Our Story
The Story of KATAU
There is an immortal quest within us all to empower our childhood dreams. The imagination of a child is limitless, and in pursuit of such a glorious reward, as an archipelago community, we can achieve anything.
It was in 1967, when Luís Spencer returned to Cape Verde. After working in Europe for many years, he had finally come home - and now, at last, he had the opportunity to own his first horse. This was a dream come true, and his life was changed forever. He never felt as free and limitless as he did while riding a beautiful horse within the community.
He then purchased a female horse, an égua, which bore many horses - including a very special male horse, a stallion. The Stableman, João “Jon” Mendes, cared for and rode the young horse into town every day. The horse was so majestic and strong. It ambled down the cobblestone streets with a unique percussive rhythm, ‘ka-tau, ka-tau, ka-tau…’. With such a beautiful stride, and the resemblance of the American champion horse ‘Katau’, the wisdom of the name ‘KATAU’ was imparted upon him and he named the stallion KATAU.
KATAU was all but enshrined in glory and went on to live for twenty-five years; beloved by all.
About RAÇAKATAU
Today, RAÇAKATAU carries the legacy of KATAU across our entire brand. Our vision is to channel the grandeur of Cape Verdean Culture. This community of islands has immense passion, morabeza and value to give to the world - and with every piece of apparel and accessories we put our logo on, we follow the nature of KATAU, and our name, RAÇAKATAU, revealing a strong culture of physical and social qualities revered the world over.
Our mission is to strive to provide our customers with an irreplaceable experience through passion, culture, creativity, and attention to detail.
Inspired by the legendary horse KATAU and the immense passion of the islands, the RAÇAKATAU brand and products help benefit and enchant the world - in the way we design and produce everything we make. We all wish to empower our childhood dreams. RAÇAKATAU is our dream come true, and through everything we do, we can help empower you.
Come discover what the Cape Verdean Culture has to offer. Experience the legend of KATAU in your everyday life - and carry, in your heart, the power to change the world.