American Standardbred
Intro
This breed actually earns its name, trotters and pacers are required to meet speed requirements prior to registration with the breed. Their name actually comes from the qualifying standard time these animals must pass to qualify for registration (a mile in under 3 minutes).
Origins
This breed was originated by a single English Thoroughbred stallion named Messenger who was brought to America in 1788 and bred to local animals. Every Standardbred can trace their existence to the grandson of this foundation stud. However their bloodlines run across the board, a variety of different (mostly gaited) breeds were introduced in the hopes of creating faster and faster gaited animals.
The official stud book for this breed was formed in 1939.
Two Types
Trotters
Diagonal gait – Legs on opposite sides move at the same time. This is a natural gait, however it is harder to keep a trotter on their stride at high speeds.
Pacers
Lateral gait – legs on the same side move at the same time. Approximately 80% of harness racers use this gait. The lateral pacing gait is ideal for harness racing.
Features
Average height 15.2 – 16 hands
Resembles a heavy Thoroughbred in confirmation
Physique
Head is large and may have convex profile
Neck is medium length
Shoulders are powerful
Hindquarters are muscular and strong
legs are solid and refined
Traditional Colors
Any solid color
Temperament
Calm and bold
Intelligent
Unflappable
Use
Racing
Show horse
Pleasure horse
Buggy horse
Sport horses
Ranch horse
Helpful Links
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US Trotting
Standard Bred
Harness Tracks
Where to Buy
American Standardbred Adoption Program