Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil in 1968, Marcelo started to ride for fun in a small club in Sao Paulo in 1979. It was not until 1984 did he start to take lessons with one of the best riders and trainers in Brazil, Cel. Renyldo Ferreira who has over 60 years experience including, representing Brazil at 4 Olympic Games. Mr. Ferreira passed on a lot of knowledge to Marcelo during the 7 years that he trained him.
In 1987 Marcelo decided to become more than just a rider, he became a judge, course designer and trainer. He took many lessons and attended many clinics with the biggest names in show jumping, including:
- Linda Allen – Course designer of ’96 Atlanta Olympic games
- Steve Stephens – Wellington, Florida Course designer
- Leopoldo Palacios – Course designer of ’00 Sidney Olympic games
- Frank Madden – Well known trainer
- George Morris – International trainer
- Nelson & Rodrigo Pessoa – International Show Jumper
- Vitor Teixeira - International rider and trainer
- Joe Fargis - 2 time Olympic Gold Medalist 1984
In 1988 Marcelo put his experience to good use and took the position of the director of the equestrian school at the prestigious club of Santo Amaro in Sao Paulo. In less than one year the school was considered one of the best schools in the state, with more than 300 students. Marcelo used all his knowledge to put into practice what he learned from all the incredible teachers and riders, thus proving that you have to be more than just a good rider to teach.
Marcelo also spent some time in Europe training and competing in shows in France and Belgium. He spent time traveling with the Brazilian team working directly with Nelson and Rodrigo Pessoa. He also spent time with the French team, working with Pierre Durand and the incredible Jappeloup: 1988 Olympic champions. Spending time in Europe gave Marcelo a different view of how to ride and how to teach. He learned that teaching is more than knowing just what to say, but also knowing when and how, in order to get the best results from your students.
Today, Marcelo trains his own horses and gives lessons to a select number of students.
