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About a Breed
More than a
Race Horse
Quarter horses offer riders
versatility and strength
By Monique Noble
ONE OF THE most consistently popular horses
in North America, the quarter horse is beloved by
all kinds of horse owners — and for good reason.
The quarter horse earned its name by consistently
outrunning other breeds in quarter-mile races,
reaching speeds of up to 88.5 km/h.
Founded in 1940, the American Quarter Horse
Association (AQHA) has become the largest breed
registry in the world, with over 6 million horses
registered worldwide.
This breed traces its origins back to at least
the 1600s, crossing stock horses owned by North
American colonists and Native American horses
which were descended from Spanish Barbs. Blending
the athleticism of thoroughbreds, the endurance of
Arabians, the hardiness of mustangs and the strength
and quiet natures of dependable draught horses,
quarter horses became well-rounded animals.
Also known as steeldust horses, these horses
were an integral part of pioneer life and early
cowboy culture. Colonists and cowboys alike valued
them for their speed and strength — and cowboys
quickly came to count on their skill with cattle.
They worked well in harness, under saddle and with
livestock — and made for excellent race horses.
The quarter horse’s sweet nature and all-around
talents made it the breed of choice for distinguished
Alberta veterinarian and horseman Wayne Burwash.
He has been breeding quarter horses since 1970
and he has never — as a breeder or a veterinarian —
encountered another breed with such versatility.
“Because of the versatility, in the past they were
kind of jack of all trades, master of none horses — the
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Alberta Bits Fall 2025