About EIC

Ricardo is from Uruguay. His father, Alberto Rivero has been the trainer and manager for the same Arabian horse farm for nearly 40 years, Haras Pavone (Owned by Bartolome Mitre ~ an amazing breeder of exquisite Arabian horses in Argentina). Ricardo was 9 years old when he first began to “help” his dad in the show ring. It was customary to show mares while their foals were still at their side… Ricardo “showed” the babies, while his father showed the mare. His passion for horses in general drove him to learn as much as he possibly could from anyone and everyone who would teach him. When Ricardo was offered the opportunity to work with Rodolfo Guzzo in Brazil at his renowned training facility, wild horses couldn’t stop him! Rodolfo arranged Ricardo’s first trip to the United States when he went to Travis Hansen’s place in Utah to assist in preparing horses for Scottsdale. Ricardo knew immediately that he would someday live and work in the States permanently… he was amazed by the vast Arabian horses, horse shows and opportunities available here in the States.

Although I had grown up in the horses with my mom (Jo West Lauter), my first real memories in the horse business began at age 9 as well. My mom was Gene LaCroix’s assistant at the great Lasma Arabians in Scottsdale. I spent every waking moment in the stallion barn. I didn’t fully realize the importance of the incredible horses that lived in that barn, or just how much they would influence the “rest” of my life! I was the “personal” groom for El Paso (because of his gentle nature), I sat at Dr. LaCroix’s side nearly every morning in his golf cart as mares were teased and naturally bred witnessing the breeding of what would later become some of the most influential horses of all time… but the highlight for me… I was given the honor of sitting on *Bask for my 11th birthday. I was very fortunate… after Lasma, my mom managed Nicasio Valley Arabians (then home of Bey Shah) … later, we moved to Make Believe Farm (then Home to the “future” National Champion, Padron)… need-less-to-say, I worked with and around incredible horses and amazing people. I didn’t have any idea how much it would all mean to me for the “rest” of my life…

Ricardo’s horsemanship abilities are truly amazing! I have spent my life around some of the most talented horseman in the World and have never been around someone who cares for and understands the horses as much as he does.

Equine Image Center sold 2 million dollars worth of horses last season. We hoped for great success when we opened our doors again last year here in Scottsdale… we really had no idea it would be so great! We have sold horses all over the World, including Kuwait, Brazil, Argentina, Belgium and of course across the States. Despite the current World economy, the Arabian business seems to be thriving. The exotic, high end horses are like art… those who enjoy fine art are rarely affected by the World economy…

As much as we enjoy the horse shows, to us, the marketing takes precedence over the shows. We see the shows as a “tool” for the marketing. We have learned the importance of clients enjoying themselves with their horses. The parties, dinners, get togethers are crucial to the success of not only our individual business, but the Arabian Horse Business as a whole. Marketing, in our opinion, must be simple, memorable, inviting and fun. To us, a great party or gathering with all those elements, along with beautifully presented, quality horses are what its all about!