WELSH 101
Welsh 101: An Introduction to Welsh Ponies, Cobs and Half Welsh
What is a Welsh?
The Welsh breed really is the breed for every season, for every reason! The breed is broken down into four sections; The Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A), The Welsh Pony (Section B), The Welsh Pony of Cob Type (Section C) and The Welsh Cob (Section D). A Half Welsh is any animal that has one parent that is a purebred Welsh Pony or Cob.
The Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A) is the smallest of the four sections, but the most important of the breed as it is the original native type. These hardy little ponies who lived for thousands of years in the mountains of Wales and escaped persecution by King Henry VIII in the 16th century are now one of the most ideal children’s ponies. Section As are also enjoyed by children and adults of all ages as a driving animal. Welsh Mountain Ponies cannot exceed the height of 12.2 hands.
The Welsh Pony (Section B) is described as having the same attributes as the Welsh Mountain Pony, but with emphasis on its qualities as a riding animal. They have a slightly lighter build than Section As due to the influence of Arabian and Thoroughbred blood. They are popular as children's mounts and often seen in hunter-jumper competitions. Welsh Section Ponies cannot exceed the height of 14.0 hands.
The Welsh Pony of Cob Type (Section C) is the result of crossing Welsh Mountain Ponies and Welsh Cobs to achieve a hardy animal that is heavier than the Welsh Mountain Pony but smaller than a Welsh Cob. They are ideal for both children and adults and have had success in driving and dressage rings. Section C Welsh cannot exceed the height of 13.2 hands.
The Welsh Cob (Section D) is the largest of the four sections and its height exceeds 13.2 hands with no upper limit. Welsh Cobs have been traced back to the medieval ages as an ideal mount for knights. Described as “the best ride and drive animal in the world”, Welsh Cobs are bold and powerful mounts that are popular as driven and ridden animals in many disciplines.
The Half Welsh/Part Welsh is a cross that must have at least one purebred Welsh parent. Crossing Welsh ponies is a very popular practice to add the wonderful Welsh characteristics of beauty, bone, courage and temperament to other breeds. There is no upper limit to the height of Half Welsh animals.
What do I need to show Welsh?
Tack
Stallions and colts over two years of age from all sections can be shown in a plain brown or black leather snaffle bridle, or an in-hand stallion bridle.
Mares and geldings can be shown in a plain brown or black leather snaffle bridle, an in-hand show bridle, or an in-hand leather slip. Section A, C and D mares and geldings can be shown in a white web halter.
Foals and yearlings can be shown in a leather halter or a in-hand slip. Section A, C and D foals and youngstock can be shown in a white web halter.
Where can I get Welsh tack?
You can find in-hand show bridles and slips at:
The Tack Shoppe of Collingwood
The Welsh Cob Shop
Just For Ponies
You can find white web halters at:
Hazell's Halters
The Welsh Cob Shop
Apparel
The number one thing to consider about your apparel when showing Welsh ponies, cobs and Half Welsh is safety. Choose shoes that you are able to run in. Paddock boots, running shoes, and cleats are a popular choice. Whatever you wear should not distract from your pony or cob. Keep things sensible, neat and safe. Many exhibitors wear pants that are the opposite colour of their animal's legs so the judge can clearly see them. Ladies can wear skits as long as they do not restrict movement. Dress shirts, vests and jackets are suitable tops. Riding outfits are also appropriate. Do not wear crop tops or halter tops. Wearing gloves can not only protect your hands but finish the look. Well fitting brimmed hats are also appropriate as long as they are not overly distracting and stay on your head while running. Long hair should be pulled back and away from your face.
Grooming
Welsh Ponies and Cobs are a native breed and therefore are presented as natural as possible. The long hairs of the ears should be neatly trimmed. There is no need to trim the inside of the ears. Long hairs of the jaw line should also be cleaned up. Manes and tails should be as natural as possible, however thick and long manes can be tidied up to be even in length and to show off the neckline. Half Welsh can have shorter manes and can be plaited. The top of the tail should lie flat. All Welsh ponies and cobs should have silky feathers. Half Welsh can be presented as hunter or sport pony and can be fully trimmed, including the feathers, along with a plaited mane and tail.
Resources
Books:
The History of The Welsh Pony - Tom Best
An Introduction To Welsh Ponies And Cobs – Wynne Davies
The Welsh Mountain Pony Wynne Davies
The Welsh Cob – Wynne Davies
Welsh Ponies And Cobs – Wynne Davies
Links:
The Welsh Pony and Cob Society
The Welsh Pony and Cob Society of Canada