Intro
the Autre Que Pur Sang or (AQPS) loosely translates to ‘other-than pure blood’ and is a classification used for race horses in France that are not of pure English Thoroughbred lineage.
Origins
Around the middle of the 19th century breeders in Brittany, Center and Anjou regions began breeding half-blood horses which excelled over cross country obstacles. By the early 20th century official races had been organized specifically for these half-bloods. This was a largely military endeavor, as spirited and brave animals where needed for cavalry. During this time the army’s demand for horses was big and breeders were busy.
War horses needed to be tough, so animals were raised in pastures alongside cattle, keeping them hardy and able to withstand the elements. Mare lineage was prized and select stallions from the state stud were brought in based on conformation and ability. This makes them pecular in the world of sport horse breeding, as the breed was developed without breeding their own males. Instead continuing to practice their original cross-breeding program.
Registry Requirements
The AQPS is an exclusive category of racing, horses must have 75% English Thoroughbred and less than 5% Arabian blood to participate. The rest of the bloodlines can be a mix of regional French saddle horses (like French Saddle Horse and Anglo-Arabian). These animals are run both on flat tracks and in steeplechase races.
This mix is not as swift as the English Thoroughbred, although they prove to be sturdier and to possess more endurance. They often excel in obstacle races and longer distances against an open field. This classification does not exist for hunter, jumpers or eventing, it is limited to the race track.
Features
Average height hands
Physique
There is no real morphological standard of the AQPS breed , however the model of the AQPS horse is a mix between: -That of the Selle Français: frame, bone, depth. -That of the Blood : a long sloping shoulder, tissue, joints and tendons dry and clean and obviously nerve impulses
Traditional Colors
All colors
Temperament
Spirited and intelligent
Use
Race horse
Steeplechase
Helpful Links
AQPS, Association des éleveurs et propriétaires de chevaux