Thoroughbreds: horse breed, history, character, breeding

The thoroughbred is one of the most famous and fascinating horse breeds in the world. These elegant and powerful horses have a firm place in the history of equestrian sport, especially in gallop racing. But what is a thoroughbred, what are its characteristics and how has breeding developed? Let's immerse ourselves in the world of thoroughbred horses.

What is a thoroughbred?

The term "thoroughbred" not only describes the temperament or elegance of a horse, but also refers to a special breed of horse. Originally created by crossing Arabian thoroughbreds with native horses, the thoroughbred was bred specifically for racing.

Nowadays, a distinction is mainly made between thoroughbred Arabians (origin), English thoroughbreds and Anglo-Arabians (cross between thoroughbred Arabians and English thoroughbreds). These horses can be recognized by the designation behind their name:

• ox for purebred Arabians
• xx for English thoroughbred
• x for Anglo-Arabs

The term thoroughbred refers to horse breeds whose origins go back to the Arabian horses of the Bedouins. They were native to the deserts. As a result, they are considered robust, enduring and frugal. Dealing with high temperatures or temperature fluctuations is also no challenge for them.

The history of thoroughbreds

The thoroughbred has been around since the 7th century. In the late 17th century, these horses aroused the interest of racing enthusiasts in England. Stallions were imported to England from the Orient and crossed with local Galloway mares. Thoroughbreds are described as noble and pure. Their breeding line can be traced back to around 43 mares and three stallions, who are considered the founding fathers of the English Thoroughbred:

• Darley Arabian: Originally from the Middle East, it was brought to England by Thomas Darley in the 18th century. His offspring are characterized by speed and endurance.
• Byerley Turk: He was acquired in the late 17th century by Captain Robert Byerley during the war in Hungary. His descendants were also known for their racing abilities.
• Godolphin Arabian: He was born in Syria in the 18th century and later came to England in the possession of the Earl of Godolphin. His offspring were characterized by robustness and speed, and his influence can be found in many of today's thoroughbred pedigrees.

English thoroughbred

The English thoroughbred is the best known and most widespread galloping breed. These horses were bred specifically for gallop racing and are characterized by their speed and endurance.

Features:

• Stock size: 155 to 170 cm
• Weight: 450 to 550 kg
• Slim, muscular physique
• Deep chest and long legs

This breed has its roots in the crossing of Arabians with native English horses. Their temperament is often energetic and performance-oriented, which makes them ideal for racing.

Arabian thoroughbred

The Arabian thoroughbred is one of the oldest horse breeds in the world and has had a significant influence on the development of modern thoroughbreds. It is known for its elegance, intelligence and endurance.

Features:

• Stock size: 145 to 160 cm
• Weight: 400 to 500 kg
• Elegant head with concave profile
• High tail base

Arabian thoroughbreds are versatile and are used not only in racing but also in endurance riding. endurance ridingi and as show horses. They are considered to be strong-nerved and people-oriented.

Irish thoroughbred

The Irish Thoroughbred is less well known, but is a versatile breed that is used in racing as well as in other disciplines such as eventing. These horses combine speed with robustness and have a balanced character.

Features:

• Stock size: 155 to 168 cm
• Weight: 450 to 550 kg
• Stronger build compared to the English Thoroughbred

Irish thoroughbreds are known for their versatility and are often used in leisure and sport riding.

Characteristics and appearance of the thoroughbred

English Thoroughbreds are characterized above all by their slender, muscular build, which is specially designed for speed and endurance. With a height of around 155 to 170 cm and an average weight of 450 to 550 kg, the thoroughbred horse is one of the lighter horse breeds. The breed is characterized by fine, long legs, a deep chest and a noble head with large eyes.

The Arabian thoroughbred, which served as the basis for many thoroughbred breeds, is somewhat smaller and is often referred to as the "original thoroughbred". These horses impress with their elegance and robust character.

The character of thoroughbreds

The thoroughbred character is characterized by a high temperament and a pronounced will to perform. These horses are intelligent, sensitive and have a strong urge to move. Their quick perception and courage make them ideal race and sport horses. However, handling thoroughbreds requires experience and sensitivity, as they are sometimes considered to be overly energetic due to their temperament.

Thoroughbred breeding - From the past to today

Despite all their successes, their versatility and their unique character traits, interest in the thoroughbred - both in equestrian sport and in warmblood breeding - has continued to wane. To change this, the initiative "Into the future with thoroughbreds" was founded. With their event "Thoroughbreds - recognizing quality and using it for breeding and equestrian sport" they educate, inform and campaign for thoroughbred breeding. Further information can be found on the homepage . You can also take a look at our media library. 

➡️ Video tip: In this video you will find a great presentation of different thoroughbred horses and an interesting panel discussion

Thoroughbreds in equestrian sport

Due to both their exterior and their interior, thoroughbreds are of course particularly suitable for racing. The English thoroughbred in particular predominates here. However, the strengths of this breed can also be used for a career after racing or instead of the racetrack:

• Speed and agility: these characteristics also make thoroughbreds interesting for disciplines such as barrel racing, polo and cross country.
• Stamina and endurance: these horses are ideal for endurance riding. endurance riding.
• Intelligence and learning ability: They learn quickly and adapt to new tasks, which makes them perfect for eventing.
• Partnership and bond: Thoroughbreds often build a strong bond with their riders.

The importance of thoroughbreds in racing

Thoroughbred racehorses play a central role in horse racing. They are the heart of the sport, whether on short or long distances. The English thoroughbred in particular has revolutionized the racing world with its speed and endurance. Thoroughbreds are also highly regarded in Germany, where the German gallop has been a tradition for centuries.

Famous thoroughbreds

• Man o' War: A legendary racehorse from the USA that set numerous records in the 1920s.
• Secretariat: Winner of the 1973 Triple Crown and known for his incredible speed.
• Frankel: A modern racehorse from England who remained unbeaten in 14 races.
• Seabiscuit: an outsider who captured the hearts of Americans in the 1930s.

Frequently asked questions about thoroughbreds

What is a thoroughbred? 

A thoroughbred is a breed of horse that has been bred specifically for speed and endurance. There are various thoroughbred breeds, including the English, Arabian andIrish thoroughbred.

Is the English Thoroughbred a horse breed? 

Yes, the English Thoroughbred is one of the most famous racehorse breeds in the world.

What is an Irish Thoroughbred? 

The Irish Thoroughbred is a versatile and powerful horse breed that is used in both racing and eventing.

How much does a thoroughbred weigh? 

The weight of a thoroughbred is usually between 450 and 550 kilograms.

What role does the Arabian thoroughbred play in breeding? 

The Arabian thoroughbred is considered the basis of many modern racehorse breeds and has had a decisive influence on breeding.