Marrafa dos Cedros Sold as Grand Prix Hopeful to the U.S.A.

Sales and Training

Ricardo Reis International and Elizabeth McConnell Dressage sold the Grand Prix hopeful Marrafa dos Cedros to the U.S.A. in December 2025.

Marrafa dos Cedros is a 2016 born Lusitano mare by Disturbio out of Imperatriz Cedros (by Zaire x Rubi AR). She is bred by Coudelaria Quinta dos Cedros.

Martim Meneres

The grey mare was sourced as a 2-year old as an FEI future hopeful by Portuguese youth team rider Martim Meneres, who was a young rider at the time.

He trained the talented mare up the levels and they made their international show debut in 2023 in the 7-year old classes at the CDI Samora Correia, where they won the Finals Test. Martim produced her up to Grand Prix level and premiered her at international medium tour level in 2025, showing her at CDI's in Alter do Chao and Samora Correia, where they posted promising top five results.

Horse scouts Ricardo Reis and Liz McConnell spotted Marrafa's quality as a Grand Prix horse.

"She embodies the essence of the Lusitano horse," said Reis. "She has finesse, agility, bravery, energy, elasticity and a constant desire to please her rider, combined with modern mechanics that. give three good gaits."

Sold to the U.S.A.

Reis and McConnell knew Marrafa dos Cedros would be the perfect match for U.S. amateur Grand Prix rider Jennifer Huber.

Bateson and Ricardo with Marrafa in Portugal

Huber's trainer, Katherine Bateson-Chandler, flew over to Portugal in December to try her out and it was an instant click.

"Katherine, like us, had the feeling this was the right horse for her client," said Liz. "As well as being beautifully trained in the basics by Martim, Marrafa has a huge ability for collection with a piaffe - passage tour that will be hard to beat. We are certain she will continue to shine as an FEI competition horse." Bateson added, "I am excited to have another outstanding Lusitano to work with.”

McConnell welcomed Marrafa in quarantine in Wellington, Florida, in December, where Katherine did the first flatwork. "It was a joy to watch Katherine ride her so beautifully, and even showing oﬀ a few steps of her oh so impressive passage before finishing the light ride," Liz reminisced. "

Huber is thrilled with her new Lusitano addition in the barn.

"She is sensible and serene and with an inner confidence that makes me feel comfortable and confident as well. She has such a lovely temperament. I am happy to have her here and look forwards to seeing what the future brings. Thank you to Katherine, Ricardo, Elizabeth and Martim."

Matchmakers Reis and McConnell

Marrafa dos Cedros is one of three top Grand Prix horses Ricardo and Elizabeth sold to the United States in 2025.

Bateson and Huber with Marrafa in Wellington

Nobel das Figueiras, a 9-year old Grand Prix gelding trained by Maria Caetano, was recently sold to Judy Sloan who is trained by Molly Maloney and Katherine Bateson. Imperador DR, a 13-year old Grand Prix horse, was sold to Barbara Lightner who trains with Jennifer Roth in Ohio. Imperador DR and Jennifer Roth have already competed successfully, coming Reserve Champion at both the Regional Championships and the US Final Championships at the Grand Prix level!

Ricardo and Elizabeth work diligently with their clients to find the right match. Reis brings his vast experience and knowledge of the Lusitano to the partnership, while the two have a trusted network throughout Europe and North America.

"Whether you are looking for a Lusitano or a warmblood, we are passionate about finding the right horse for you or for your client," said Liz. "We work closely with all the top agencies, taking care of the import process for our clients. If you are ready to look for your special equine partner please reach out to us."

Ricardo Reis (Europe) 351 910 957 759
Elizabeth McConnell (North America) 302-685 0237