Draughts and Pearls

I think I mentioned before that Paladin is and Irish Draught/Quarter Horse cross. Although I don't know his QH bloodlines yet (I don't yet have his papers, but I'll be getting them from the breeder), I do know about the Irish Draught side. Here's a little about IDs from the website for the Irish Draught Horse Society of North America:

"Over a century of selection has produced a warm-blooded breed which are very sound, sensible animals with good bone, substance and quality. It is proud of bearing, deep of girth and strong of back and quarters. The Irish Draught is neither as massive nor as heavily feathered as it's name implies and has movement that is smooth and free, without exaggeration, and not heavy nor ponderous. Standing over a lot of ground, the Draught has an exceptionally strong and sound constitution, great stamina and an uncanny jumping ability. In addition, this breed possesses a fabulous temperament made up of willingness, intelligence, docility and common sense."

Here is a little about Paladin's daddy, a purebred Irish Draught named Mountain Pearl:

"Mountain Pearl is one of the Irish Draught world's best known and popular stallions. He is a horse of exceptional athleticism with superb, people oriented temperament. He is 17.1 hh and bright bay. He was foaled in 1989 in County Cork, Ireland and passed performance testing by the Irish Horse Board in 1993. We imported him in late 1997 and he stands stud in eastern Iowa.

His jumping ability and movement speak for themselves:


Even so, the characteristic Mountain Pearl and his foals are most noted for is temperament. When people visit, be they horse people, or children, or grandparents they are amazed at his attitude. He is gentle, kind, and curious, yet majestic. Wow! is the most common reaction from people, then they want to get close and touch him - which he loves."