HISTORY OF THE THOROUGHBRED

The Thoroughbred is one of the most beautiful and fleetest animals in the world , and represents to a large degree all that is best in the Equine Race.

All Thoroughbreds trace their ancestry to three Arab Sires imported into England , namely the Byerley Turk 1689 , Darley Arabian 1705, and Godolphin 1728

The name , “Thoroughbred”, is a direct translation of the Arabic word Kehilan.

It is probable that the dams were eastern mares called the Royal Mares , most likely Arabians , but as time advanced home bred stallions were mated with home bred mares who had a predominance of Arab blood originally , and this produced what is now the Thoroughbred horse .

Rally (First Relief) TB Ex Racehorse – Grand Prix de Standard Piaffe in long reins

A very beautiful horse and described as the highest class of light horse imaginable , in conformation and general appearance .
The Irish Thoroughbred has won many major races throughout the world and is in great demand for breeding . Many prominent overseas breeders are associated with studs in Ireland . We here pay tribute to two present – day heroes , our own Moscow Flyer now enjoying an active retirement and our latest, Sea the Stars

When crossed with other breeds , they produce horses of great quality, for instance our Irish Draught which make excellent hunters. Though originally synonymous with racing both Flat and National Hunt , the thoroughbred excels in all equine sports to-day, jumping , eventing, point to point , polo and dressage.

Kizzy TB Mare -Grandsire famous Racehorse Ben Hawk Ridden by B Kenny, Performing Spanish Walk

In the latter years of the 1960’s Duras Eile a black gelding owned and ridden by the late Major Eddie Boylan put Ireland on the world map for his many memorable performances in eventing throughout Europe. Coached by Einer Schmit- Jensen to Grand Prix standard in dressage , he scored 84% of the dressage marks contributing to their European Championship win at Badminton , a performance that may still be a record. After their last brilliant victory for Ireland at Punchestown, Duras Eile was sold for an astronomic sum to a new owner in Canada. Incidentally Duras Eile was sired by Artist’s Son who also sired Quare Times a Grand National Winner.

When schooled gymnastically for Dressage with their Beauty and Elegance their performance becomes Horse Ballet , The Art of Arts .

They also make an excellent Hack and Riding horse as was demonstrated in 2009 thanks to the RDS when they introduced the , “ Race Horse to Riding Horse Class “ .This Class was well supported and attracted a very large number of spectators. It is to be hoped it will continue in the future .

The Thoroughbred is indeed very versatile, quick to learn what is asked of him or her and happy to perform, making a wonderful Riding Horse for pleasure or competition.