Champions of the Horse

Saving Rare Breeds

Thrilling equestrian tales from the edge of extinction! From Nazi Germany to the mountains of Wales, India to the American Plains, discover how familiar breeds of horse were brought back from the brink of extinction.

The horse has been mankind’s best friend for thousands of years – the Chinese symbol of courage and success. From the first wild horses that roamed the Asian steppe to the racing Thoroughbred, the miniature Falabella and the heavy Shire, the horse has been bred in a variety of shapes and sizes. But many breeds have become extinct as the world has become more dependent on machinery and the automobile.

Yet some dedicated people have stepped in to save breeds on the edge of extinction, tirelessly working at great cost and effort, without thanks or reward. From Mongolia to Ireland, India to the American West, this book tells some of the stories of these devoted people and their love for the magnificent horse.

Read how the ancient Tarpan was recreated by the Nazis and now grazes nature reserves worldwide as the Konik Polski. Find out how the unique Kerry Bog Pony was rescued in Ireland, and the noble Persian Caspian was saved in Iran by an American woman who was imprisoned for her devotion to her horses. Follow the stories of the Friesian in Holland, the Eriskay Pony in Scotland, the Marwari in India, the Carneddau Pony in Wales, and the Sorraia in Portugal. Learn how the ancient Takhi is once more roaming the steppes of Mongolia, wild and free – and see how the mustangs of America and other wild horses across the world have been protected. And find out the dreadful price that some breeds have to pay in genetic disorders in the search for the perfect breed.

Readers say:

"Amazing book. So full of interesting horse stories. And really well written, too."

"History without the boring bits. I loved it."

"I hope the author writes more like this!"

"Informative and utterly fascinating! I couldn’t put it down!”