Most famous horse breeders: from blood impresarios to breed architects The history of horse breeding is the history of outstanding individuals whose foresight, passion, and often phenomenal intuition have not only shaped individual breeds but entire directions in horse breeding. Their fame is not based on the number of horses but on the quality of genetic heritage they have left, creating lines and types that define the face of modern sport and horse racing. These are the "architects" of the horse as we know it. 1. Robert Darley (England, XVIII century) and the "three pillars" of the thoroughbred breed. Although he was not a breeder in the classical sense, his name is inextricably linked with the foundation of the entire thoroughbred breed. The three foundation stallions imported into England at the beginning of the XVIII century were bought or rented by his nephew: Goddolphin Arabian (Goddolphin Barb) Bayerly Turk Darley Arabian (belonged directly to Robert Darley) It was Darley Arabian that had the greatest influence. His grandson was the legendary Eclipse (1764), undefeated at the races, whose genes are present in 95% of modern thoroughbreds today. Through the figure of Darley and his perceptive choice, we see the origins of the entire horse racing industry. 2. Carl Russell (England, XIX century) and the "Tadder" line in shires. While many people created the thoroughbred breed, it was actually one person who created the largest horse breed in the world — the Shire. Carl Russell, the Duke of Portland, was obsessed with the idea of breeding giant but harmonious heavy horses. His strategy was brilliantly simple: He bought the largest and most correct mares throughout England. He bought and made the legendary stallion Lincoln 1341 (later known as "Portland Lincoln") the main producer. He practiced strict inbreeding (related breeding) to consolidate desired qualities: height, bone, frieze (luxurious bristles on the legs), a strong but calm character. His stud in Welbe ... Read more