One of the goals of the HLQHA is to educate the players of Hay! Land about the quarter horse breed. Here is a brief history of the breed along with some links that may be helpful if you'd like to learn more about quarter horses.

The American Quarter Horse is the first breed of horse native to what is now the United States. A melting of various breeds brought to the English colonies in the 1600s, the Quarter Horse evolved to fill the colonists' passion for short-distance racing. One-on-one match races were run down village streets, country lanes or level pastures.

These heavily muscled, compact horses could run a short distance over a straightaway faster than any other horse, and the fastest were called Celebrated American Quarter Running Horses. Over the years, there were different variations of names, but in 1940 a registry was formed to preserve the breed which officially became the American Quarter Horse.

During its history, the breed also became well known for its cow sense (the ability to out maneuver cattle) and calm disposition. Today, the heavy muscling and sprinter's speed remain characteristic traits, but like so many things modern the breed has been specialized to excel at particular events. There are American Quarter Horses competing in every discipline imaginable, from traditional rodeo events such as roping and barrel racing to the refined English classes of dressage and show jumping. Although competition options are nearly unlimited, the number one interest of American Quarter Horse owners remains riding for recreation.

Although the athletic prowess of the American Quarter Horse carries many riders to the winner's circle, it is the breed's versatility and gentle nature that have made it the world's most popular horse. A novice rider of any age or a seasoned professional can find an American Quarter Horse that will provide a ride you will always remember. This information is an excerpt from the AQHA.