25/08/2026
On August 22nd we celebrated Jan D’Esopo, honored by the Federación Ecuestre de Puerto Rico for a legacy that helped shape equestrian sport on the island. 🐎
Jan’s equestrian life spanned four decades, from the 1970s through 2010. During those years, alongside her husband, Hector “Manuco” Gandía, trainer and Chef d’Équipe of the Puerto Rico Equestrian Team, their family represented Puerto Rico internationally, from London to Morocco and even Cuba.
Jan was a pioneering horsewoman in Puerto Rico, practicing both show jumping and dressage. She envisioned and developed the legendary Feria de El Morro, bringing three day equestrian shows to the grounds of El Morro, with the Atlantic as their backdrop.
And, as only Jan could, she brought her two worlds together.
As both an artist and equestrian, Jan designed, built and painted monumental jumps inspired by Puerto Rican architecture and landmarks, transforming the course itself into a work of art. She also created the trophies for the Clásico D’Esopo as beautiful sculptural reliefs, making even the awards an extension of her artistic vision.
Her influence has continued through generations of riders, and her support of Puerto Rico’s equestrian community continues to this day.
Artist. Horsewoman. Visionary. And always unmistakably Jan.
What a beautiful moment to see her surrounded by a new generation of Puerto Rican equestrians. 🤍
Thank you to the Federación Ecuestre de Puerto Rico for honoring a woman whose imagination, generosity and fearless spirit have left their mark far beyond the ring.
Jan D’Esopo, a true pioneer of Puerto Rican equestrian sport.
