The term 'Thoroughbred' describes a breed of horse that dates back to the turn of the 17th century. The horse is one which can carry weight with sustained speed over extended distances, qualities which make it perfect for the sport of horse racing. Selective breeding with meticulously kept records, for more than 250 years, has resulted in the Thoroughbred we know today. The Jockey Club of America keeps track of the breed, which numbers almost two million. It also records the results of Thoroughbred races held around the world. In addition, the Club maintains an extensive blood-typing program ... today every Thoroughbred foal registered in The American Stud Book, and its sire and dam, is blood-typed to insure parentage verification. What began as a pastime for the wealthy has now become a worldwide multi-million dollar industry; Thoroughbred racing generates nearly $500 million in government revenue each year. The racing industry's contribution to the economy of New York State alone has been placed at $1.8 billion each year. All of this depends on the tested and documented successes of the Thoroughbred Horse. A Thoroughbred's slender legs must carry its more than 1,000 pounds of body weight over a long distance, travelling at speeds of 35-40 miles per hour, and must be able to respond to changes of pace or direction while moving at top speed. The Thoroughbred can be recognized by its sleek, muscular body, supporting a long neck and a head with a flat forehead and wide-set intelligent eyes. The power of a Thoroughbred comes from its hindquarters, which are strongly muscled. |