What is the Difference Between a Paint Horse vs. a Pinto?

The short answer between the differences of a Paint Horse vs. a pinto is that Paint is a breed based on bloodlines, and pinto is a coat color pattern that can be found in horses of many different breeds. The longer answer is a bit more complicated.

Paints and pintos typically have one thing in common: a flashy coat featuring patches of white and a solid color, such as bay, black or chestnut. Beyond that, there are many differences.

What is a Paint Horse?

For one, a Paint Horse is a breed that, according to the American Paint Horse Association (APHA), “has strict bloodline requirements and a distinctive stock-horse body type.” Paint Horses can only have the bloodlines of Quarter Horses, Paint Horses or Thoroughbreds in their pedigrees. In order to qualify for registration with the APHA, their sire and dam must be registered with the APHA, the American Quarter Horse Association or the Jockey Club (the breed registry for Thoroughbreds). 

What Kind of Horse is a Pinto?

On the other hand, “pinto” is a term that refers to the colorful coat pattern and is not the name of a particular breed of horse. Any horse that displays one of several coat patterns is considered a pinto. Breeds that commonly produce pinto horses include the American Saddlebred, Gypsy Horse and Miniature Horse. Breeds such as the Spotted Saddle Horse and Spotted Draft Horse are exclusively pintos. 

Paint Horses traditionally have pinto coat patterns. However, horses from APHA-registered stock that do not have pinto coloring can still be registered with the APHA as “Solid Paint-Bred” horses, formerly known as “Breeding Stock” Paints.

There are two main registries for pinto horses—The Pinto Horse Association of America and the National Pinto Horse Registry—and each separates pintos into categories depending on their breeding and conformation. The Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association and the International Pattern Sporthorse Registry also accept pinto horses. The Pintabian Horse Registry specifically registers pinto horses with primarily Arabian horse breeding. 

What Are Their Coat Patterns?

Pintos and Paints are described by their coat pattern. The two most common patterns are the tobiano and overo. Horses that display characteristics of both patterns are considered toveros. There are also several other pattern types, but that’s another whole article in itself!

For more information about pintos and their various coat patterns, check out the following sites:

◆ Pinto Horse Association of America
◆ American Paint Horse Association
◆ Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association
◆ National Spotted Saddle Horse Association
◆ International Pattern Sporthorse Registry
◆ Pintabian Horse Registry

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Bred for farm work and heavy carriage deliveries, Belgium’s native Belgian draft horse is more commonly seen in show and recreational pursuits today: weight-pulling competitions, in-hand performance or carriage driving. However, some agriculturalists are returning to horses like the Belgian as a more ecologically friendly method of cultivation.

The Belgian is a descendant of a medieval war mount, the Flemish horse, also known as the Great Horse. Later, stallions were exported to countries throughout Europe to add height and substance to other draft-type breeds for industrial and farm work.

American Story

The United States imported the first Belgians in the 1860s, and the Association of Importers and Breeders of Belgian Draft Horses was established in 1887 to promote the breed. The Belgian Draft Horse Corporation of America grew from this organization in 1937 and remains the registry for the breed today.

In 1903, the Belgian’s powerful look and skills garnered much positive attention at the St. Louis World’s Fair and International Livestock Exposition in Chicago. Despite declines in numbers during World War II and the switch to mechanized farm equipment, the Belgian survived to become one of most popular draft breeds. Besides their strength, Belgians are loved for being docile, hard-working and hardy.

Belgian Draft Horse Fast Facts

Height: 16 to 18 hands high

Weight: Belgians can weigh more than 1 ton (2,000 pounds).

Color: Acceptable colors include blonde, sorrel and roan with light points, and chestnut. White manes and tails, as well as a white stripe on the face, are preferred.

Overall Appearance: Belgians have well-defined musculature, a level back, large hooves and a deep girth.

To learn more about the Belgian, visit the Belgian Draft Horse Corporation of America website.

Further Reading:
The 10 Biggest Horses: Giants of the Equine World

This article about the Belgian draft horse originally appeared in the December 2017 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Deep History of the Arabian Horse

Perhaps the Arabian horse’s legendary history is part of what has contributed to its popularity.

“The Arabian horse was used as an ambassador and was often given as a treasured gift to royalty or important political figures,” says Susan Meyer, vice president at large of the Arabian Horse Association, vice president of the Arabian Jockey Club and a trustee of the Purebred Arabian Trust. She and her husband, Jim, have owned and operated Meyercrest Arabians in North Carolina for 39 years, and have owned, bred and shown horses to championships at the local, regional and national level. They have also owned, bred and raced purebred Arabians across the United States.

“Arabians were also prized as spoils of war, and many governments established purebred breeding programs of their own,” continues Meyer. “As a result, almost all Arabian pedigrees can be traced back to a horse that was part of a historical event or figure. This link with history is a fun and exciting part of owning an Arabian horse.”

Despite the Arabian horse’s long and alluring history, it’s incredible that the breed has remained so true to its original physical traits, and that it has been able to perpetuate those qualities for so long.

Although the specific area of the Arabian Peninsula where the breed originated can’t be pinpointed, it is widely accepted that around 2500 B.C., the Bedouin people were responsible for developing the desert horses that became the ancestors of the Arabian horse. The nomads’ keen horse sense and meticulous attention to proper care and breeding created an animal that could withstand the harsh environment of the desert, surviving extreme heat and cold with little water and the food they shared with their handlers. A life of travel also required horses with great lung capacity, endurance and stamina.

Fascinating Facts

Many of the Arabian’s characteristics have an ancient religious or superstitious belief attached to them. These traits were highly sought after and became the focus of the Bedouins’ selective breeding practices.

• Jibbah: The bulging forehead was considered a blessing from God. The Bedouins believed that the larger an Arabian’s forehead, the more blessings he brought with him.
• Mitbah: The area where the head attaches to the neck—behind the ears along the topline of the neck and the throatlatch. The Mitbah symbolized courage.
• The Arabian was also prized for a petite, refined muzzle that could “fit into a teacup.”

In addition to wealth and good luck, most of the Arabian’s traits have a significant physical benefit. For instance, the short, dished head and flaring nostrils promote optimum oxygen intake. Furthermore, the Mitbah’s long, fine characteristics prevent the windpipe from being constricted when the head is in a collected frame, which promotes the free flowing of oxygen to the lungs at all times. And the deep chest and wide ribcage permit lung expansion.

• The breed’s Arabian name “Kohl-ani” is a reference to its eyes and skin. The smooth skin is the color of Kohl, a bluish-black substance that was used in Egypt in ancient times as eyeliner and eye shadow.
• Mares were prized over stallions because they perpetuated the breed. They were also preferred for war because they wouldn’t nicker to the enemy’s mounts during raids. Mares were so valued that they were rarely sold. If they changed owners, it was considered a very honorable gift

“The Bedouins and their horses depended on each other for survival, and this interdependency created a very strong human-animal bond,” says Meyer. “Also, only the soundest, most trainable and hardiest individuals survived and bred on. The Bedouins recognized the importance of preserving the attributes that they depended on so much, and their selective breeding practices concentrated on the positive attributes of individual lines. Because of this concentration of blood, even today’s Arabians are able to consistently and predictably pass on their abilities to their offspring. This makes them highly prized as breeding animals.”

Cultural Influence

The Arabian’s physical traits and ability to pass them on to other horse breeds became a major force behind its appeal to other societies in history. About 3,500 years ago, the Arabian helped expand empires such as Egypt and shaped cultures by influencing the horses that were used to settle nations, fight wars and grow economies.

When Arabia worked to spread Islam in 600 A.D., the Arabian horse carried Arab warriors throughout the Middle East and as far as North Africa, Spain and China. Through this effort, and as a result of the expansive Christian Crusades during the 11th and 13th centuries, the Arabian horse began leaving its mark on European horses. It added refinement to heavier draft breeds and height to smaller ponies.

However, its greatest influence was likely that of developing the English Thoroughbred. Three stallions—the Godolphin Barb, Darley Arabian, and Byerly Turk—are credited with being the foundation sires of the Thoroughbred breed between the late 1600s and mid-1700s. Today, the majority of Thoroughbreds can be traced to one of these sires. In turn, the Thoroughbred added to the influence of the Arabian by passing on the traits it inherited from this ancient horse to many other breeds, particularly the American Quarter Horse.

“The Arabian has demonstrated a unique ability to consistently pass on its desirable traits,” says Meyer. “For centuries, nearly all light horse breeds and some draft and warmblood breeds have used the Arabian horse to develop or improve their breed. The Arabian’s ability to influence other breeds is well demonstrated by today’s Thoroughbred racehorses. Genetic testing has proven that 95 percent of all modern Thoroughbred racehorses trace to [one of these foundation] stallions. The mighty Secretariat traced to all three of the foundation stallions.”

Rise and Fall of the Arabian Horse in History

In the 1800s, influential Arabian stud farms were established all over Europe. The historic Crabbet Arabian Stud in England, founded by 15th Baroness Wentworth Lady Anne Blunt and her husband, Wilfred Blunt, produced horses that contributed to the spread of the Arabian breed to Russia, Poland, Australia, Egypt, and North and South America.

In the United States, Randolph Huntington started what is considered to be the first purebred Arabian horse breeding program in history, established in 1888. Later, 45 Arabian horses exhibited at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair inspired further interest in the breed in America. This led to the formation of the first stud book and the Arabian Horse Club of America registry in 1908, now known as the Arabian Horse Association. Subsequent breeding farms and importations in the early and mid-1920s led to further growth of the breed in the United States. Davenport Arabians and Kellogg Ranch, which was established by cereal tycoon W.K. Kellogg, were two of the breeding farms that moved to the forefront of the industry at that time.

“In the late 1800s and early 1900s, several wealthy American entrepreneurs became enthralled with the history, beauty, athletic ability and unique human-animal bond that the Arabian horse represented,” says Meyer. “They began importing Arabian horses from the Middle East and Europe. These horses were not only used to cross with indigenous horses, but they were also used to establish herds of breeding stock to preserve a source of purebred Arabians here in the United States.

“In the 1960s, 70s and 80s, the large inventory of purebred Arabians that were the result of these breeding programs enabled the Arabian to become affordable for the average American family, and the same attributes that attracted the early breeders to the Arabian made them extremely attractive to American families,” continues Meyer. “During that time period, more than 30,000 purebred Arabian foals were born every year. These were unprecedented numbers that far exceeded any other country, and as a result, there are as many registered Arabian horses in the United States as nearly all other countries combined.”

An unfortunate result of this boom in the U.S. Arabian population was a severe downturn in its popularity during the 1980s. Changes in the economy and indiscriminate breeding gave rise to misconceptions that left reputable breeders and promoters disheartened and struggling to pick up the pieces.

“After the breed became extremely affordable, it was also embraced by many celebrities, and the most valued breeding stock and show horses sold for astronomical amounts,” says Meyer. “These were the horses with the highest profiles and the stories that were most often publicized, so the perception that Arabians are extremely expensive still persists. However, Arabian horses run the gamut of price ranges, and the vast majority of them are as affordable as any breed.”

Making a Comeback

A new focus in the 1990s on ability and promoting the Arabian as an all-around performer and family horse helped launch a resurgence for the breed after its rich history. Because of this, Arabian horse owners enjoy participating in various equestrian sports today, from reining to dressage. The breed particularly excels in endurance and trail riding.

“Many people in the modern dressage world value Arabian blood to bring lightness and suppleness to their horses,” says Meyer. “Even working western disciplines appreciate the endurance that Arabians can add to their horses that must work long hours over rough terrain. And in distance riding events, the Arabian is king. All of the major distance events are dominated by Arabians.”

The Arabian also continues to fight an enduring misconception about being high-strung, which has a lot to do with the breed’s past, says Meyer.

“The most prized horses of the Bedouins were the mares that were used in raiding other tribes,” explains Meyer. “A mare not only had to be unfailingly loyal to her master, but she also had to be fierce and courageous in battle. The uninformed can believe Arabians are naturally aggressive, when in fact, these traits are learned behaviors.

“The natural brilliance that the Arabian displays while at play has been emphasized in the show-ring in the halter division,” adds Meyer. “This learned behavior has only perpetuated the myth that the Arabian is flighty and nervous. This isn’t the way the Arabian deports itself day in and day out. The Arabian was the original family horse and is still an ideal horse for families today.”

A Bright Future

With so many qualities and rich history to admire about the Arabian horse and an exhibit such as the Arabian Galleries to promote it, the breed can look forward to maintaining its popularity in the horse community, according to Meyer.

“The same qualities that propelled the Arabian horse throughout the world are what ensure its longevity and continued popularity,” she explains. “The Arabian has proven that it has the ability to adapt and be successful. One horse can serve as a mount for [adults] and children in multiple disciplines. In today’s economy, with ever increasing pressures on space and the environment, the ability to serve multiple demands bodes well for the Arabian breed.”

Meyer believes two trends that have made their way into the Arabian horse industry will propel the breed into a successful future that will build upon its expansive history.

“Probably one of the most significant new trends has been the natural horsemanship approach to training,” says Meyer. “It’s especially suited to the Arabian personality. Arabians are naturally curious and interested in people, and particularly enjoy the interaction that is so important in this type of training. Arabians learn much faster and are easier to deal with using this approach versus other methods of training that depend more on negative reinforcement.”

Like most attributes about the Arabian horse, Meyer says this inclination toward natural horsemanship is linked to the breed’s past. “Because Arabians had to live among the Bedouin families, even residing in the tents with them at times, they had to be particularly docile and tractable,” explains Meyer. “The foals were weaned only a few days after birth and were raised by the women and children on camel’s milk and dates. The foals’ lives depended on their bond with humans, and over the centuries, the foals that had this affinity for connecting with humans have been the ones that bred on. The natural horsemanship methods allow this connection to develop to a very high level.”

Meyer says another trend that has secured the Arabian’s top position in the horse industry is the baby boomers’ growing interest in riding, and their desire for suitable mounts that are both athletic and reliable.

“The Arabian’s sensitivity and athletic abilities are particularly suited to the athletic challenges that the mature rider deals with, particularly in competitive disciplines,” says Meyer. “The strength and stamina of the rider is not as crucial when riding Arabians, as they are so easy to collect and maneuver.”

With an appeal that has drawn people of so many different backgrounds to the Arabian horse over the ages, the breed is sure to continue its influential role for a long time
to come.

Part II: A Fitting Tribute to the Arabian Horse >>
The Enduring Arabian >>
Question of the Week: Skinny Lesson Horse>>

This article about the history of the Arabian horse originally appeared in the January 2011 issue of Horse Illustrated. Click here to subscribe.

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• Team: two horses hitched side by side
• Tandem: two horses, one in front of the other
• Unicorn hitch: a team with one horse in front
• Four-horse hitch: two teams of horses
• Six-horse hitch: three teams of horses
• Eight-horse hitch: four teams of horses
• Lead team: the team of horses at the front of a hitch
• Swing team: the middle team of horses in a six-horse hitch
• Wheel team: the team of horses nearest the wagon

So how do the teams get selected? Josh Minshull, driver of the Express Clydesdales, a six-draft horse hitch representing Express Employment Professionals in Oklahoma, describes their process: “Color has to be right,” he says. “We like to have black with four white legs and white on their face. They have to be the right size, and then they have to have the right style and conformation to mate up with the rest of the team, because you want your whole team to be uniform.”

“Then you have positions in your hitch,” continues Minshull. “The wheel [team], which is closest to the wagon, is your biggest horses. Usually they should be pulling about 60 percent of the wagon, so you want them to be bigger, stronger horses. As you go out, the next team is the swing team, and they’re going to be a little bit smaller. Then the lead team is the smallest but the most athletic, most alert team. It takes awhile. We’re constantly switching horses around to have the best team at any particular time.”

When shown in competition or exhibition, draft horses traditionally display an eye-catching array of decorations in addition to their impressive wagons and shining harnesses. Plumes, tassels, mane flowers, mane rolls and tail bows are popular ways to accentuate the innate beauty of the draft breeds and add a bit of pageantry to hitches.

Read More: Draft Horses

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He’s Got Personality

Haflingers were surefooted pack horses in the Southern Tyrolean Mountains (present day Austria and northern Italy) during medieval times. The willing and kind breed has now become a favorite family horse.

“Their wonderful personalities allow you to grow strong bonds with them,” says Caraline Cornman, 17, of Pennsylvania, who has four Haflingers. “[My mare] Cashmere of Genesis is truly one of a kind. She has the funniest personality I have ever seen in a horse.”

Caraline’s family also owns the highest-scoring horse in the American Haflinger Registry’s inspection and classification program, Faith by Fire DAF (owned by Genesis Farm). She has been a dependable teammate for Caraline, who enjoys pleasure and combined driving.

“She’s the most talented Haflinger I’ve ever worked with,” says Caraline. “She combines an extremely smart and hardworking personality with incredible beauty and athleticism. She has been my favorite Haflinger to train.”

One for All

During World War II, Haflingers took their packing skills to the battlefields. Afterward, the focus shifted to breeding lighter horses that were versatile for both riding and driving to meet the growing demand of recreational equestrian sports.

Anna Haszelbart’s horses certainly prove the breed’s versatility.

“My mom loves driving carriages and has taught me how to drive too,” says Anna, 15, whose family has six Haflingers on their ranch in Colorado. “In 4-H, I ride English, western and gymkhana. Next year, I am planning on doing ranch horse in 4-H. My family enjoys trail riding on our ranch, too.”

Today, the Haflinger is a reliable teammate in many equestrian disciplines, including dressage, jumping, vaulting, driving, western, trail riding, endurance and therapeutic riding.

I Won a Haflinger

You read that right! Saige Matheny, 13, of Ohio won a Haflinger gelding through a contest done by the American Haflinger Registry Youth program.

“Brian and Dana Mitteer of Showme Haflingers in New York donated Noble Donation to the youth program,” says Saige. “He’s 7 months old. We will be learning a lot together. I will be responsible for his training and plan to show him next year in halter, showmanship and in-hand trail classes.”

Saige’s family has four other Haflingers that she rides and helps to train. “I love the Haflinger breed because they’re very friendly and mellow,” says Saige. “They are people-oriented and love to help you with everything. They are the first to run to the fence when you come to the barn!”

Find out more about the breed by visiting the American Haflinger Registry at www.haflingerhorse.com.

This article originally appeared in the March/April 2017 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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These horses look cool, but they also have great personalities. They’re known to be very gentle and like to work hard. They’re generally willing to try anything you want to do

“One thing I love about the breed is its calm nature,” says Sarah Thaut, 13, of Idaho. “Curlies are more curious than spooky. They would rather figure out what the strange thing is rather than run from it.”

Sarah has three Curly Horses, but WK Twizzler (“Twiz”) is her best friend. Together, Sarah and her 12-year-old mare enjoy trail riding, parades and gymkhana. “She is smart, super loyal and tries to do her best for me,” says Sarah of Twiz. “We think of Twiz as our ‘don’t worry, be happy’ horse.”

In 2015, Sarah was named an International Curly Horse Ambassador by the American Bashkir Curly Horse Registry for her work in rescuing and rehabilitating a 2-year-old filly named Karma.

“My mom runs a nationwide rescue named Curly Horse Action Team, or CHAT, that has rescued over 30 Curlies since it was started two years ago.”

There’s a Curly Horse for That

These  range in size and body type, so you can find a horse with a curly coat to suit whatever you want to do.

Kendahl D’Uva, 16, of Washington, rides in western performance, gaming and reining for the equestrian team at her high school. “I’ve gone many miles to compete at the state fair and at my high school equestrian meets,” says Kendahl. “Reining is my favorite.”

Kendahl has four Curlies, but her main competition horse is Rose, a 16-year-old mare. The pair has grown up together since they were both 9 (they’re the same age!).

“We ride very well together,” says Kendahl. “It’s crazy how fast she learns and how carefree she is about everything I do with her.

“I would definitely suggest Curly Horses for any rider, beginner or experienced,” adds Kendahl. “They are so fun to work with and ride. Just make sure you’re willing to brush them in the winter; they tend to get quite hairy!”

Nothing to Sneeze At

Many people who have had to stay away from horses because of allergies find that they don’t have issues around Curly Horses.

Sarah’s mom was so allergic to horses that by the time she drove Sarah home from riding lessons, she had to take some medicine and then rest. After discovering these horses, Sarah and her mom drove nine hours to meet Twiz.

Fortunately, Sarah reports, her mom had no reaction at all!

Now, Sarah says her mom doesn’t have to avoid horses with average hair. “Because of having Curlies for the last seven years, Mom has built up a tolerance to ‘regular’ horses,” says Sarah. “She may not be able to snuggle them like she can Twiz, but they don’t bother her just by being around them anymore.”

If you’d like to find out more about these breeds, visit these organizations:

International Curly Horse Organization
www.ichocurlyhorses.com

American Bashkir Curly Horse Registry
www.abcregistry.org

Curly Sporthorse International
www.curlysporthorse.org

This article originally appeared in the January/February 2017 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Paso Finos can walk, trot and canter like any other horse, but they also have an extra, very smooth gait that can be performed at three different speeds.

Fast or Slow

The classic fino is slow in forward movement, but the horse’s feet move really fast in short, quick steps.

The paso largo moves forward very fast but has a longer stride.
The paso corto is the medium speed, in between the fino and the largo. Speed and stride are both moderate.

At all three speeds, each foot hits the ground individually, which is why the gait is so smooth. Paso Finos can perform this gait naturally from birth without any training. There is no noticeable up-and-down movement of the horse or rider.

“Riding a Paso Fino is a dream; no posting,” says Sydney Elliot, 13, from Michigan. “I can sit and enjoy the ride as long as I keep my horse’s attention. They also have a one-of-a-kind personality with lots of spirit! Pasos never fail to make me smile, even on bad days. They have huge hearts and will give 150 percent in anything you ask them to do.”

Culture & History

Puerto Rico, along with Colombia, is one of the two places where the breed originated. American soldiers fell in love with the Paso Fino while stationed in Puerto Rico during World War II, and began importing horses into the U.S. in the mid-1940s. Later, Paso Finos were also imported from Colombia.

We have to go back several hundred years before that, however, to learn about the Paso Fino’s origin. When Spanish explorers arrived in the New World and settled in the areas of present-day Puerto Rico and Colombia, they brought their Andalusians, Spanish Barbs and Spanish Jennets (a now-extinct gaited horse) with them. These horses are the ancestors of the Paso Fino. The Spanish Jennet is the horse that passed on its smooth gait to the Paso Fino.

“I love the culture surrounding the Paso Fino breed,” says Ali Bedell, 18, from Missouri, who has been riding Paso Finos since she was 5. “Being involved with the breed has allowed me to go to places like Puerto Rico and witness so many new things and people.”

Paso Fino Skills

Besides being comfortable to ride, the Paso Fino has a lot of energy and stamina and a gentle disposition. In addition to breed shows, Paso Finos have found success in western classes like trail and versatility, pleasure driving, drill team competitions, parades and more.

Ali has been showing Paso Finos since she was 6 years old. Since then, she has been National Champion 16 times, Grand Champion eight times and High Point Youth Rider for the Paso Fino Horse Association for eight consecutive years. She was even third Reserve Champion in an international competition in 2012.

“Licenciada is one of my horses that I ride in competition,” says Ali. “She has the most playful, silly personality. She is also very smart and loves to do trails and patterns that challenge her and make her think. The other horse I show is Detalle. She has the sweetest, most gentle temperament.”

Ali competes in horsemanship, equitation, pleasure, performance and fino (showing off the breed’s gait) classes. But her favorite activities at home are trail riding and spending time pampering her horses.

Sydney is also a very accomplished rider, with 10 Grand National championships, four National High Point championships and 11 class High Point championships. She competes in pleasure, performance, equitation and horsemanship.

“Royal Oak Shiraz is my current show horse,” says Sydney, who also owns two other Paso Finos. “She has a show-horse personality. She gets the job done in the arena and is competitive. Shiraz and I have won six Grand National titles together.”

When she’s not showing, Sydney loves to just hang out at the barn and spend time with her horses. “They are my best friends,” she says. “I love to just sit on them bareback and talk to them; they always listen.”

Interested in getting to know the Paso Fino even better? Visit the Paso Fino Horse Association at www.pfha.org.

This article appeared in the September/October 2017 issue of Young Rider magazine.

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There are plenty of opportunities to find the pony that’s just right for you. Four of those choices fall under one breed: the Welsh Pony and Cob.

The Section A Welsh Mountain Pony, Section B Welsh Pony, Section C Welsh Pony of Cob Type, and Section D Welsh Cob offer the breed’s lovable pony character in four slightly different packages.

The countryside of Wales where Welsh Ponies and Cobs were first developed was rough, and didn’t provide easy pickings when it came to food. Over time, the ponies grew to be surefooted, hardy and versatile. That’s why they can be found in almost every discipline today: hunters, dressage, combined driving, English and western pleasure, heavy harness and more.

Section A: Welsh Mountain Pony

The Mountain Pony can be no taller than 12.2 hands, so it’s the perfect size for a youth rider or driver. He’s smart, friendly, strong and cute—a good fit for trail and pleasure, but especially talented in jumping and driving.

Section B: Welsh Pony

Bred to be a riding pony, the Section B Welsh might be the most popular of all four Welsh types.

Very similar to the Mountain Pony, the Section B Welsh is a little more elegant in build and can be taller—up to 14.2 hands. For these reasons, the Section B pony is most often seen in the show-ring.

With the versatility to do English, western, trail riding and anything in between, the Section B Welsh is one of the most popular sections in the U.S.

Section C: Welsh Pony of Cob Type

If you’re looking for a strong, sturdy mount but don’t want to go for a large horse, check out the Welsh Pony of Cob Type. He’s got a more substantial build than the first two sections. Plus, he can’t be taller than 13.2 hands, so he won’t be too big for most young equestrians. The Section C is often a good choice for dressage and driving.

Section D Welsh Cob

The Section D Welsh Cob is the larger cousin of the Section C. He can be taller than 13.2 hands.

Riding a Welsh Pony

Audrey Schulze, 13, of New Jersey, has had a lot of experience riding various Welsh Ponies. “I love how clever the ponies are and how the Section A’s are so tiny and cute,” she says. “They all have such big hearts, and even though they are small, they will do big jobs.”

Audrey has been successful in many different disciplines with her Welsh Ponies. She has placed nationally at Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America (WPCSA) shows and was the WPCSA Junior High Score Award two years in a row for youth 12 and under in 2014 and 2015.

“I do hunters, English pleasure, western pleasure, and show in-hand at the Welsh Pony shows,” says Audrey.

She owns a 9-year-old Section B Pony named Gayfields Talladega Knight (Tally). “He is super athletic, loves to jump really high, and takes his job very seriously,” she says. “I have never ridden a pony that loves to show and work more than he does.”

“At other shows, I do pony jumpers with Tally and beginner hunters with Benny. It’s funny how Tally can go from winning western pleasure to showing in jumpers. It proves how versatile Welsh Ponies are.”

Just for fun, Audrey enjoys doing hunter paces and cross-country schooling with her ponies. “It’s fun to ride them outside of the ring once in a while and see how fast they can go!” she says. “I also love taking the ponies on a trail that goes to a lake so they can play in the water.”

Audrey also owns two Half-Welsh Ponies, Big Ben (Benny) and Magical Masterpiece (Maggie). The Half-Welsh makes up an additional section in the Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America. Because Welsh Ponies and Cobs are known for passing on their best qualities, they’re often crossed with other breeds.

Audrey says it’s hard for her to choose a favorite quality about the Welsh Pony’s competitive skills. But that, along with their friendliness and ability to easily go from one discipline to another, makes Welsh Ponies and Cobs great options for kids who want to try it all!

This article about the welsh pony and cob originally appeared in the January/February 2017 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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“It was time to put my boots on, kick in a few ceilings and do what needed to be done.”

Tootie Bland, creator of Road to the Horse, has wanted to feature an all-
female lineup of competitors and an English trainer for several years, but it never felt like the right time—until now.

“The one thing I love about Road to the Horse is that when you think it can’t get any better, it does,” says Tootie. “What I have done from the beginning, and the only thing I know how to do, is follow my passion, listen to myself and never take no for an answer.”

Bland’s perseverance has paid off, as the ladies will be controlling the reins in 2017. Dubbed the Celebration of the Cowgirl, the 14th Road to the Horse welcomes Kate Neubert, Rachelle Valentine, returning challenger Sarah Winters Dawson, and Vicki Wilson, the event’s first competitor from New Zealand and first English trainer.

This year’s edition takes place March 23-26 at the Kentucky Horse Park’s Alltech Arena, located in Lexington, Ky. Stacy Westfall, 2006 Road to the Horse champion, is hosting.

Kate Neubert

Kate Neubert

Kate has trained and competed horses in cutting, reining and cow horse. She won the 2012 Pacific Coast Cutting Horse Association Intermediate Open Futurity, and made it to the semi-
finals with two horses at the 2014 National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) Futurity. She is approaching $200,000 in NCHA earnings.

“What an exciting, maybe once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” says Neubert of competing in Road to the Horse. “It fits the bill for the kind of challenge I have to take now and then; the kind that stretches you, makes you call on years of experience you’ve worked hard to gain, and gives you the type of experience you can only gain by saying yes and showing up.”

Kate strives to build a strong foundation in the young performance horses she starts at MC Cutting Horses in California. Learn more at mccuttinghorses.com.

Rachelle Valentine

Rachelle Valentine

Rachelle began her career in starting and training horses when she interned for Clinton Anderson after graduating from high school. Later she worked with Dean Locke, preparing young horses for reining competition. Today, she’s an associate trainer for Sean Patrick in Florida.

At Patrick’s operation, Rachelle rides reining and hunt-seat prospects, and assists with teaching clinics and lessons. She looks forward to using Road to the Horse as an opportunity to grow as a teacher and communicator.

“Being invited to compete in Road to the Horse is an incredible opportunity,” says Rachelle. “The 2017 lineup of competitors celebrates the cowgirl, and I am incredibly honored to be representing horsewomen in this exciting, one-of-a-kind event. I hope the young cowgirls in the audience will feel empowered to make great things happen for themselves in the horse world. Who knows, there might be a future Road to the Horse competitor in that audience!”

Learn more about Rachelle at seanpatricktraining.com, and follow her at
facebook.com/rachellevalentinespt.

Vicki Wilson

Vicki Wilson

International show jumper and clinician Vicki Wilson is one of New Zealand’s top horse trainers, particularly known for working with problem horses.

Vicki and her sisters, Kelly and Amanda, have earned celebrity status through their top-rated reality TV series, “Keeping up with the Kaimanawas.” The Kaimanawa is New Zealand’s wild horse, similar to the American Mustang or Australia’s Brumby. The Wilson sisters advocate for and have worked with all three types of wild horses.

Vicki is also known for her competitive edge and has won many national titles in show jumping and show hunters. At New Zealand’s prestigious multidiscipline Horse of the Year competition, she’s won the Lowry Medallion five times and the Nationwide Cup nine times, more than any other rider in history.

“Being the first English trainer [at Road to the Horse] is a privilege,” says Vicki. “At the end of the day, no matter the discipline, we are all working towards producing horses who love their work, and I’m excited to help demonstrate this.”

Learn more about Vicki Wilson at wilsonsisters.nz.

Sarah Winters Dawson

Sarah Winters Dawson

Sarah’s passion for training and competing horses shows in her list of major accomplishments, including two National Reined Cow Horse Association World Championships and Snaffle Bit Futurity Limited Open Championship in 2015.

“Going in to the Road to the Horse competition, my No. 1 goal is to give a solid representation in how you can set up a colt for success,” says Sarah. “I really believe that what a horse learns first, he learns best, and that foundation is so important for the rest of his life. I have a lot of faith in my program, and I look forward to sharing it on a large stage.”

Sarah and her husband, Chris, operate Dawson Performance Horses in Aubrey, Texas, where their main focus is training and showing reined cow horses. Sarah also has experience training and showing in three-day eventing.

The daughter of well-known clinician and Road to the Horse champion Richard Winters, Sarah also competed in Road to the Horse in 2013.

“Being in the first all-female Road to the Horse lineup is truly exciting,” says Sarah. “I respect each one of these ladies and their abilities as horsewomen. Even though we’ll be competing against one another, there is a sense of unity among us. Though I’ll be playing to win, I’ll also be cheering on my fellow competitors, and I think that feeling is mutual for all four of us.”

Learn more about Sarah Winters Dawson at dawsonperformancehorses.com.

More Than Entertainment

The Road to the Horse is co-creator Tootie Bland’s baby, one that has grown and improved with each year. Along with her husband, Steven, Tootie has a vision for producing an event that emphasizes the importance of establishing a relationship with a horse based on a foundation of trust.

“Each year is like raising a brilliant, unruly child, but in the end they are your shining star that never ceases to amaze you and far exceeds anything you could dream of,” says Tootie of running Road to the Horse.

A rancher, businesswoman, and producer, Tootie is a lifelong equestrian who has learned a lot from horses. In particular, the importance of establishing a strong bond between human and horse became abundantly clear when one of her American Quarter Horses went blind in his right eye following an accident. After learning to completely trust each other, they were able to continue competing successfully.

Tootie took what she learned from horses and her experience in the rodeo and film production industries to create an educational and entertaining event in 2003. It was called El Camino del Caballo, now known as Road to the Horse. Documentaries produced from this event have earned Silver Telly and AEGIS awards, and Tootie has been nominated for the Cowgirl Hall of Fame.

Each year seems bigger and better than the last, and 2017 will not be one to disappoint.

“This year in the Celebration of the Cowgirl, we will have the first all-women’s event and the first English competitor,” says Tootie. “For years, I have harped to deaf ears that horses only know one language: the language of trust, communication and understanding. It doesn’t matter whether you are English or western. We will build the bridges, kick in glass ceilings and light whatever fires are needed to unite our equine industry for the betterment of horses and the people that love them.”

Learn more at www.roadtothehorse.com.

KIM KLIMEK is a freelance writer based in Kentucky.

This article originally appeared in the March 2017 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Celebration of the Cowgirl at Road to the Horse appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Also Read: Time for Saddlebred Youth to Apply for Scholarships

You’ve finally filled out and sent in all of your college applications. What a relief! But, wait. Don’t sit back and relax yet. Now it’s time to work on your budget. Everyone knows that college isn’t the most affordable life experience.

Fortunately, there are ways to help offset the cost. Of course, you can take out loans, but those have to be paid back. Scholarships and grants, on the other hand, are like monetary gifts. Here’s a rundown of some of the resources you can use to get free money for college.

One of the first things you should do is fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will tell you what types of loans, grants and work-study funds you are eligible for. Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov to get the application.

Your state grant agency may also be able to provide financial assistance. Find the contact information for your state organization by visiting the U.S. Department of Education at www.ed.gov.

Many high schools offer scholarships, so be sure to review all of the ones at your school and apply for any that you qualify for. Your guidance counselor can help you out.

The college you decide to go to may offer financial aid through scholarships and grants as well. Speak to someone in the financial aid office for more information. If you know what you will major in already, talk to someone in that department. Sometimes you can get a scholarship geared specifically toward students in your field of study.

Just for Equestrians

Since you’re an equestrian, there are other avenues open to you in the form of breed and sport associations. Specifically, those that have youth organizations generally offer scholarships. Visit your breed and/or sport organization’s website to learn more.

Are you a member of the United States Pony Club (USPC)? They offer scholarships for college too. Some scholarships are awarded directly by the USPC. Schools that work with the USPC also offer money to students who are USPC members. Go to www.ponyclub.org for more information.

A Good Application

Centenary College in Hackettstown, N.J., offers several equine-related majors in addition to its other academic programs. Any student can apply for scholarships and grants. There are also departmental awards that are major-specific, including some for equestrian students.

“Centenary reviews all students who apply for scholarships based on their high school GPA and SAT/ACT scores,” says Evelynne Blatt, who oversees scholarships and financial aid for the college. “There is also a variety of grants that are available to students based on family income and size.”

Participating in sports, organizations such as Student Council, and outside activities like volunteer work can help you get scholarships too. “We look at what [students] are involved in at their high school, as well as outside of their school,” says Stefanie Taggart, admissions counselor at Centenary.

Lake Erie College in Ohio also hosts several equine majors, including equine entrepreneurship, facility management, teacher/trainer and therapeutic horsemanship. The school offers scholarships based on academic success in high school.

“Lake Erie College has a variety of scholarships that are equine-specific,” says Stephen Lazowski, vice president for enrollment management and financial aid at Lake Erie. “They are based on major, riding teams, and pre-vet interest.”

All About the Benjamins

The amount of money you can get from a scholarship or grant will vary widely. “Admissions scholarships range from $8,000 to 75 percent of tuition,” says Blatt. “Centenary grants are awarded up to $5,000.”

Depending on the scholarship or grant you are awarded, you may be able to use it for other costs besides tuition. “Grants and scholarships are to be used for educationally related expenses and are applied first toward tuition, fees, and room and board,” says Blatt. “Remaining funds can be used for books and supplies, as well as other living expenses, such as travel.”

These are just some of the ways you can get financial aid to help lower the expense of college. Your local library can help with the process, as well, or you can do an Internet search for “college scholarships.” It can take some time, but the more applications you fill out, the better your chances of earning money for college. Good luck!

This article originally appeared in the September/October 2015 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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