Solid foundations

Cobs may have the attitude for top-class sport, but does their conformation stop them reaching the heights, asks Andrea Oakes

- Andrea Oakes

COBS have an abundance of qualities, but tend not to be viewed as equine athletes. While they have ample strength and muscle, such a substantial frame more often brings to mind a prop forward than a principal dancer.

But are we right to rule them out as a serious dressage prospect? The sport is awash with warmbloods, especially at the higher levels, yet different breeds have been known to break through the ranks. Can cobs really succeed at prix st georges and beyond or are those that do an exception?

“I can’t think of a biomechanical reason that would stop someone taking a Welsh cob up to grand prix,” says international judge and trainer Stephen Clarke. “I’ve seen quite a few with a very good walk and trot and an ability to extend. Some don’t find it so easy to sit and be light in the canter, but it’s all a matter of training.”

Stephen recalls his training with Ernst Bachinger at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna, when he stabled his horse Ulysses at a Welsh cob stud nearby.

“The stud owner, Milos Welde, had also trained with the school and took several of his cob stallions up to grand prix level,” he says. “He trained them just like the Lipizzaners; they could do everything.

“Cobs were purpose-bred to carry heavy Welsh farmers, back in the day, so their strength and temperament does tend to be more suited to that role,” adds Stephen. “Most dressage riders would choose a naturally athletic horse. As a judge, however, my principle is always that a horse that fulfils the criteria of the movement gets the mark, which is the result of correct training.”