> > I think we have to do-away with the "four gaited" / "five gaited" labels. They just are not right.
Or maybe acknowledge that foxtrot and the running walk are naturally occuring gaits within the Icelandic breed, as well as the racking gaits (tolt). In fact, if one looks at the old pictures and footage of the Icelandic "farmers" riding these horses from the 50's and 60's, it's hard to see anything that remotely resembles the tolt promoted and touted as the signature gait of the breed today. At least to my eyes it looks that way. I really don't think those early breeders (farmers) of the Icelandic horse were all that concerned with getting a true tolt. I think a good, "using" horse that was smooth to ride was their goal. I still am not clear who decided what the Icelandics do naturally is tolt. When and where did the first definition of what the signature gait of the breed was appear? Anyone know? Did FEIF come up with it? Just on personal observation, it seems the breed's gaiting spectrum is all over the place -- and always has been. -- Renee M. -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.516 / Virus Database: 269.19.21/1263 - Release Date: 02/06/2008 8:14 PM
