In the city of Aquidauana we were greeted with yet another party.

“Filipe, the Mayor and Secretary of Tourism are going to put on an event today to welcome you,” Reinaldo Kastanha, a local rodeo announcer said as I arrived at the edge of the city.

I made my way downtown accompanied by the police, and as I rode down the main street, decorated with green and yellow ribbons, locals took photos of the ponies and greeted us with smiles. After about half an hour we arrived at the tourism office where the Secretary, Lajania Ribeiro, was waiting for us with other riders.

“We want to welcome you to our city Filipe and give you a few gifts,” said Lajania as she handed me a bag full of gifts.

One rider played the berrante – a Brazilian wind instrument that is made out of a cow horn and used to call the cattle in the field. We made our way to Aquidauana’s roping arena, and as I rode along with the local cowboys I found myself exchanging stories and answering the many questions they asked.

“Which one is the mustang that the Indians gave you?” a small boy mounted on a mule asked.

Dude has become quite the celebrity here in Brazil. He is believed to be the only mustang in the country and everyone wants to meet him.

“Wow he’s so strong!” the young boy said, as he looked Dude over.

At the roping arena the Mayor, Ze Henrique was waiting for us with a delicious lunch.

“Filipe, thank you so much for choosing to ride through our town, I hope you enjoy your time here,” the Mayor said as we shook hands.

We ate, laughed and had a great time at the event. Thank you so much for welcoming us with so much love Aquidauana!