Riding Pony

The riding pony is a result of a cross between native pony mares such as the Welsh, Dartmoor, or sometimes Exmoor breeds with a small Thoroughbred, or Arab stallion.

One notable Arab stallion, called Naseel, has contributed significantly to the development of the riding pony.

They should be very elegant and graceful and have perfect manners. The ponies are typically beautiful in appearance with correct and proportioned conformation and small intelligent heads, with large, wide-spaced eyes.

The head must retain pony characteristics. They should be deep through the girth, compact and well-muscled quarters. The legs should be clean and strong with short cannons.

They should have freeflowing action from the shoulder with well- engaged hocks behind. They are divided into three categories based on their height: 12.2 hh and under, up to 13.2 hh and up to 14.2 hh, and can be any whole colour.

The French also produce a riding pony, called the Poney Francais de Selle, although it does not have quite the same quality and refinement as English riding pony. The French riding pony is currently being produced as more of a all-round pony club pony, and is a very useful type.

Horse Fact:
A 'dark horse' is the name given to an unexpected winner; this is especially relevant in politics when a 'dark horse' is a candidate considered unlikely to be nominated by their party, but who might be chosen if the party leaders cannot agree on a better candidate.

The infamous jump at Aintree called Becher's Brook was named after Captain Becher, who fell at the jump during the inaugural Grand National.

The beautiful-looking pony which has been influenced, in particular, by the Arab.