The Hack horse
The Hack is more a type than a breed. It’s generally a half- or three-quarter-blood, with morphological characteristics that place it somewhere between the Thoroughbred and the Hunter.
There are many different types of Hack horse. It may be a small Thoroughbred unsuited to racing. In the 19th century, we distinguished:
- The Park Hack, more distinguished than the Road-Hack or Roadster (travel horse), with great presence and impeccable gaits, destined for dressage and even the High School, ridden by aristocrats in London parks. They were often Thoroughbreds or Anglo-Arabs.
- The Covert Hack: an elegant galloper, saddle bred type, used to travel to hunting grounds.
- The Ordinary Hack: a good walking horse.
- The Ladies Hack: for ladies, particularly distinguished, elegant, and calm, ridden in amazon.
Today’s modern, light, and graceful Park Hack is a light Thoroughbred or Anglo-Arab. The British prefer Hunters, which are taller and better suited to jumping. In the United States, American Saddlebreds are preferred.
Caractère et aptitudes du cheval
Easy, balanced, and docile, this horse has an active, free gait. Its action is regular, frank, and low. The canter is light and flowing. The trot is floaty and low, making it possible to “hold a glass full of water in your hand”.
Utilisations du cheval
Versatile, it is used for riding, hunting, leisure riding and exhibitions.
Morphologie du cheval
There is no official standard. Head rather fine, small, and racy. Large eyes. Long, slender body. Long, elegant neck. Prominent withers. Sloping shoulders. Deep chest. Well rounded hindquarters. Limbs long, healthy, and finely boned. Healthy feet. Coat: all colors permitted. Height: 1.47 to 1.60 m.
