Intro
Also called Polski Koń Sportowy, the Polish Sport Horse is bred for similar purposes as many of the other European sport horse or warmblood registries. Rather than breeding for pure bloodlines, they breed and resister based on temperament, athletic ability and performance.
Origins
Created to meet a growing need for athletic performance mounts in equestrian disciplines, including sled sports popular in the country. Breeding began in the post war period, the basis for the breed were crosses of mostly Wielkopolska and Małopolska mares with stallions associated the World Federation of Sports Horse Breeding (WBFSH). The studbook was established in 1977 and a handful of studs maintain selective breeding practices.
As different bloodlines are used and it can be a ‘breed’ of hybrids, their breeding goal is to achieve a type that allows them to continue without importing new blood. There are three different subdivisions within the Polish Sport Horse studbook.
Jumpers
Characterized by muscular hindquarters, large body type, clean legs, a strong back and average height increases to 16.1-17.2 hands.
Dressage
More concern with overall harmony of conformation, cooperative temperament and good movement.
Eventing
This is a medium sized but robust type, bred for bodily strength, courage and intelligence.
Features
Average height 15.7-16.7 hands
Physique
While there are a variety of conformation types found, some similarities bind them together
Head has a straight profile
Body is strong and harmoniously constructed
Traditional Colors
Solid colors
Temperament
Varies base on type, but sport horse registries don’t generally encourage registration of difficult or aggressive animals.
Use
Sport
Dressage
Jumping
Eventing
Helpful Links
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Helpful Links
Polish Genetic Biodiversity Programs