The Hackney Pony

Crisp action, extreme animation and brilliant carriage are the hallmarks of today’s Hackney Pony.  At home everywhere from the show ring to pleasure drives to competitive driving events to a relaxed pasture life, the Hackney Pony is both incredibly versatile and highly sought after.

The Hackney breed originated in England and descended from Norfolk Trotters.  Hackneys ponies were developed as their own unique breed in the late 1700s and brought to the United States in the 1800s.  The American Hackney Horse Society was founded in 1891 and continues to govern the Hackney Pony in the U.S. today.

Today’s Hackney Pony is incredibly high-stepping.  Hackney Ponies are shown in four divisions:  the Hackney Pony (Cob Tail), the Harness Pony (Long Tail), Roadster Pony and Pleasure Pony.  There are many classes for the Hackney Pony in today's shows:  cob tail, harness pony, road pony, halter classes and even under saddle. All of these basic categories can be broken into further divisions such as open, amateur or youth, providing a multitude of opportunities for everyone to show.

No matter the class or the division, you can bet Hackney Ponies will be elegant and graceful.  Check them out at shows or at farms across the country.  For more information, you can visit the American Hackney Horse Society website at www.hackneysociety.com