Thoroughbred Horses
15.2hh - 17hh
Colors are commonly bay, chestnut, brown or grey. White markings on the legs below the knee and on the face are acceptable.
The Thoroughbred is a distinct breed of horse originally bred for the speed and endurance necessary to win races. King Henry the VIII was the first royal patrol of racing, mixing the Barb with local breeds.
Everything changed, however, in the 17th century when three Arab stallions - Byerley Turk, Darley Arabian and Godolphin Arabian, were introduced into English bloodstock. Added for their ability to produce consistent offspring rather than for speed, these three became the foundation sires for the modern Thoroughbred. The word "Thoroughbred" first appeared in 1821and the breed has emerged to be the greatest single influence in the world on our contemporary horse population. Sometimes thought of as flighty, in truth they combine speed, courage and stamina with a powerful work ethic.
A typical Thoroughbred has a finely chiseled head, a long neck, high withers, a deep chest, a slender body and long legs. All these characteristics make the Thoroughbred refined, agile and fast. Any recognized Thoroughbred has to be listed in the Jockey Club registry. This is possible only if the Thoroughbred is the product of a "live cover," meaning by the witnessed natural mating of a registered stallion and a mare An outstanding athlete, in addition to racing Thoroughbreds excel as hunters, jumpers and three day eventers.
