Thoroughbreds

The thoroughbred is a horse breed best known for flat racing. It was developed in England during the 17th and 18th centuries by crossing native stock with imported Arabian, Barb, and Turk bloodlines. Foundational sires such as the Darley Arabian, the Godolphin Arabian, and the Byerly Turk were instrumental in shaping a horse with speed, stamina, and athletic versatility. The name reflects the aim of producing a thoroughly bred, high-performance animal.

Characteristics: Thoroughbreds are typically tall and lean, standing about 15.2 to 17 hands high. They have refined heads, long necks, deep chests, and strong hindquarters. Coat colors are usually bay, chestnut, or gray, with black also seen. They are considered hot-blooded: intelligent, sensitive, and quick to react, requiring skilled handling and consistent exercise. While racing is their core use, they are also seen in show jumping, eventing, dressage, and general riding.

Breeding and recognition: Thoroughbreds are registered in national stud books. In the United States and Canada, the Jockey Club maintains the American Stud Book; in Britain, the General Stud Book is kept by Weatherbys in association with the Thoroughbred breeders. Breeding programs emphasize pedigree and performance, with linebreeding to foundation stallions to preserve desirable traits.

Use and impact: The breed dominates flat horse racing worldwide and has contributed widely to other breeds and disciplines through elite sires and dams. Notable Thoroughbreds include Secretariat, Man o’ War, Seabiscuit, and Nijinsky, among others.