The Welsh Pony probably comes from ancient Celtic stock, as it was already found roaming across Wales at the time of the Roman invasion.  It was always a strong, hardy little pony, and it must have received approval from the Roman conquerors, since it was sometimes used to pull chariots in the arenas. After the Romans departed, however, the Welsh Pony was largely left to … Continue reading Welsh Pony

Horse racing was long a popular pastime among the royalty in Europe, but in no country did the sport of kings influence the culture as it did in England.  Britain was home to horse races as early as the Middle Ages.  When King Henry VIII took the throne and founded the royal racing stables, however, the sport became serious business. The second major event of … Continue reading Thoroughbred

The multipurpose horse was a common fixture in early American society.  Few could afford to keep a horse simply for pleasure.  Those who took time out to indulge in an informal race against a neighbor expected their horse to go back to plowing, hauling, or providing transportation afterward. But not all races involved galloping full tilt down the street or across the field.  Some horses … Continue reading Standardbred