The Irish Draught
The Irish Draught horse is often thought of as a heavy farm horse used for agricultural work and for pulling carts.
In the past farmers depended on such an animal to do such work and also carry him in the hunting field. Therefore they had to be strong, dependable, efficient, economical to keep and most importantly, stay sound for most of their working life.
Nowadays the breed is much sought after both here and abroad, for their many other qualities, including its good quiet even temperament, strength, stamina and eagerness to learn. The breed is renown as the best hunters in the world particularly when crossed with the thoroughbred. Its ability as a bold hunter crossing the most testing of countrysides also makes the breed very successful eventers and show jumpers.
Pure and part-bred alike can be seen in abundance in most every corner of the equestrian field and performs with excellence in all disciplines; eventing, cross-country, show jumping, dressage and driving, and in addition is well represented in the show ring. They are indeed a horse for all seasons.
The characteristics of the Irish Draught are easily recognisible, with an elegantly carried head and neck, big kind eye, powerful strong limbs and short shins. They have good strong feet able to withstand the rigors and strains of hunting and jumping. This is why they are so sought after for competitive work such as show jumping, eventing and of course hunting. Despite their size and build they are incredibly light on their feet.
When ridden the power of these draught horses is very evident. The hindquarters when engaged giving tremendous impulsion (the engine room) whilst the controls in the front remain very light. To feel this wonderful lightness and power you need to have a test drive! Incredibly The Irish Draught Purebred is now on the rare breeds register.
