Welara
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Country of origin | Originally bred in England, registered in United States |
|---|---|
| Traits | |
| Distinguishing features | Refined but hardy pony breed |
| Breed standards | |
The Welara is a part-Arabian pony breed developed from the Arabian horse and the Welsh pony. It was originally bred in England by Lady Wentworth at the Crabbet Arabian Stud in the early 1900s from imported Arabian stallions and Welsh pony mares. Breeding then spread throughout North America. In 1981, a breed registry was formed in the United States, and a studbook began to be published. They are used for many disciplines of English riding, and are known for their refinement, hardiness and spirit.
Welara stallions average 14 to 15 hands (56 to 60 inches, 142 to 152 cm) and mares 13.1 to 14.3 hands (53 to 59 inches, 135 to 150 cm). To be registered, Welaras must stand between 11.2 and 15 hands (46 and 60 inches, 117 and 152 cm) high. Crosses between Arabians and each of the four sections of Welsh Pony (A, B, C and D) tend to produce slightly different types of pony. Section A Welsh Pony crosses (the smallest) tend to be under 13 hands (52 inches, 132 cm), and be used mainly as light driving ponies and mounts for small children. Section B crosses usually stand 13 to 13.2 hands (52 to 54 inches, 132 to 137 cm) and can be used for driving and as riding ponies for larger children and small adults. Section C crosses average 13.2 to 14.2 hands (54 to 58 inches, 137 to 147 cm) hands and tend to be a heavier pony, sometimes with feathered feet, although still showing the refinement of their Arabian ancestors. Section D crosses generally stand 13.3 to 15 hands (55 to 60 inches, 140 to 152 cm) high. The latter two types are suited to riding by average and slightly larger adults and for the majority of disciplines.[1]
All colors other than Appaloosa are allowed for registration. Welara Sport Ponies may be of any color or size, without the restrictions of the purebred Welara.[2] The mix of Arabian and Welsh blood gives the breed refinement, spirit and hardiness, as well as good movement. The head is small and slightly concave, the neck is arched (and prone to be cresty in stallions). The shoulders and croup are long and the back short. Welaras are used mainly in English riding, especially in hunter classes. They are also seen in show jumping, three-day eventing, pleasure driving and as general leisure riding horses. Welara/Thoroughbred crosses are popular mounts for riders competing in hunter and jumper classes.[3]
