The Alabama State Horse – The Racking Horse
Did you know that Alabama has an official state horse? It’s called the Racking Horse! This special horse is known for its smooth gait and friendly nature. Let’s learn all about this amazing breed and why it represents Alabama.
What is a Racking Horse?
The Racking Horse is a breed that moves in a special way called the rack. This gait is smooth and easy to ride. Unlike other horses, the Racking Horse does not bounce up and down much. This makes it very comfortable for riders.
History of the Racking Horse
The Racking Horse has been around for hundreds of years. It comes from the Tennessee Walking Horse. Early settlers in the South needed a horse that could travel long distances without tiring the rider. Over time, the Racking Horse became popular because of its smooth gait and gentle nature.
In 1975, Alabama chose the Racking Horse as its official state horse. The state wanted to honor this strong, graceful breed that had been part of Alabama’s history for so long.
Why is the Racking Horse Special?
The Racking Horse is unique for many reasons:
- Smooth Ride – Its special gait makes it comfortable to ride for long hours.
- Gentle Personality – These horses are friendly and easy to train.
- Strong and Fast – Even though they are smooth to ride, they can move quickly.
- Beautiful Looks – They have shiny coats, strong legs, and elegant movements.
Racking Horse Characteristics
Racking Horses come in many colors, including black, brown, chestnut, and gray. They have long, flowing tails and manes. Their legs are strong, and they hold their heads high. They look proud and elegant when they move.
Where Can You See Racking Horses?
If you want to see Racking Horses, visit Alabama! Every year, the Racking Horse World Celebration happens in Priceville, Alabama. This event is held in September and brings together the best Racking Horses from all over the country. Riders show off their horses’ smooth gaits and compete for prizes.
How Are Racking Horses Used Today?
People use Racking Horses for many activities:
- Trail Riding – Their smooth ride makes them perfect for long trails.
- Shows and Competitions – Riders love showing off their skills in horse shows.
- Pleasure Riding – Many people own Racking Horses just to enjoy riding them.
Fun Facts About Racking Horses
- A Racking Horse can travel up to 20 miles per hour while keeping its smooth gait.
- Unlike some other horse breeds, the Racking Horse does not need a lot of training to walk in its special gait.
- The name “racking” comes from the word “rack”, which means to move smoothly and quickly.
- The Racking Horse Breeders’ Association of America (RHBAA) was founded in 1971 to protect and promote the breed.
How to Care for a Racking Horse
Taking care of a Racking Horse is important. Here are some basic care tips:
- Feed Them Well – They eat hay, grass, and special horse food.
- Give Them Fresh Water – Horses need lots of clean water every day.
- Brush Their Coat – This keeps their hair clean and healthy.
- Exercise Regularly – They need to run and walk every day to stay strong.
- Check Their Hooves – Horses need their hooves trimmed and cleaned often.
Why Alabama Loves the Racking Horse
The Racking Horse represents Alabama’s rich history and love for horses. It is a symbol of hard work, strength, and grace. Many families in Alabama own and ride Racking Horses, keeping the tradition alive.
Conclusion
The Racking Horse is more than just a horse; it’s a symbol of Alabama. With its smooth gait, friendly nature, and strong history, it deserves its title as the Alabama State Horse. If you ever visit Alabama, make sure to see one of these beautiful horses in action!
Would you like to ride a Racking Horse one day? Let us know in the comments!
Did you find this interesting? If so, check more Alabama State Symbols, trivia and fun facts.