Huaso horse

Huaso (1933–August 24, 1961) was a Chilean horse ridden by Captain Alberto Larraguibel who set the high-jump world record on February 5, 1949, in Viña del Mar, Chile. The record of 2.47 meters (8 ft 1 in) stood for 70 years, making it one of the longest unbroken records in history.

Originally named Faithful, Huaso was purchased by Chilean Army Captain Gaspar Lueje after failing as a racehorse and showing little promise in dressage due to an accident that left him with a limp. He was later spotted jumping over a 2-meter-high wall while being trained riderless. Recognizing his potential, he was bought by an Army horse master, renamed Huaso, and trained for high-jump at the Cavalry Academy in Quillota under Larraguibel.

After two years of intensive training, Huaso achieved the world record on his third attempt during a competition in Viña del Mar. The final jump involved precise calculation and control, with Larraguibel describing the moment as terrifying yet successful. Retired after the record, Huaso lived freely until his natural death at age 28.

A commemorative statue in Viña del Mar honors Huaso and Larraguibel, with a plaque quoting Larraguibel’s reflection on the jump. The high-jump record should not be confused with the Puissance record, which involves jumping over walls of bricks rather than angled poles.