French Trotter
Origin
France
History
Also known as the Norman Trotter, its origins are closely related to those of the old Norman horse. Breeding selection began in 1836 when the first trotting races took place in Cherbourg. The breed was developed from crosses of English Thoroughbred and mainly Norfolk Trotters from Great Britain Normandy mares. Some American Trotter blood was also used.
Trotters are numerically the most important in breeding stock in France. Breeding of this horse is concentrated in Lower Normandy and especially in the areas of Le Pin and Saint-Lô studs. It is also found more generally in the northwest of France, the Loire area, and the southwest.
The stud book for this breed was started in 1922. French Trotter mares registered in the stud book can benefit from “selection premiums” and “conformation premiums” given out at regional shows or an annual national show at Vincennes. These premiums permit a maintenance of conformation and selection of the breeding stock.
Sires of the breed are only allowed for public mating services for pure breeding if they obtain minimum references: having been in the first five of a classical, semiclassical, or international race, or holding a registered record on an officially confirmed track.
Description
- Head:
handsome usually with a straight profile - Conformation:
-prominent breast bone
-quite straight shoulder becoming more sloped to allow a broader movement of the forearm
-long, wide croup
-rather short hind quarters - Average height:
15.1 to 16.2 h.h. - Colours:
the most common are bay and chestnust - Temperament:
intelligent, quiet - Today:
the French Trotter is essentially destined for trotting races, whether driven or mounted. The races are very popular in France. To take part in a trotting race, all trotters must pass qualification tests by running the kilometer in a specified time. French Trotters are also used for breeding saddle horses. Some riders use French Trotters for leisure mounts.
