About Quarter Horses
Originally named for its unerring ability to outdistance other horse breeds in a race in a quarter mile or less, some American Quarter Horses have been clocked at speeds nearing or at 55 miles an hour. The American Quarter Horse currently enjoys status of possessing the largest breed registry in the world with over 4 million horses currently registered, and is currently the most popular horse within the United States.
Development of the Quarter Horse:
It is difficult to give the exact origin of the present day Quarter Horse, though many cite the original stock as being cultivated from the Chickasaw Native Americans.
It is more logical to assume, however, that the establishment of the breed took place quite a bit later than that of the early settlement of America as the breed was well in use among ranchers throughout the southwest.
Traditional and Modern Uses:
Most notably, the Quarter Horse was valued by the southwest cowhand, or cowboy, who found the breed to be quick to motivate, easy-to-handle and possessing a fair disposition. All traits considered requisite for a mount used in the collection and herding of cattle.
Today, the adaptability of the breed has expanded its use over to other occupations such as trail riding and mount use for many urban mounted police units. Their superior maneuverability has made them a favorite among barrel racing enthusiasts as well and had quickly made the cross over in rodeo competitions into timed calf roping.
Locate a Quarter Horse with Registered Bloodlines:
If you are looking to buy a bloodline registered American Quarter Horse, your best bet is to go through the American Quarter Horse Registry or via Foundation Horses that is home to the Hancock Horse Breeders Association, the Foundation Quarter Horse Breeders Association, the Foundation Horse Registry and the Foundation Stallion Barn.
The lines maintained by both the American Registry and the Foundation Horse Registry are maintained through some of the oldest prime stallion lines, and therefore a great start to finding the perfect horse for your needs.