 |
[RC] 5 most common breeds/mixes - what's important - Ridecamp GuestPlease Reply to: Mary Kornwolf mkornwolf@xxxxxxxxxxxxx or ridecamp@xxxxxxxxxxxxx ========================================== Here on the East Coast a fair number of riders compete Anglo Arabs (Arab/Thoroughbred cross). Saddlebred/Arab crosses and Quarter Horse/Arab crosses are also popular. These crosses tend to have a little more size than a full Arab and are popular with larger riders. A few people I know done quite well with a full QH or TB that they have carefully conditioned. And mule crosses are also seen, especially in the more mountainous areas. Among LD riders, you'll see more gaited horses like Tennessee Walkers and Paso Finos. By far Arabians dominate the sport. Of the various "strains," most seem to have Polish and Crabbet rather than Egyptian bloodlines. There's also some with more exotic bloodlines like Russian and Shagya. Bottom line: conformation, especially lower front legs, is more important than breed. Given long hours in the saddle, a comfortable trot is also crucial. Training and experience can help settle horses somewhat, but I prefer a horse who's basic temperament and disposition make it a pleasure to handle. I have to work a little harder to cool off my QH/Arab cross on a hot, humid day, but he's sensible, has a comfy flat trot, is easy to rate (I can ride in a snaffle), and decently behaved in vet checks. Best of all, he loves to travel and really seems to enjoy being at the ride. No one breed has pre-empted that all-important trait! ============================================================ There is something so magical about being out at night after being on the trail all day on a long 100 with miles left to go. ~ Tom Noll ridecamp.net information: http://www.endurance.net/ridecamp/ ============================================================
|