Mary Allen
Introduction
Polo is a sport that requires speed, agility, and strength from the horse. It is played on a field that measures approximately 300 yards by 160 yards, and players hit a small ball with long-handled mallets to score goals. A successful polo horse must be able to change direction quickly, stop and start on a dime, and have the stamina to play for several chukkers. Many breeds of horses have been used for polo over the years, but the French Trotter is a lesser-known breed that has been gaining popularity for this sport.
What are French Trotter horses?
The French Trotter is a breed of horse that was developed in France in the 19th century for harness racing. They are known for their speed and endurance and are often used in long-distance races. French Trotters are a cross between Thoroughbreds and Normandy draft horses, which gives them a unique combination of speed and strength. They are typically between 14 and 16 hands high and come in a variety of colors, including bay, chestnut, and black.
Characteristics of French Trotters
French Trotters are known for their athleticism, endurance, and speed. They have a smooth, efficient gait that allows them to cover long distances quickly. They are also known for their intelligence and willingness to work with their handlers. French Trotters are often used in harness racing, but they can also be trained for other disciplines, such as jumping and dressage.
What is polo?
Polo is a team sport that originated in Persia over 2000 years ago. It was introduced to the Western world in the 19th century and has since become a popular pastime for the wealthy. Polo is played on horseback, with two teams of four players each. The game is divided into periods called chukkers, and each chukker lasts seven and a half minutes. The objective is to hit a small ball through the opposing team’s goalposts using a long-handled mallet.
The ideal polo horse
The ideal polo horse is one that is fast, agile, and has good endurance. It should be able to turn quickly and stop and start on a dime. Polo horses should also be calm and well-behaved, as they will be playing in close proximity to other horses and riders. The best polo horses are often Thoroughbreds or Quarter Horses, but other breeds can also be successful.
Can French Trotters be trained for polo?
Yes, French Trotters can be trained for polo. While they are not a traditional breed for this sport, their athleticism and endurance make them well-suited for it. French Trotters may require more training than other breeds, as they are not as naturally inclined to the sport. However, with proper training and conditioning, they can be successful polo horses.
Advantages of using French Trotters for polo
One advantage of using French Trotters for polo is their endurance. They are often used in long-distance racing, which means they have the stamina to play for several chukkers. Additionally, French Trotters are known for their intelligence and willingness to work with their handlers. This can make them easier to train and more responsive on the field.
Challenges in using French Trotters for polo
One challenge in using French Trotters for polo is their lack of natural inclination to the sport. Unlike Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses, French Trotters are not bred specifically for polo. This means they may require more training and conditioning to become successful polo horses. Additionally, French Trotters may not be as well-suited for certain aspects of the sport, such as sudden stops and turns.
How to train French Trotters for polo
To train a French Trotter for polo, it is important to start with basic riding and handling skills. This includes ground work, desensitization, and basic riding exercises. Once the horse is comfortable with these skills, it can begin training specifically for polo. This may include introducing the horse to the ball and mallet, working on stops and turns, and practicing polo-specific maneuvers.
French Trotters in polo: success stories
While French Trotters are not as commonly used for polo as other breeds, there have been some success stories. In 2015, a French Trotter named Tango was named the best polo horse in Argentina. Tango was originally bred for harness racing, but was trained for polo and went on to win several tournaments.
Conclusion: French Trotters and polo
French Trotters may not be the first breed that comes to mind for polo, but they have the potential to be successful in this sport. With their athleticism, endurance, and willingness to work with their handlers, French Trotters can be trained to play polo at a high level. While they may require more training and conditioning than other breeds, their unique combination of speed and strength make them a valuable addition to any polo team.
Resources for further information
- United States Polo Association: https://www.uspolo.org/
- French Trotter Breeders Association: http://www.selle-francais.fr/en/the-french-trotter/
- Tango the French Trotter: https://www.horsetalk.co.nz/2015/12/03/tango-french-trotter-best-polo-horse-argentina/