Saturday, August 18, 2012

The Noble And Spirited Thoroughbred Is Much More Than Just A Racehorse

By Muriel Noel


The term 'thoroughbred' sometimes refers to a purebred horse of some description but technically it is a breed in its own right. Thoroughbreds are found in all disciplines but especially on the racetrack. It is the fastest of the breeds. It is known as a 'hot-blooded' horse. This means it is fast, fiery and high-spirited. By contrast, cold-blooded horses are the heavy horses like the Clydesdale and Shire that are used for draft work.

The thoroughbred is the epitome of elegance and beauty. It is usually quite tall standing over 15.2 hands high. Horses are measured in increments of four inches called 'hands'. Although it should be robust, it is not heavily built. It has a finely chiseled head with a straight or dished profile. The legs are straight and clean.

If a horse is to be fast he needs sloping shoulders and powerful quarters. For racing, horses also need good hearts and lungs. A deep chest allows for this. The coat is fine and never becomes very thick even in the middle of winter. Most need extra rugged in winter.

While a broken-color Thoroughbred is rarely seen, some breeders are specializing in their production. However, at the moment they are not seen on the racetrack. The most unusual coloring seen in the breed was The Tetrarch, an undefeated Irish horse which was born in 1911. The Tetrarch was grey with white splotches. All solid colors are commonly seen as are white markings on the face and legs.

The majority of the breed is used in racing and steeple-chasing. Smaller ones which have the required temperament are used for polo and polocrosse which calls for agile, fast mounts. Many are successful in eventing, show-jumping and dressage. Some don't have the strength and/or temperament for certain disciplines.

The Thoroughbred had its beginnings in England and is now found throughout the world. It is a great 'improver' of other breeds and the blood-lines can be found in the backgrounds of many breeds. When crossed with heavier horses, it adds elegance and speed. Such crossbred horses are in high demand for eventing and hunting.




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