Welsh Breeds

Ponies have run wild on the Welsh hills for generations. Shepherds and farmers, who needed a fast mount that could cover the rough ground without mishap, used the larger ponies. Smaller ponies were used extensively in the coalmines in the 19^th and 20^th centuries. Welsh ponies are probably the most elegant and most numerous of our native breeds. They usually have very neat, dished heads that are held high, with a bold eye, giving them the appearance of a miniature Arab. They are spirited, intelligent and highly competitive, making them ideally suited as harness or riding ponies for older children or adults. The Welsh pony is divided into 2 sections, the Welsh Mountain pony, or Section A, and the Welsh Pony, or Section B.

The Welsh Mountain pony, or Section A, does not exceed 12h.h. In spite of numerous infusions of ‘foreign’ blood, it has retained all of the qualities necessary for survival. The Welsh Mountain pony is very successfully shown as a lead rein pony and makes an unbeatable gymkhana pony when under saddle. In harness, it is a fast, extremely smart pony and, more recently, has fitted the bill perfectly for scurry driving where speed, balance and agility are so essential.

The Welsh Pony or Section B is very similar to the Welsh Mountain with more emphasis on riding qualities. The Section B has been the foundation for the most successful show ponies. They carry themselves well with an air of pride. The Section B should not exceed 13.2h.h. Welsh ponies can be any colour other than piebald or skewbald. Extensive white markings are found and permitted although they sometimes breed sabino pied.

 Welsh cobs are immensely strong and will ‘go all day’ without tiring. They cover the ground with an extravagant trot and have a great ability to jump. These qualities make them ideal as crosses for hunters and jumpers, although they are very capable of doing either job themselves. The cobs are divided into 2 sections in the same way as the Welsh ponies. The smaller cob, or Section C, is up to 13.2h.h., while the impressive larger version has a lower limit exceeding 13.2.h.h with no upper limit. As with the ponies, any colour is allowed except piebald or skewbald.

Part-bred Welsh can also be registered.

 The Welsh Pony and Cob Society web site: http://www.wpcs.uk.com

Address:  6 Chalybeate Street, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, Wales SY23 1HS