• The Quarter Horse is the first all-American breed

• It is claimed to be the most popular horse in the world - over 3 millions are registered with the American Quarter Horse Association

• It's such a popular breed, that it's exported worldwide with a further 800,000 plus registered in 70 countries. The Quarter Horse is now bred in Canada, South American, Australia, England and South Africa

• Its foundation was English horses brought to Virginia in the early 15th century, and Spanish stock, borught to America in the 14th century

• It was used for every type of work: farming, hauling, in harness and under saddle

• The English settlers raced them over stretches of about a quarter of a mile, hence the name

• The Quarter Horse is still the fastest horse in the world over the quarter mile with the current record being around 20 seconds

• It is an extremely strong horse, with powerful shoulder and hind quarters

• The horse has a short, wide head with small muzzle and shallow, firm mouth. The neck is muscular

• An intelligent, versatile and playful horse

• A kind horse that likes a challenge, although can be stubborn

• All solid colours appear on the horse, which is mostly chestnut

• The quarter horse stands at between 15 and 16 hands high

• Popular Uses: Western, pleasure, trail, reining, cutting, rodeo, ranch-work, packing, endurance, racing, working classes, jumping, hunting and polo mount