THE FIRST AMERICAN “SPORT HORSE” BREED

The very name of the American Standardbred reflects the performance requirement established at the inception of the breed. Here’s how genetics, conformation and training came together to create horses that could trot a mile in 2:30 or less, or pace it in 2:00 flat.

- Deb Bennett, PhD

Rarely do those involved in events of major historical significance realize just how far-reaching their actions will turn out to be. When in 1867 the famous Morgan stallion Ethan Allen was matched against Dexter, the Hambletonian speed merchant, the contest captured the public imagination. On June 21st, more than 40,000 people turned out to see the two harness racers, both of whom had previously set world records, battle it out at the Fashion Course on Long Island, New York. The fans were boisterous, opinionated and ready to lay money on their favorite; more than a quarter of a million dollars in wagers reportedly changed hands that day.

The match was set for $2,000, best three out of five heats. Odds ran two to one in favor of Dexter, who, it was believed, had more “stick”--- the old word for stamina.