Sumba and Sumbawa Pony
 Sumbawa Pony | |
| Country of origin | Indonesia |
|---|---|
| Equus ferus caballus | |
The Sumba Pony and Sumbawa Pony are named after the islands on which they are bred -- Sumba and Sumbawa Island respectively. However, the two breeds are very similar. The ponies descended from Mongolian Horses and ancient Chinese stock. A closely related breed also developed in these islands is the Sandalwood Pony, which came from crossing the native ponies on horses of Arabian breeding.[1]
Uses
Sumba and Sumbawa ponies are today used for pack, riding, and light draft work. They are incredibly strong, and many are ridden by men in games of lance throwing despite never reaching 13 hands high. Young boys also ride the ponies bareback in traditional dance competitions, manuveuring them in patterns as instructed. The knee of the ponies are decorated with bells, that chime in rhythm to the drumming.[1]
Characteristics
The ponies are quick, agile, athletic, and fast, with great endurance, and a willing temperament. They usually have primitive coloring, being dun with a dorsal stripe and black points, although they may be any color. The Sumba and Sumbawa have a heavy head, short, muscular neck, and low withers. The back is usually long, although it is still strong, and the legs are fine but tough with good hooves. Most ponies do not exceed 12.2 hh,[1] and the average height is around 12 hh.[2]