Conformation Clinic: Thoroughbred Mares
Basically, I look for overall balance first. A well-balanced horse will be able to perform athletically and will be a nice mover. I'll draw an imaginary line from the tail to the front of the hip, then right in front of the hip to the withers, and from the wither to the poll, and then I'll look to see how balanced those three pieces are.
I'll also look for a pretty head, and I'll check to see how the neck ties in--I want to see it tie in at a good angle with the shoulder.
I also want to see a nice topline and a big, round hip from adequate muscling.
From there, I'll check for breed and gender characteristics. I want a mare to look like a mare; she should be pretty and shouldn't look like a gelding.
I'll go on to look for any structural faults, checking to see if her legs look correct and properly aligned, and the hocks are well-angled and low-set.
Click "Next" to find out how I placed these three 3-year-old Thoroughbred mares.
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