Polo pony

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A horse used in the game of polo is called a "pony", but is almost always bigger than the official maximum height for a pony; 1.47 meters (14.2 hands). Most polo ponies are between 14.3 - 15.3 hands. They are typically either American Thoroughbreds (often failed racehorses) or Argentine Thoroughbreds, which are Thoroughbred mixed with the native Argentine "criollo" breed. Quarter Horses, Appaloosas and Paints are also seen in use, especially at the lower levels of polo.

Polo ponies need to be almost fearless, and not afraid to bump into other horses, and they can't shy at mallets swinging near their heads. They need to be quick and agile so they can turn and follow the ball through its many changing movements.