Selle FranCais Horses
Medium Weight: 15.3hh - 16.1hh and over
Heavy Weight: 16hh and over
Colors: Predominantly chestnut, though all colors are permitted
The Cheval de Selle Français (French Saddle Horse) is one of the greatest warmblood breeding success stories of the 20th century. Originally a combination of Thoroughbred with local French mares, they differ from other warmbloods in that there is a significant amount of fast trotting stock in their bloodlines as well. This gives them harmonious paces as well as a rare combination of speed, stamina and agility that makes them perfect for jumping.
The breed is divided into two classifications; the medium weight horse used for racing and the heavyweight horse used primarily for show jumping.
The French Warmblood differs from that in neighboring countries in that success in competition by stallions, mares or their progeny is the basis for selection rather than a grading system. It's brought the Selle Français incredible success, particularly in show jumping, in a relatively short span of time. Bloodlines with more Thoroughbred influence are also outstanding competitors in three-day eventing and steeple chasing.
Famous show jumper Galoubet had trotter blood on his dam's (mother's) side a couple of generations back. Jappeloup who won individual and team gold in the Olympics and the World Equestrian Games was direct descendant of a trotter. Ironically, despite his lineage Jappeloup had none of the breed's usual grace. In fact, he was notoriously clumsy (and trod on many human feet) as well as an uncomfortable ride thanks to the powerful hindquarters that made him such a spectacular jumper.
