Meet Soldano!

Last month we expanded on this year’s Italia theme, which is inspired by the rich history, beautiful landscape, and diverse culture of Italy. Many Italian breeds are not commonly found in the U.S., but our search led us to a very special horse who calls Montana home - meet Soldano V.DM!

As the first Murgese (pronounced like moor-JAY-zeh) to step foot on North American soil, Soldano V.DM., a four-year-old blue roan stallion, is showing us just how amazing this breed is!  

When equine veterinarian and ethical horse breeder Samantha Hauke was looking for her next adventure, she stumbled upon the Murgese breed and was instantly hooked. Shortly after learning about Carletto, the first Murgese to be awarded Grand Prix in dressage, Samantha knew this breed was exactly what she was looking for in her breeding program. She connected with Jolanda Adelaar, Carletto’s owner and trainer, who helped hand-pick a Murgese for Samantha. In 2023, Samantha imported Soldano V.DM from Italy.

While he’d had limited handling prior to being imported, his unflappable temperament and hardiness can be attributed to the way the breed is raised. Traditionally, Murgese are left almost untouched until they are 2 years old. During these formative years, they live turned out in a herd, roaming on varied terrain, building strength and confidence as they mature. These traits can be seen in how wisely Soldano handles himself when turned out on acres of Montana brush at Samantha’s Quartz Creek Ranch.

In addition to competing in dressage, the athletic Soldano enjoys trail riding, camping, working equitation, and has even ponied other horses in the mountains! Samantha says he handles new situations with ease and shows a willingness to try anything. His adaptability under saddle and versatility are testaments to the Murgese breed.

As a proud advocate for this breed, Samantha plans to breed Soldano and further share her love for the Murgese. Soldano is currently in the process of becoming a registered stallion with the National Association of Breeders of the Murgese (A.N.A.M.F.). It is hoped that he will welcome his first foal crop soon, and make history with the first Murgese foal to be born in North America.

Soldano V.DM is done on the Murgese Stallion model, mold #824 sculpted by Sarah Minkiewicz-Breunig, in a dazzling blue roan color. He will be available to select BreyerFest ticket holders, and all in-person attendees will be able to meet this handsome stud next summer at BreyerFest.

Stay tuned as the BreyerFest blog globetrots through many of the unique regions of Italy, and introduces fans to the incredible horse breeds, history, landscape, food, art, and culture that make this country a can’t miss destination. Make sure you keep your virtual passport handy as we kick off this informative series of posts next week with Lazio!