

Thoroughbred stallion, IMP. ORMONDE, owned by W. O'B. Mac- 

 donough, Menlo Park, Cal. A Derby winner sired by Bend Or. 



DESCRIPTION OF THE THOROUGHBRED HORSE. 



T IS of much assistance in understanding the type of the thoroughbred to 



remember that they are the oldest of the breeds of horses and that they 

 have been bred for many years for a leading purpose and this has generally 

 been running speed. To secure this there had to be associated with the 

 mechanism that produces it, unusual quality of structure, stamina and am- 

 bition. The running record for a mile is held by Salvator, the time being 

 1.35% on a straight track. The common colors among the representatives of 

 this breed are brown, bay and chestnut. The distinguishing features are u 

 refined appearance, especially clearly defined lineaments, with length of neck, 

 deep chest, short upper line, Ions under line, somewhat straight croup, mus- 

 cular thighs, neat pasterns, dense bone, firm muscle and active temperament. 

 An inclination to ranginess in type is required, with a racy apearance, usu- 

 ally resulting in a horse standing 16 hands. Extreme breeding for the lead- 

 ing characteristics mentioned makes it necessary to discountenance in the 

 show ring light bodies and a general appearance which has given rise to 

 the term "weedy," which is also associated with lengthy pasterns and long 

 legs. Being highly sensitive in organization they frequently reflect an erratic 

 temperament. Their purpose being principally for racing, high quality with 

 endurance and spirit are cardinal qualities, and it is these same features 

 which have made them useful in the production of strong drivers and stylish 

 carriage and saddle horses. 



