The Welsh Pony, more commonly known as the Welsh ‘Section B’ is one of the four pure-bred sections that make up the Welsh studbook. 

Breed Description

The general description of the Section ‘A’ applies to those in Section ‘B’, but more particularly the Section ‘B’ shall be described as a riding pony, with quality riding action, adequate bone and substance, hardiness and constitution, and with pony character.

They should move well, quick free and from the shoulder with the hocks well flexed.

The head should be small, well set and clean-cut and tapering to the muzzle, with bold eyes, well placed, small and pointed ears. Additionally, the neck should be lengthy, well carried and the shoulder should be long and sloping well back.

(Royal Welsh Champion 2023 RW_CH_equinepix)

History

Descending from the hardy Welsh Mountain Pony, with the influence of Arabian and Thoroughbred blood still apparent today, the Welsh Pony section ‘B’ was initially bred for its carrying capabilities. Taller in height than the Section ‘A’, (up to 12.2hh, subsequently increasing to an upper height limit of 13.2hh), but still retaining strength of limb and hardiness, they were historically the ideal mount of hill shepherds.

 In 1930, the studbook description was altered and the breed began to evolve towards the type that is seen today. The opening of the post-war Foundation Register saw an increase in registration in section B’s, where animals with no known breeding would be inspected by appointed judges who would then pass any animal which resembled the ideal type of pony. 

The breed description was an extension of the Section ‘A’, so the pony must still have had adequate bone and substance, but have been of ‘Riding Type’, and up to 13.2hh. The Foundation Register established the base of the breed that we see today, as many of these mares accepted as ‘FS’ (Foundation Stock) had Arabian, Thoroughbred or Riding Pony Blood in them, which crossed so well with the Welsh Mountain Pony to create a strong and capable mount, as well as an impressive show pony.

(Anthony Reynolds)

Uses

Today, the Welsh Section ‘B’ can be seen in many disciplines, including showing (in hand and under saddle), jumping, dressage, eventing, cross country, and even driving. They are found in many countries around the world, and are popular in Europe, the USA and Australia. The Section ‘B’ should be considered as the ideal family pony for multi-disciplines, as they are so adept at so many activities, and are ideal from first ridden classes through to eventing. 

As a breeding animal, consider the Section ‘B’ as the ideal pure-bred sire or dam, but as a ‘Part Bred’ when crossed with other breeds, they can produce Riding Ponies, Hunter Ponies and useful Sports Ponies combining the influence of their Arabian and Thoroughbred bloodlines with the strong, hardy characteristics that are found in the Welsh blood that radiates a unique quality throughout.

Breed Societies

For more information contact the Welsh Pony and Cob Society 

(Information and images supplied by the WPCS)