We were privileged to have had PJP Diamante del Norte, 14.3 hand stallion, from 2003 until his death in 2008.
We know that no horse is perfect, but in Diamante we felt fortunate to have found a stallion to continue to build our long-standing program of excellence. We have created horses consistent for strength, wonderful reach, short backs and smoooth gaits with correct timing. We would never sacrifice any of that for the sake of "flash". However, in Diamante we found a stallion that had all of the characteristics we prize, and a loose stylish movement that attracts the attention of everyone.
Diamante was 75% Northern Bloodlines and was an interesting cross for mares with mostly southern lines, which covers most of the show horses of our time.
Diamante had a steady gait with excellent timing, loose extravagant termino and high lift. He accomplished this while maintaining his smoothness not only in the saddle but in the rear, and without accompanying head movement. He also had an outstanding thread and is capable of a very slow paso llano as well as a sobreandando that really moved out. He also has a very even "metal" or sound to his gait, without the pounding common in horses with high action. He was truly an unusual combination of characteristics that is difficult to find.
To his beautiful movement, add the fact that his conformation is classical with a deep and broad chest, hip and ribcage. His legs set solidly under his body with plenty of natural angle and musculature in the rear, adding drive and consistent reach. His foals on the ground show a tremendous neck set and arrogant carriage along with loose movement.
In addition to being a horse of great energy, Diamante was a stallion of composure. He is quiet and dignified in the presence of other stallions and mares, and noble to handle. This is an absolute requirement in a breeding stallion for us and we are pleased that Diamante exceeded our expectations in every aspect of disposition.
The judge's comment: "This is a very distinguished horse that has characteristics we are in danger of losing in the breed."
We are fortunate to have a number of daughters and sons of PJP Diamante del Norte, many of which will enter our show strong in the near future.