Other than thoroughbred

Overall description of the breed

The Autre Que Pur Sang (AQPS) are a French horse breed created for steeplechase racing. Their name literally means "other than thoroughbred," indicating that they are not purebred thoroughbreds but are nonetheless excellent racehorses. This breed is particularly popular in France, their country of origin, where they are appreciated for their skills in show jumping and steeplechase racing.

The history of AQPS dates back to the 19th century, when French breeders began crossing English thoroughbreds with robust local horses, such as Anglo-Arabs and French Trotters. The goal was to create a horse that combined the speed and agility of thoroughbreds with the strength and endurance of local breeds. Over the decades, this selective breeding resulted in the development of a distinct breed, recognized for its exceptional abilities in competition.

The Autre Que Pur Sang are elegant and well-proportioned horses. They typically measure between 15.7 hands (63 inches) and 16.7 hands (67 inches) at the withers. Their head is well-formed, with a broad forehead and expressive eyes. They have a long, muscular neck, sloping shoulders, and strong, well-aligned limbs. Their back is straight, and their croup is powerful, allowing them to jump easily and gallop quickly. Their coat can be of various colors, but the most common are bay, gray, chestnut, and black.

In terms of health, AQPS are generally robust and resilient. They often benefit from hybrid vigor, a phenomenon where the crossbreeding of two different breeds produces healthier and more resilient offspring. However, like all horses, it is important to provide them with proper care, including a balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and a suitable living environment. They also need to be properly trained to avoid injuries, especially if they participate in demanding competitions.

The character of AQPS is one of their great strengths. These horses are intelligent, courageous, and hardworking. They are often described as easy to handle and having a good temperament. Their intelligence makes them receptive to training, and they learn new skills quickly. Their courage and willingness to work make them reliable partners, whether on the show jumping course or in other equestrian disciplines.

Training and educating AQPS should be done with care and method. These horses respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. They require regular and progressive training to develop their skills and physical condition. Their receptive nature makes them suitable for various types of work, but they excel particularly in racing and jumping disciplines. Trainers must also be careful not to overwork them, as even the most robust horses can get injured if they are overworked.

The measurements of AQPS vary, but they generally weigh between 1,100 and 1,320 pounds. Their average height at the withers is between 15.7 hands (63 inches) and 16.7 hands (67 inches). These dimensions make them strong enough for racing and jumping while remaining agile and fast. Their balanced build gives them a graceful and dynamic appearance, essential for performance in competition.

Since February 11, 2005, AQPS has become a fully recognized breed, registered in the French studbook and managed by the Haras Nationaux. This prestigious equestrian club manages the breed's studbook and ensures the promotion and preservation of the Autre Que Pur Sang's quality standards. These horses are officially recognized by French equestrian authorities and are also recognized by various international equestrian organizations, testifying to their importance and success in the world of racing and competition.

In conclusion, AQPS are versatile and high-performing horses, well-suited for steeplechase and racing competitions. Their rich history and careful development have made them a breed of choice for many riders and trainers. With their combination of speed, strength, and pleasant temperament, AQPS continue to shine in many equestrian disciplines, proving their value and excellence in competition.