Conformation Evaluation.
Conformation - Conformation refers to how the horse is built, or the
structural makeup of the horse. Conformation affects how the horse will perform. For each particular purpose or function of horses, there is a particular form that will enhance that function.
Pedigree is often referred to as the blueprint that builds the house. But the house will not stand up if the structure is not properly built. This is very true for the racehorse. The horse is an athlete. We must evaluate the structures which contribute to the horse’s ability to perform and remain sound.
Conformation is inherited (Good or Bad) from the sire and dam. Often times one parent can overcome the faults of the other to some degree but starting out with the best possible quality to help blend the skeletal structure and symmetry of muscle is important.
Having judged equine conformation competitively for years with F.F.A. as well as showing my own string of horses in halter and under saddle has allowed me to develop a good eye for a quality animal. I have selected horses that have won numerous championships and others who have gone on to win at many different tracks. It has also given me the knowledge to help recommend suitable matings for stock that may lack in certain areas. Also working at the racetrack was the best possible way to learn what faults trainer can and cannot work with when training particular animals. Proper training early on helps the horse to fully develop and succeed at the conditions they were bred for. Working at the sales and seeing hundred of Thoroughbreds each year also has helped sharpen the eye to be keen on what faults particular lines of stock have a tendency to reproduce. I bring this knowledge to the table and discuss it with my clients to help them make informed decisions about their breeding stock.
Personal conformation evaluations are recommended before breeding to help find suitable stallions. I offer photos and written evaluations of stallions I have seen in person as well as recommendations of what type of mares they would best be suited with based on pedigree, performance and conformation.
structural makeup of the horse. Conformation affects how the horse will perform. For each particular purpose or function of horses, there is a particular form that will enhance that function.
Pedigree is often referred to as the blueprint that builds the house. But the house will not stand up if the structure is not properly built. This is very true for the racehorse. The horse is an athlete. We must evaluate the structures which contribute to the horse’s ability to perform and remain sound.
Conformation is inherited (Good or Bad) from the sire and dam. Often times one parent can overcome the faults of the other to some degree but starting out with the best possible quality to help blend the skeletal structure and symmetry of muscle is important.
Having judged equine conformation competitively for years with F.F.A. as well as showing my own string of horses in halter and under saddle has allowed me to develop a good eye for a quality animal. I have selected horses that have won numerous championships and others who have gone on to win at many different tracks. It has also given me the knowledge to help recommend suitable matings for stock that may lack in certain areas. Also working at the racetrack was the best possible way to learn what faults trainer can and cannot work with when training particular animals. Proper training early on helps the horse to fully develop and succeed at the conditions they were bred for. Working at the sales and seeing hundred of Thoroughbreds each year also has helped sharpen the eye to be keen on what faults particular lines of stock have a tendency to reproduce. I bring this knowledge to the table and discuss it with my clients to help them make informed decisions about their breeding stock.
Personal conformation evaluations are recommended before breeding to help find suitable stallions. I offer photos and written evaluations of stallions I have seen in person as well as recommendations of what type of mares they would best be suited with based on pedigree, performance and conformation.