ridecamp@endurance.net: Choosing An Endurance Horse

Choosing An Endurance Horse

Bruce Overton (boverton@tpgi.com.au)
Fri, 16 May 1997 17:30:20 +1000

Note, I didnt use bloodlines in subject.
I have read with interest the great discussion on breeding or selecting a
horse for our sport. KISS is my motto in this regard so here we go:-
1 Choose a pure Arab
2 Choose a Gelding
3 Choose a Grey
4 Choose between 14.3 and 15.2 hands
Then make sure he is sound in all respects (have a vet and an experienced
rider examine him).
The arab has been bred for long distance for centuries and can be traced to
the desert without any foreign genes being introduced. Other breeds
ocassionally succeed in LD but it is the exception rather than the rule.
Certainly some breeders follow fashion trends but this does not breed out
the inherent potential for LD.

Do I need to explain why a gelding is preferable to mares and stallions??

A grey horse is able to handle heat better than other colours.

Too small and the horse will be left behind on the flat going and too tall
he will find it difficult on the hills.

Using the guidelines above gives you a better chance of getting
the right animal. It's still a gamble but follow the percentages.

Now you have a horse with a chance to make it, if you can condition him for
the job at hand, This part is probably just as difficult or moreso than
the selection.

The last and most important thing is " are you prepared to ride the horse
to his full potential?" I can go to a ride where say 70 horses are
starting and after a look at the field can tell you that the winner will be
out of 5 horses. There are 30 other horses there that are capable of
getting in the top 5 but the riders are not confident enough to get that
little extra.

Some riders want to be in the top 5 and others just like to complete and
this is part of our sport. If you want to be competitive follow the
pointers listed here and if you just like a more leisurely rode, any sound
horse conditioned properly will get you there.
Regards Bruce Overton
Bruce from Downunder
Queenslander
boverton@tpgi.com.au

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