|
The Sumba and Sumbawa ponies are effectively the same,
and are named after the islands of Sumba and Sumba and Sumbawa, where they dwell. They are descended
from an ancient stock and have both Chinese and Mongolian blood infused in their veins. These
ponies are widely used on the islands for a variety of jobs, including pack, ,riding, and some
light draft work. They exhibit extraordinary strength and are frequently ridden by men for use
in the fast and furious game of Lance Throwing. They are also used in traditional Indonesian dancing
competitions, where young boys ride the ponies bareback in patterds dictated by the dance master.
The ponies are decked out with bells attached to their knees and move in time to a rhythm beaten
on a drum.
These are typically quiet ponies, and are willing with
good stamina and endurance. They are also quite fast and agile. The Sumba has primitive characteristics,
with a heavy head, a short muscular neck, a deep chest, straight shoulders, and flat withers.
They often have long backs, which are by the way very strong, and tend to have a sloping croup.
The legs are fine but strong with well-formed hooves, and although they may be any color, dun
is predominant, with a dark dorsal stripe and black points. They do not generally exceed 12.2
hh.
Check out the following links for more information about the Sumba pony breed!
http://www.paralumun.com/ponysumba.htm
Return to Horse Breeds page
|
