HISTORY OF THE BREED
The New Forest Pony gets its name from the New Forest that lies along the English coast between Southampton and Bournemouth in southwest Hampshire. This region comprises one of the largest areas of unenclosed land in southern England and today is a popular recreational destination for the general public. The New Forest ponies still roam its heaths, woodland and bogs as they have for centuries. It is, however, unknown as to how or when these fine ponies passed into private ownership.
New Forest ponies combine the characteristics of the other native British ponies such as strength, intelligence and agility with a narrower build, tractable temperament and speed. It is a recognized breed of the mountain and moorland ponies of the British Isles. Not only was the breed influenced by native British stock but also the various infusions of blood from horses that crossed Britian during various periods of history.
Most New Forest ponies are good jumpers and are naturally good at gymkhana events and mounted games. They make excellent harness ponies. New Forest ponies have been successfully trained for dressage, polo, long-distance riding, cross-country events and carrying the disables. They have long been raced locally and are surprisingly fast, especially over rough terrain.
The New Forest Pony is considered an ideal mount for families seeking a horse appropriate for both children and adults and one that is skilled in adapting to the various skill levels of various riders.
New Forest Ponies range in size from 12 hh to 14.2 hh, and although there is no official lower limit, they seldom go below 12hh. The most prominent colors are bay, brown and gray followed by chestnuts, roans and blacks. Limited white markings are allowed on the head and legs. Blue-eyed creams, piebalds and skewbalds are not permitted.
The New Forester displays free, straight movement, plenty of bone, strong rear quarters, good depth of body and should be of riding type, with a good deal of substance. The head should be of "pony type;" the shoulders should be long and sloping; the quarters should be strong and well muscled; the body is deep; the legs are straight with strong joints and good hard hooves. The larger ponies, while narrow enough for children, are capable of carrying adults. The smaller ponies, although not up to so much weight, usually show more quality than the larger animals.
MY NEW FOREST PONY
Every horsey person has a favourite breed, without a doubt. My such favourite has to be New Forest Ponies. Their tough, robust bodies, intelligent faces, kind natures and willingness to please is only a brief reason why this is the case.
I initially had Sadie on loan after giving up riding Angel the Arab, and it was intended only as an *interim* ride for around six months. Well, the six months turned into about a year and a half, and I liked her so much that I ended up buying her, despite the obvious size problem. She was and still is the kindest pony I have ever known.
A lot of horses and ponies are bad tempered, but Sadie was completely the opposite, enjoying every minute of life to the full, never with time to grumble or complain.
Although not what I would class as an easy ride, she was a challenge and was always fun. If I ever have the chance to own another forester I'd jump at the chance without a doubt !
The following is a picture of me jumping Sadie cross country, followed by Louise riding her at a show near our home.
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