This message is from: PHILLIP Odden
This message is from Phillip Odden from Northwestern Wisconsin where
winter has us working to keep up but not pinned down.
Last week there was some discussion regarding different use types in
our breed. Some like the draftier fjords others like fjords with a
lighter build. Often people have already made up their minds about
what body type they like long ago. The fjord horse that first fjord
caught their eye is the type they tend to like. That is fine. Body
type is a good place to start when thinking use, or use type which is
another way of saying form and function.
So the fjord horse was bred to be a versatile breed. That is to say
some people use fjords as small draft horses, some use them as
carriage horses, some use them for trail riding or packing, and some
use them for ridden or driven dressage. Some people just look at them.
That is ok too. For these people looks is pretty important and that is
the function. In my opinion versatility means that each individual is
capable of doing draft, carriage driving, trail riding and packing as
well as ridden and driven dressage. At the annual stallion show in
Nordfjordeid Norway the stallions are tested and scored in several
disciplines. The NFHR evaluation program offers tests in
conformation, draft, driving and riding.
My dream was always to learn enough to be able to compete in Combined
Driving Events, CDE. When first I started to take lessons with my
fjord in horsemanship, driving and riding, I soon realized there were
those who didn't think the horse was well suited to compete against
other breeds in driving shows. I wondered why. At about the same time
the NFHR was offering classes to those who were interested in becoming
an Evaluator for our breed. They also allowed people to audit the
classes. At the first class in Cincinnati Wayne Hipsley introduced the
idea of form and function in horses. In the furniture and carving
world form and function is also important so I had already given it
some thought. Again during a Midwest Fjord Horse club winter meeting
in Galena Illinois several years ago Wayne presented information on
form and function. At each NFHR evaluation we are able to learn a
little more regarding form and function in fjord horses.
So just exactly what will learning about form and function do for you
as a fjord owner or prospective buyer. Well, if you want a fjord with
smooth gaits form matters. If you want a fjord that is less likely to
be spooky you want a fjord with well placed and large eyes. Form
matters. If you want a fjord that is durable and less likely to have
leg problems, form matters. And if you want a fjord that is a good
representation of the breed, that is to say a fjord that has good
breed type, then form matters.
The horses I have chosen to work with for pleasure driving, combined
driving, trail riding, and draft work are better able to do all these
things well because the form and function test.
Wayne will be speaking at the Friday seminar of the NFHR annual
meeting on this topic. Those attending will have the opportunity to
learn more.
Have fun with your horses. Phil Odden
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