The Welsh Pony
by Alice Hummell
The mist covering the crags and crannies of the
Although the actual origin of the Welsh pony has been lost
through the centuries, it is known that small, hardy horses were used by the
Romans in their conquest of this country. When the Romans withdrew sometime
around 410 A.D., many of these horses were left behind to exist on their own in
the harshness of the mountains in what is now
In the 19th and early 20th century, the addition of arabian, hackney and thoroughbred
blood improved the original ponies’ action and beauty. Their small size,
combined with all their other qualities, made this pony an excellent choice for
young children entering into the world of horsemanship.
The breed was divided into four categories, which are listed
in the Welsh Stud Book:
Section A - The Welsh Mountain Pony, with a height limit of
12.1 hands.
Section B - The Welsh Pony, with a height limit of 13.2
hands
Section C - The Welsh Pony of Cob type, also with a height
limit of 13.2 hands. These ponies sported the bloodlines of the Andalusian, the now-extinct Pembroke Cart Horse and Norfolk
Roadster. They are stockier in appearance and have more hair (commonly known as
feathers) on their heels.
Section D - The Welsh Cob, which is the largest, at a height
of 14.2 to 15.2 hands.
All of these ponies make excellent children’s mounts, having
a kind disposition combined with an adventurous spirit that blends well with
its young owner. Being of hardy nature with a strong conformation, they can
safely carry young riders whether they’re hacking for pleasure, taking part in Pony
Club activities or Western games, or competing in the hunter/jumper arena. They
also make superb driving animals. At any driving event, you are sure to see
many Welsh ponies proudly stepping out.
With their inborn Celtic “fire”, Welsh ponies can hold their
own with all other horse and pony breeds. There are even Welsh-only shows,
which feature classes for young riders under saddle and adult drivers, in
addition to conformation classes, where the ponies are judged on their body
structure.
Welsh ponies can come in any solid colour
– bay, chestnut, etc. – but greys are particularly
common. With their large, intelligent eyes, small alert ears and slightly
“dished” faces, they are one of the most endearing pony breeds. Although small in stature, their strength and loving nature have
made them a family favourite. Many of today’s
top equestrians got their start aboard a Welsh pony.
For more information about the
Welsh pony, contact:
(In
The Welsh Pony and Cob Society
of
(905) 944-0837
(In the
Welsh Pony & Cob Society of
(540) 667-6195