, too, learned his trade from more experienced horsemen, gaining skills that made him a successful and in-demand trainer in his own right. Eventually he, too, followed the beacon of opportunity to the U.S. and he spent time absorbing the entirety of the Arabian lifestyle during his days as part of Team Midwest. Robert and Dixie North have been breeding national and international champion Arabian horses for decades, and have traveled the world in that pursuit. As luck would have it, their paths crossed with Sandro and Gil early on, so they had every reason to trust them with their horses when the time came. “We have known Sandro since he was a young man working as a groom for several of the leading Brazilian trainers,” says Bob. “And we’ve known Gil since he was the leading groom for Midwest Training Centre in Minnesota.” (Just over ten years ago, the Norths got to know Sandro extremely well when he worked for them at their Scottsdale facility.) Ar abian Horse Times | 4 | Ar abians International
“Even in those early days, they were both very talented,” Bob continues. “They would become world-class managers and trainers for many of the world’s greatest halter horses. Little did we know that they would become partners and create one of the leading Arabian training facilities in the world. This was achieved with hard work and smart investments on their part. Their facility, Arabians International, is known around the world for its high-quality halter horses, the inviting and exhibitor-friendly facility, and not to be understated, Gil’s creative touches and the magnificent landscaping. Dixie and I salute their success!” The Arabian business is no different than any other horse-related industry in that it sometimes contains fickle clients, who bounce from one trainer to another, looking for guaranteed wins. It is much to their credit that Arabians International has a large percentage of clients who have been with them for years. Lara Ames, the publisher of Arabian Horse Times and AHT Abroad, is a lifelong Arabian horse owner. Her family’s Cedar Ridge Arabians has a long and storied history of breeding exceptional performance and halter horses. “I have known Sandro and Gil for a very long time,” Lara explains. “Our friendship started when they were working for Midwest, and has carried on throughout the years.” Lara is a dedicated horsewoman in her own right, and she knows how horses should be cared for. “I do not think I have ever met two guys that are as dedicated to their horses as Gil and Sandro are,” she goes on. “When you have a horse with them, you never have to worry. It is going to be well taken care of and they will look out for your best interests. Sandro and Gil are simply the best.” Sandro and Gil run their business in a way that fosters a family-like connection among their clients. The camaraderie that develops among them is often cited as one of the reasons people are so comfortable at Arabians International. They root for each other’s horses, and develop a strong sense of community wherever they gather. Over the years, the men have hosted their entire client base at their facility for leisurely evening meals during the hectic Scottsdale shows. And, of course, the beautifully decorated stall area is always both a happy gathering place for clients and a quiet refuge from the rest of the busy showgrounds at all major events. Ar abian Horse Times | 5 | Ar abians International
The track record of success for a training establishment often begins with one special horse. It can be argued that it was his success in showing El Nabila B to the 2010 United States National Champion Stallion title that brought Sandro’s talents to the forefront in America. But before that, providence offered him the chance to prove himself with that very stallion in an emergency situation. Mike Weinstein has been breeding and showing Arabian horses on the highest level for many years, both with and without partners. In this case, he and his partners planned to show their El Nabila B, a former Brazilian National Champion who was also trying to make his mark in America, at the prestigious Arabian Breeders World Cup (ABWC) in Las Vegas. But a scheduling conflict put the horse’s appearance at the show in jeopardy. Mike remembers when Sandro stepped up—cold turkey—to save the day. “We became confronted with a situation at the Las Vegas show in 2009—our trainer, Rodolfo Guzzo (who was one of Sandro’s mentors in Brazil), had overbooked himself,” Weinstein recalls. “Although we put Nabila on the trailer from Scottsdale with the plan that Guzzo would show him in Las Vegas, we arrived and found out that he would be showing the current Brazilian National Champion—not Nabila.” What might have been a minor disaster was averted when Sandro Pinha stepped in.
“We were very lucky,” Mike went on. “Sandro was working with Guzzo at the time and, unknown to us, was a big fan of Nabila. He was happy to present him for the partners. Needless to say, Sandro won the ‘duel of Brazilian National Champions’ with Nabila, and the rest is history.” Sandro and El Nabila B followed up their Las Vegas win with their dramatic U.S. National Champion Stallion title in 2010, and Weinstein has been a fixture at Arabians International since it’s inception. Their relationship has melded into a combination of fellowship and partnership, both personally and professionally. Weinstein lends a bit of insight, “Fast forward eight years,” he says. “We’ve just finished a road trip together—Jean, Arturo, Sandro, Gil and I—to Winnemucca, Nev., to see part of our 2017 foal crop and several of our young mares who are waiting to enter the breeding program. We had a great time, saw some good horses, and one very special filly from (the El Nabila B son) Titan AS!” Mike Weinstein sums up the feelings of many Arabians International clients when he says, “For success in the Arabian breed, you really need your whole team to be committed. Breeding horses and showing horses is an emotional business and at times can be very stressful, therefore, you need to find people like Sandro and Gil that share your vision and are committed to the success of the program.”
Gil and Sandro have been garnering championships all over the world since before they opened the doors of their business. Through their concerted and focused effort, they took their fledgling enterprise and catapulted it to the top tier of the Arabian industry. One of the reasons for their startling success is the holistic approach that they take to the business of horses. They realize that for the industry to thrive, or even survive, the average owner needs to be cultivated as aggressively as the extraordinary ones. They have established a strong amateur training element, which allows their clients another way to experience the pleasure of showing their horses. The annual Arabian Breeders World Cup in Las Vegas has grown in stature every year, attracting the finest horses from all over the world to fly in for the exclusively halter/breeding event. In 2017, Arabians International dominated the Amateur division, sending out well-prepared clients and horses to capture both the ABWC Mare/Filly ATH Supreme Gold Championship (won by Amira JF [SMA Magic One x FS Dixie Rose], who was shown by Jordan Simons) and the ABWC Stallion/Colt ATH Supreme Gold Championship (won by Grand Promise NA [Grand Commandd x Promises Psy], who was shown by Mike Bills). On the professional side, in addition to other wins for his clients, Sandro led Enzino PCF to the Yearling Colt Supreme Gold Championship for owner Sam Peacemaker.
“We know that our success would not be possible without all that they do,” Sam states. “We value their talents and dedication tremendously. They have given excellent care to our horses over the years. Each year we grow more excited for the next show. They are the best!” The excitement of the show ring touches each person in a different way. Gary Kehl of GRK Farms gets wrapped up in the emotions that rage during a horse show, and appreciates the dramatic approach that is taken in presenting horses from the Arabians International barn. “Sandro has a different way of bringing the horse into the ring,” Gary enthuses. “Instead of running as fast as he can, he just walks in with them … and they are prancing like they just want to be let loose. It creates an excitement when they come into the show ring, and I don’t see anybody else doing that. The anticipation of waiting for that horse to stand up is pretty awesome. You’re just holding your breath, I mean it just blows you away. Last year at the Nationals, he brought in a couple of horses like that and it’s just, wow! Whoa! It’s different than 90% of the other trainers; it really sets him apart.”
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Arabian Soul is a partnership that was established by people who wanted to contribute to the Arabian industry in a meaningful way, including Rodrigo Gonzalez. They have found a lasting home at Arabians International, where they appreciate the friendships that they have forged with their fellow competitors. Subscribing to the belief that competition makes for better breeders, and therefore better horses, they found that with Gil and Sandro they have the perfect combination of skills and talents to achieve their goals. “Sandro was born with a gift,” Rodrigo states unequivocally. “He is not only a wonderful showman, he is also an amazing creator of breeding programs, the part of this adventure that I personally enjoy more. We now have a breeding program that is starting to show rewards to us. We have been producing champions since the first year and it’s amazing to get something that shines every year ... in every way.” Sandro has a breeder’s mindset for horses whose pedigrees promote elevation of the breed standard, coupled with a trainer’s keen eye for a top show horse. Consequently, he can give holistically considered advice to his clients, which allows them to benefit on several levels. The horses win in the show ring, the breeding stock out-produce themselves and the genetic blueprint is secured for the next generation. “Gil is the perfect partner to Sandro,” Rodrigo explains. “He is always giving me tips about conformation and feeding, showing me how to handle the babies once they are on the ground—this is highly important, because otherwise my program would be a disaster! But the best part has been to develop a real friendship where we can say anything without politics ... this has been the key of our success.” The client care and communication that every member of the Arabians International family receives is second to none. “Sandro and Gil are the real deal: hard-working, great communicators, and successful in the show ring,” states satisfied owner Suzanne Perkins. “The most exciting memory with them for Perry and I was this past year at Scottsdale. Sandro showed our black Vitorio TO Half-Arabian yearling colt in the Junior Championship … and won!” It’s true, winning is fun, and there may be no better barn in which clients can pursue that special form of happiness. As Lisa Markley, respected horsewoman and breeder of multiNational Champion Pitonisa AS says, “Sandro and Gil have helped me accomplish my greatest dream as a breeder, but it’s more than that Ar abian Horse Times | 8 | Ar abians International
Manny Vierra has been in the Arabian business for a very long time, so has accumulated a wide palette of experiences with various training barns over the years. While he hasn’t been a client of Arabians International for as long as some, he is just as appreciative of the way that Gil and Sandro run their operation. “We have been doing business together for several years now,” says Manny. “I really enjoy their professionalism and attitude towards their clients. They make showing and competing fun, not stressful. It is a pleasure to do business with both of them, and their staff is the best.”
spend much personal time at their farm or even at shows, but I get a different perspective. They are thoughtful in their presentation of every horse; be it in the magazine or the show ring. I always hate to sound condescending to them—when I say I am proud of them—but, I am. Their business is successful because they do right by their clients and right by their horses. They don’t lose sight of the service they are in business to provide. It’s nice to see that.” There is no doubt that Arabians International is truly among the finest training and marketing facilities on the planet and it is also clear that Sandro Pinha and Gil Valdez are among the finest horsemen the Arabian industry has to offer. Their complementary skills, their united vision, their commitment to the horses and clients in their care—these are the hallmarks of the hard work and dedication that they bring to bear every day, the essence of Arabians International.
Arabians International is the manifestation of a partnership unique in the industry, where each person brings a different set of equally important skills to the table. It allows them to cover all the bases to meet each client’s individual needs. The El Tino Partners are very appreciative of the deep knowledge base and professional standards that are hallmarks of Gil and Sandro’s work, which for them extends to support for their significant Brazilian sire, El Tino. The Partners can’t thank Sandro and Gil enough for the “tremendous support given to El Tino and his foals in the USA,” citing “the charisma, elegance and talents Sandro consistently displays with both his horses and clients” that “make him comparable to none other; the best in the world.” Character is often exhibited in the way that people work with others. The Arabians International team is well known for their respectful working relationships with photographers, designers, and other industry professionals. Jenn Trickey is an AHT Readers’ Choice award-winning designer, who relies on excellent communication with her clients to produce such high-quality product under often stressful time constraints. She appreciates the reciprocal relationship she has with this pair of horsemen and their conscientious staff. “I’ve had the privilege to work with Sandro and Gil for over a decade now,” Jenn attests. “I have been impressed, from day one, how they really keep their client’s experience the main priority. I don’t get to Ar abian Horse Times | 9 | Ar abians International
McKenna
to me; we share respect, friendship, and love for one another.” Longtime clients Alp and Darcy Ilercil agree. “We have known the two of them for almost 17 years,” Darcy relates. “Someone once said, ‘Success Isn’t Lucky, Success Is Built.’ Gil and Sandro have built their success. They love what they do, and it shows. We have been through a lot together; it has been a fun ride.”
Multi-National Champion
EL TINO
(DA Valentino x Imprimista CF) LEADING SIRE OF NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
Multi-National Champion
DOMINUS ARABCO (El Tino x Shavanna El Madan)
2017 Arabian Breeders World Cup Bronze Supreme Junior Stallion
The charisma, elegance and talents Sandro consistently displays with both his horses and clients make him comparable to none other; the best in the world. The El Tino Partners thank Sandro Pinha and Gil Valdez for their tremendous support given to El Tino and his foals in the USA.
Multi-National Champion of Brazil
TINA EL MADAN
(El Tino x Grace LM) Now owned by the Aria Partners LLC
El Tino Partners: Sylvio Barbosa Neto, Luiz Gonzaga & Bernardo Santana silvio@elba.com.br | www.RanchoArabco.com Ar abian Horse Times | 11 | Ar abians International
Multi-National Champion
EL NABILA B
ferrara
(Kubinec x 218 Elf Layla Walayla B)
We started our journey in 2009 with the Senior Champion win in Las Vegas with El Nabila B. Sandro stepped in when our scheduled trainer became over-committed and he has been stepping in ever since when needed! Both Gil and Sandro have been constant supporters and have also become wonderful friends, as well. ~ Mike Weinstein Psynergy Enterprise Developments, LLC Michael Weinstein | 408.465.8282 www.PsynergyEquine.com Ar abian Horse Times | 12 | Ar abians International
Multi-National Champion
PITONISA AS
(Ever After NA x Psyches Amber Dream)
Arabian Breeders World Cup Gold Supreme Champion Jr. Stallion
Sandro and Gil have shared their entire knowledge with me from the beginning, and this allowed me to have conversations at a different level, with more points of view to form ideas. ~ Rodrigo Gonzalez TITAN AS
(El Nabila B Ă— Om El Beladeena)
Arabian Soul Partners Arturo Ortega, Alfredo Solorzano & Rodrigo Gonzalez www.ArabianSoul.com
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(Psytanium x GP Beyonce by Botswana) Arabian Breeders World Cup Champion Yearling Colt Section A and Supreme Top Five Yearling Colt
ENZINO PCF
(Enzo x Maria PCF by DA Valentino) Arabian Breeders World Cup Supreme Gold Champion Yearling Colt
Sandro and Gil, Thank you so much for your excellent care of our horses over the years. We value your talents and dedication tremendously. We know that our success would not be possible without all that you do. Each year we grow more excited for the next show. You guys are the best!
TESLA MARC PCF
(QR Marc x RD Mirella by Baywatch V) 2017 Scottsdale Signature Stallion Champion Yearling Filly
Sam Peacemaker | 480.963.5222 www.PCFArabians.com
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avalon
BENICIO PCF
Multi-National Champion (Magnum Chall HVP x Major Love Affair) Pictured with Sandro at the 2015 Arabian Breeders World Cup
We have used Sandro and Gil as our training and showing professionals for around 12 years. We have become very close to them and congratulate them on their many successes. We are proud to call them friends.
Las Vegas Supreme Gold Champion avalon
avalon
EL CHALL WR
GRAND COMMANDD (Beijing BHF x GA Mi Grandlady)
Robert & Dixie North 760-789-3208 | Robert Mobile: 619.992.9832 www.NorthArabians.com Ar abian Horse Times | 15 | Ar abians International
Multi-National Champion
PITONISA AS
(Ever After NA x Psyches Amber Dream) Bred by Lisa Markley Arabians
Sandro and Gil have helped me accomplish my greatest Dream as a breeder, but its more than that to me, we share respect, friendship and love for one another. Lisa Markley Arabians Lisa Markley| 480.220.3100 Lisamarkleyarabians.com
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Scottsdale & Regional Champion
BOYZ WILLBE BOYZ FF
osteen
schatzberg/osteen
2017 Scottsdale Junior Champion Half-Arabian Colt/Gelding
schatzberg/osteen
(Vitorio TO x Three Times ALady FF)
2017 Region I Champion H/A Breeders Sweepstakes Colt/Gelding
U.S. National Top Ten
U.S. National Top Ten
UPTOWN HOTTIE FF
osteen
Perry & Suzanne Perkins Santa Barbara, CA suzanne@suzanneperkins.com 805.895.2138
(Vitorio TO x JB Hometown Hottie FF)
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EASY DOES IT FF
(Eccentric Valentino x PF Just Peachy Keen)
schatzberg
Sandro & Gil ... Two amazing young men with so much talent. Perry and I are thrilled with the incredible care our horses are receiving at their facility.
DAMARA VO
(QR Marc x Dumka)
2017 Arabian Breeders World Cup Top Ten Junior Mare of 2014
We have been doing business together for several years now. I really enjoy your professionalism and attitude towards your clients. You make showing and competing fun, not stressful. It is a pleasure to do buisness with both of you, and your staff is the best. Manny Vierra | Valley Oak Arabians Brentwood, CA | 510.325.3974 www.ValleyOakArabians.com
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IA MAFIOSO (Truest x IA Ana Vida)
2017 Region 2 Champion Sweepstakes Yearling Colt
Success isn’t lucky. Success is built. Gil and Sandro love what they do and it shows. We have been through a lot together, and it has been a fun ride, my friends. Love to you both! Darcy & Alp Ilercil Scottsdale, AZ
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RD MIRELLA (Baywatch V x Alanna)
I love the way Sandro brings many of his horses into the arena with their neck held high, their tail curled over the back, and they are trotting all fired up. He has a close hold next to the halter. It just makes the horse look so exotic and full of themselves. No one has that entrance down as well as Sandro and Gil. They have raised the bar in that area of the halter world!
Gary Kehl | GRK Farms Trainer: Priscilla Cluff | 801.234.0295 www.GRKFarms.com Ar abian Horse Times | 20 | Ar abians International
Las Vegas Champion
CARMEN MC
(Grand Commandd x Madam Marwan WCF)
avalon
Sandro & Gil, Thank you for making this happen!
Arabian Breeders World Cup Champion Arabian Junior Mare ATH Esperanza Arabians | Jeannette & Walt Lane Riverside, CA www.Esperanzaarabians.com
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TOI DIVA CRF
schatzberg
(Matoi x Glamorize) 2004 NSH Grand Champion Stallion Row Weanling Jackpot
TOI SUPREME CRF (Matoi x Alpha Phi)
2003 NSH Grand Champion Stallion Row Weanling Jackpot
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National Champion
SIR MARWAN CRF
ferrara
(Marwan Al Shaqab x Ames Mirage)
2003 U.S. National Champion Yearling Sweepstakes Colt
AMES CHARISMA (Magnum Psyche x Ames Mirage)
Gil & Sandro, The memories we’ve shared will live with us forever. Thank you for every one. We wish you continued success in your incredible careers. ~Dick, Lollie & Lara
Jordan, MN www.Cedar-Ridge.com
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28311 N 66th Street, Cave Creek, AZ 85331
www.ArabiansInternational.com Sandro Pinha 480.226.0001
Sally Townley 972.213.6831
Gil Valdez 480.226.7357
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