What kinds of (ridden) sports can you compete in with a draft horse?

August 27th, 2007 | by drafthorse |
draft horse
GeanetSinistar™[♥ jstar] asked:


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  1. 4 Responses to “What kinds of (ridden) sports can you compete in with a draft horse?”

  2. By Lily L on Aug 29, 2007 | Reply

    dressage, hunter/jumper, eventing. it depends on the horse. i wouldnt do western in a draft just because they werent built and cant move like the western riders want them to. a lot of people have vauliting teams on draft horses. its up to you…what do you want to do? i am sure that u can find a draft that will do what you want to do. good luck and happy riding

  3. By Dressage Queen on Sep 1, 2007 | Reply

    Dressage, at least through training and first level. Some jumping, but bigger horses usually can’t be as sucessful because of their build. polo, i suppose…
    VAULTING! this horse seems totally bombproof and that’s a big part. if you decide to vault you should make sure his gaits are VERY VERY VERY VERY smooth! seriously, gaits, tempermant, and gaits make up a vaulting horse. We have a BIG black percheron who is the gentlest thing ever and has the smoothest gaits who we’re training to be a vaulting horse. If he can lunge thats a good sign. All you need is a surcingle and a bridle and you can go for it!

  4. By ap1188 on Sep 1, 2007 | Reply

    I have to disagree with those who suggest jumping for a draft breed. They don’t have the movement or conformation to excel in hunters, as they have a much higher knee action and stockier build than what is considered the ideal hunter. They lack the speed necessary for jumpers, as well, and most of them have absolutely terrible form over fences. This just wasn’t what they were designed to do.

    Drafts are fine on the trail, perhaps for lower level dressage (but again, you won’t see any at the higher end competitions). Basically, they’re of primary use as a pleasure mount. If you want to compete, you’re best looking at something with a little more athleticism.

  5. By edpcreations on Sep 1, 2007 | Reply

    well really anything at the lower levels………
    foxchasing, vaulting ; ), dressage, driving, there is no reason he can’t jump lower jumps. You just probably won’t very successful in speed events.

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