Irish Draughts in Dressage

Dressage is without doubt the fastest growing sport in equestrianism today. Historically, first thoughts would not have considered the Irish Draught and Irish Draught part bred as obvious choices for Dressage. Possibly this is partly due to the fact that in Ireland their big love is Show Jumping and IDs were never produced for Dressage in the way the continentals have produced the Warmblood. More and more, however, things are changing and Irish Draught horses are showing that they have the attributes to prove themselves in the Dressage Arena. They excel with their power, soundness and exceptional trainability. They are suited very much to the amateur rider due to their exceptional temperaments, whilst at the same time they are able to produce the goods in the hands of professionals. Contrary to what the name ‘draught’ implies, they also do move very well and they are extremely well balanced and light on their feet. The qualities of athleticism, balance and ability to ‘think’, that made them exceptional for Cross-country and Show Jumping, are now proving themselves in Dressage.

When one considers the years that the Warmblood has been bred and produced at a professional level, it is little wonder that they are in the forefront of Dressage. But when one considers the numbers of horses bred and produced by professionals on the continent in comparison to Ireland and the UK, it makes one aware that the true potential of the Irish Draught and its crosses is as yet virtually untapped.

The Irish Draught is renowned as the foundation of sport horses and with selective breeding and good training they are able to compete with the best.

IRISH DRAUGHTS IN DRESSAGE AWARDS - here

Irish Draughts in Dressage - here

Last Updated Wednesday, September 26 2007 @ 06:18 PM BST; 1,021 Hits