Peneia Pony
The Peneia Pony (Greek: αλογάκι της Πηνείας) is a rare breed of pony from the Peloponnese in southern Greece. Peneia is a poetic name for the peninsula, often found in classical texts.
| Other names | Geogalidiko Georgalidiko Pinia |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Greece |
Characteristics
Peneias generally stand between 10.1 and 14 hands high, and are usually bay, black, chestnut, or gray, although other colors are seen. They have a well-proportioned head with a convex profile and a well-set neck running into low withers, a wide chest, and muscular, sloping shoulders. They have a short back, sloping croup, and long legs with small, tough hooves.[1]
The natural gait of the Peneia breed is fairly stilted, so they are usually taught a smoother gait called the aravani.
History
The breed was founded on an autochthonous Greek variety very possibly related to the Pindos, and later crossed with Anglo-Arab, Anglo-Norman and Nonius strains. Its herdbook was only established in 1995. The breed is found in Elis and Achaea in the northwest of the Peloponnese.[2]
According to Greek Agriculture Ministry statistics, as of 2002 there were two hundred thirty-one breeding mares and sixty-nine stallions.[3]
Uses
Peneias are used as draft animals, pack animals, and mounts for riding and jumping.[2] The stallions are often used for breeding hinnies.[1] Crosses with the Thoroughbred have produced faster horses, while the Hellenic National Stud Book Society is promoting a new breeding program crossing Peneia stallions with light draft mares.
References
- Bongianni, Maurizio (1988). Simon & Schuster's Guide to Horses and Ponies. Simon & Schuster, Inc. p. 162. ISBN 0-671-66068-3.
- Springate, Lynda (1997). "Twenty-five: Principal Pony Breeds of the World". The Encyclopedia of the Horse (reprint ed.). New York: Crescent Books. p. 205, s.v. "Peneia Pony". ISBN 0-517-18461-3.
- "Peneia Pony". EAAP Animal Genetic Data Book. Retrieved December 29, 2007.