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José Leoncio González de Gregorio
(1930–2008)

Biographical

Knight of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem 1953

In the 1950s, Leoncio was one of the most celebrated riders in national equestrian sports. He competed in numerous horse events and earned several accolades. His impressive performances, often featured in both sports and general newspapers, were highlighted as he rode horses such as Somio, Monchales, and Sarajevo, competing head-to-head with world champion Goyoaga. It was during one of these competitions that he met his future wife, the Duchess of Medina Sidonia, who, somewhat dismissively, came to refer to him as 'the rider'.

Place of birth: Madrid
Place of first marriage: Mortera, Santander
Place of death: Soria
Place of burial: Quintana Redonda, Soria

Son of Leoncio González de Gregorio and Leticia Martí, he was married firstly to Luisa Álvarez de Toledo in 1955 (with issue; divorced 2005), and secondly to María de las Maravillas Almarza. He also had illegitimate issue by Marta de Molina von Stranz and Rosario Muñoz.

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