Conference noted::equitation

114.0. "Highland Ponies" by CHEFS::GOUGH () Thu Sep 17 1987 15:16

    I have just discovered this notes file, and am finding it fascinating
    reading.
    
    I own a Highland pony.  Do you have this breed in the U.S.?  
    
    Highlands come from Scotland.  They stand about 13 to 14.2 hh, and
    are strong, stocky, ponies, easily able to carry an adult.  In colour,
    they are most often grey or any shade of dun, with generally with
    a dorsal stripe, and can also be bay or chestnut.  They do not have
    any white markings.  They have long manes and tails, and in winter
    grow very thick coats.  They are hardy, and live out all the year
    round.
    
    Originally, they were used to work on crofts (smallholdings), and
    to carry deer down from the hills.  Now, they are used for pony
    trekking in Scotland, and as general riding ponies.  They can also
    be driven.
    
    Robbie is 14.2 hh, and chocolate dun.  He is very good natured,
    and a pleasant, safe ride.  He can also jump quite well over solid
    jumps - logs and so on - but he can't see the point of jumping anything
    that he can go round or through!
    
    Robbie's main interest in life is food.  He appears to get fat on
    fresh air, and has a definite weight problem!
    
    I would love to know whether any of you have Highlands, or if they
    exist in America.  I know you do have some of the British ponies,
    as I've seen Welsh and Connemaras in particular mentioned.
    
    Look forward to reading your replies.
    
    Helen.
          

    I have never knowlingly seen a Highland except for in pictures but
    I can remember that when I was a kid, I wanted one because all of
    the horse books used to say that they were as you described them
    and also good with kids!
    
    Linda

    
    
    Hello Folks,
    
    I have just been to the Royal Highland Show here in Scotland and they
    have some of the biggest Highland Show Classes.   I had a word with a
    few of the breeders and they have shipped foals and stallions to the
    States.
    
    Highlands have great natures but like all native ponies you can get the
    odd cheeky one.
    
    My daughter currently had a cross-bred Welsh/British Riding Pony. 
    Wonderful nature, quick learner and great with kids, dogs and goats.
    
    The native ponies are the best !!
    
    Sandra from Scotland