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Tom Thumb - A True Gypsy Cob


Tom Thumb
Many folk argue as to what constitutes a good gypsy cob and with the popularity of the mini cob, opinions are arguably ever more divided.  In my opinion it is always worth bearing in mind the original purpose of the gypsy cob and the sort of qualities travellers were seeking in their horses. 
Of course our reasons for keeping and breeding these horses are different to theirs in many respects.  However the qualities these people bred into their horses are actually the same qualities we need in ours today.  Our ancestors needed horses that were strong, healthy and that could stay sound in hard work.  They needed horses that were intelligent and trainable, with excellent temperament and the ability to turn their hoof to any job.  Like us they took great pleasure from the beauty and grace of their horses yet they did not breed ornaments - they bred useful horses. 

I have heard many claim that a mini cob cannot be a true gypy cob as it would not have been much use behind a waggon yet not every gypsy owned a waggon.  I believe that gypsies liked a useful horse or pony and that when they bred their cobs they would have had a purpose in mind for them.  So I am inclined to think that the height of the cob is less relevant and importance should bear more on whether the cob is fit to do a job because a useful and healthy cob is never out of fashion.

Tom Thumb
This is a photo of the legendary Tom Thumb who was owned by Robert Giles.  Robert bred many super cobs from Tom Thumb before he sold him.  Sadly Tom Thumb was gelded and eventually Robert bought him back, he is now owned by a lovely family who regularly drive him, compete in dressage and local shows.

Tom Thumb was well bred, his sire was Toy Boy and his dam a Tom Dooley mare giving him plenty of the old breeding from proper traditional cobs.  Tom Thumb is a beautiful cob, when you see him move he is breath taking and he has plenty of charisma and sparkle.  However he is not just an ornament or a mini cob fashion statement; though small he has the attitude and proper conformation to do a days work and that is what makes him a proper cob.                                                                                                                                                                 
                                               

Tom Thumb

Tom Thumb is a versatile chap; he is excellent under saddle and is well schooled on the flat, he loves jumping and is a quality alround riding pony.  Although he only stands 12hh he has the bone, depth of girth and substance to carry a small adult in comfort.

Tom Thumb









He is an excellent driving pony with endless stamina and energy and can really cover some ground. 

Tom is also a lovely character with plenty of kindness, he is a family pony who is happy to have a tiny child on his back.  During his time as a stallion, Tom Thumb proved himself to be a great producer and a, "generous stallion."  It is a great shame that he was gelded however it is also good to see that he is still a great ambassador for the breed. 


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