There is nothing more charming than seeing a country road with a small cart being pulled by driving ponies. Traditionally, when considering this form of transport, we tend to imagine the horse and cart rather than the use of ponies. In doing so we forget just how tough and strong ponies really are.
A pony is different to a horse not just in size but in conformation and temperament. Usually to be classified as a pony the animal must stand below 14.2 hands in height (58 inches or 147 cm). Because of their size they tend to be thought of as suitable riding horses for children. Ponies tend to have thicker necks than horses, broader chests and shorter legs. There are hundreds of breeds from the most popular Welsh Mountain ponies right through to the rarer Eriskay ponies of the Hebridean Islands of Scotland.
Ponies are very athletic and capable. What these smaller horses lack in stature they more than make up for in scope and strength. For example, in the 1968 Olympics a 14.1 pony called Stroller was part of the silver-medal winning British show-jumping team. However, because of their conformation with their strong, sturdy legs and broad chests, ponies make ideal driving animals.
Ponies were originally domesticated for agricultural work. They were considered just as vital as their larger draft cousins right across Northern Europe. As the years went on the introduction of the Arab horse influenced a number of pony and horse breeds making them more suitable for riding purposes. This included Welsh Ponies and Cobs who have long held the top of the popularity stakes for equestrians in the UK and make ideal driving ponies. Throughout its long history dating back to 1600 BC this brave pony has been used from everything from a cavalry horse through to a pit pony.
Amongst all the horse drawn vehicles, pony traps are one of the most affordable and enjoyable ways to travel. These are light, sporty two-seater vehicles with two wheels. They are usually pulled by just one pony. There are larger two-seater traps in which two passengers sit in the main body of the carriage with the driver up front. These carriages are very popular for weddings and are a delight when pulled by a pair of driving ponies. Ponies particularly suit weddings as they look very pretty when their bridles and tack are covered and decorated with matching ribbons and flowers.
Additionally, driving ponies are the perfect introduction to carriage driving lessons. Indeed, in most instances for the intrepid carriage driver the first lesson will involve driving ponies rather than horses since ponies tend to be more responsive than horses. If you have never considered driving ponies before today please explore this wonderful world because these delightful smaller cousins of horses have so much character and charm they are sure to win your heart and admiration.