The Palio is not just a horse race. It is considered a matter of life and death and it would take a riot, an earthquake or a plague to stop it. In 1940 when Il Duce declared war against Britain and France, the Palio was prohibited and the race ceased until 1945 when an ‘extraordinary’ Palio of Peace was held to celebrate Hitler’s defeat.
Modern Palio horses are Anglo-Arabs, bred especially for the challenge of the race. They have incredible temperaments and will bond very closely with their fantinos, the jockeys, who must ride them bareback. Whips are allowed in the race but they are used to hit the other riders. Shoving, kicking and punching your opponents is also allowed, earning the Palio its reputation as the world’s most dangerous horse race. Throughout the entire history of the Palio, there have been only two female fantinos.
Other books by Stacy Gregg
The Princess and the Foal
The Island of Lost Horses
Pony Club Secrets series:
Mystic and the Midnight Ride
Blaze and the Dark Rider
Destiny and the Wild Horses
Stardust and the Daredevil Ponies
Comet and the Champion’s Cup
Storm and the Silver Bridle
Fortune and the Golden Trophy
Victory and the All-Stars Academy
Angel and the Flying Stallions
Liberty and the Dream Ride
Nightstorm and the Grand Slam
Issie and the Christmas Pony
Pony Club Rivals series:
The Auditions
Showjumpers
Riding Star
The Prize
www.stacygregg.co.uk
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