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T lt
and Flying Pace Riding the Wind
Throughout the centuries, the Icelandic horse continued to be of central
importance to life in Iceland. As there were few roads in Iceland even into
the first part of the 20th Century, travel was by horseback not by carriage.
Thus developed the perfect riding horse and the exquisite gaits of the
Icelandic the airlike ride of the t lt and the breathtaking speed of the flying pace.
The size of the Icelandic horse has also remained as it was in Viking times.
European horses were bred larger and larger to accommodate the heavy armor of
war and to pull large wagons and carriages. There was no need to develop a
larger horse in Iceland then or now. Most Icelandics stand between 13 and 14 hands. Though
he is not tall, the Icelandic horse is compact and strong and easily capable of
carrying full sized adults over rugged terrain for long distances.
Character and Temperament
From racy show horse to steady family horse all Icelandics
imported from Iceland have been tempered by the Icelandic tradition that allows
the horse to grow as nature intended and to learn the rules of its own society by
running with its herd. For four full years, he spends his summers free in the
Icelandic highlands. These years impart a self-assuredness that makes these
horses curious, friendly, sure-footed, and even-tempered.
Germany s best-kept secret
Thirty years ago Germany breeding capital of the European
Warmblood began its love affair with the Icelandic horse. Where the choice of
spectacular horses for all sports is the widest in the world, The Icelandic
horse is so popular that Germany now boasts an Icelandic population second only
to that of Iceland itself. Germany is where I began my own acquaintance with
the Icelandic magic. While I soon turned my attention to dressage and breeding
and riding the Hannoverian horse, I kept for 25 years fond memories of the
Icelandic horse. Now at 55, I ve gone full circle.
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