These breeds developed over the centuries, originating from the heavy coach horses of the 18th century. When the coaching trade met it's demise in the early 20th century, the Coach horse was bred to lighter breeds such as the Arabian and Thoroughbred to produce riding horses of good size and gaits. These breeds tend to excels in dressage and showjumping. Several types are listed under this category, most being of European ancestry, although the American Warmblood (a mixture of draft and Thoroughbred) is gaining acceptance in the competitive community.
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