The Hanoverian is a warmblood horse which is bred to excel in the equestrian disciplines of jumping, dressage, eventing, and driving. The Hanoverian horse originated with the establishment of the State Stud of Lower Saxony at Celle, Germany in 1735. Refining stallions, primarily Thoroughbreds, were crossed with domestic mares to improve the quality of horses for cavalry and farming. Through the years the Hanoverian breeding program has adapted to the need for a more athletic riding horses, introducing other breeds as appropriate. The result is the modern Hanoverian horse.
The goal of the Hanoverian breeding program is to product a noble horse with a cooperative temperament, elastic gaits, correct conformation, and outstanding ability in international equestrian disciplines. Stallions must pass an inspection for conformation, movement, and jumping ability to get a temporary breeding license. They then undergo at least 100 days of performance testing where their tractability, rideability, and jumping ability are evaluated. Those who receive a score of 90 or better earn a final breeding approval. Mare inspections take place at age 2 1/2 or older. They are evaluated for type, conformation and gaits. Mares are placed in the various sections of the Studbook based on both their overall scores and their dam’s Studbook placement. The very best mares can earn the title of Elite Mare upon successfully completing the Mare Performance Test. Only foals from AHS inspected and approved parents may b e register with the AHS. Foals with only one approved parent can receive a Certificate of Pedigree.
The success of Hanoverian horses in competition proves the soundness of this breeding program – 13 medals in the 1992 Olympics and four consecutive World Breeding Championships. When you choose your next champion, choose a Hanoverian.
For further information about membership, registration of horses, or a sales list contact: The American Hanoverian Society 4059 Iron Works Pike Lexington, KY 40511 606-255-4141 Fax:606-255-8467 E-mail: AHSoffice@aol.com
The information contained on this page is provided courtesy of the American Hanoverian Society
