From his very first contact with the equestrian world, Alexandre Mascarenhas de Lemos knew his destiny would unfold between arenas and bridles. Heir to one of Portugal’s most respected horsemen, he shares with his father both the name and the passion for horses, yet he is determined to carve his own path.
He grew up surrounded by horses, competition tales, and a family legacy built on discipline and precision. “I often say I was practically born on a horse,” he recalls. His first pony, Dalton, marked the beginning of an unbreakable bond: “It was with him that I learned the value of trust and surrender, principles that still guide my relationship with every horse.” From there, that connection evolved into a conscious, passionate craft; one that balances technique, emotion, and respect.
Inspired by his father, Alexandre learned early on that precision is as vital as sensitivity. Growing up in that environment shaped his outlook, yet his ambition is distinctly his own. Facing generational comparisons with composure became part of his evolution. “Being compared to a horseman with my father’s experience and vision is a compliment. My goal is to add my own dimension to that legacy.” That individuality now takes form in consistent performances, a poised professionalism, and a philosophy where sport becomes a mirror of inner balance.
His partnership with the horse Classico 70 embodies that balance. A 12-year-old stallion by Chin Chin and Caretino, endowed with rare energy and intelligence. In the arena, he displays power and focus; outside it, calmness, and affection. “From the very first moment, we created a silent language that makes words unnecessary.” Together they compete in 1.45 m and 1.50 m Grand Prix classes, a journey defined by talent, patience, and an extraordinary sense of detail.
“I like to think my work is like the mechanism of a Swiss watch: every gear must move in perfect synchronization.”
Physical and mental training are part of that same commitment. Alexandre practices kickboxing and functional workouts that help him build focus, endurance, and reaction. “I deeply believe that the horse reflects the rider’s inner state,” he says. That philosophy extends to reading, to daily discipline, and to the way he approaches every competition: with precision, courage, and a calmness forged through high-level sport.
Looking ahead, his ambitions are clear: to compete at Aachen, Spruce Meadows, Geneva, and The Dutch Masters; to consolidate his presence on the Global Champions Tour; and to keep nurturing a team where every role matters. “The rider is only the visible face of a complex structure. Precision and trust among everyone are essential.”
More than titles, the young horseman dreams of leaving a legacy. His Next Generation Riders project aims to train and support young Portuguese talents. “There’s great potential in Portugal, but we lack structures to turn that passion into a path.” A mission that encapsulates his spirit: discipline, authenticity, and unconditional love for the horse; the true beginning and end of his story.
