Shetlands provided speed gene (From Gazette & Herald)

Shetlands provided speed gene

9:30am Wednesday 8th February 2012 in Equestrian

THE Shetland pony is one of the most well-known of our British native breeds and will bring back fond memories of a much-loved first pony for many riders.

The fast and furious action of a Shetland Grand National is guaranteed to bring a smile to the faces of visitors to many shows and country fairs throughout the summer months.

It may come as a surprise to learn that recent research suggests that it was the humble Shetland that gave the modern day thoroughbred racehorse its speed.

Scientists have carried out a study into the genetic history of sprint racehorses and their findings have shown that the speed gene entered bloodlines when the Darley and Godolphin Arabians and Byerley Turk were bred with native British breeds.

The gene variant, known as C-type myostatin, has been pinpointed to a single British native mare that lived 300 years ago.

Shetlands are known to have the highest frequency of this gene so it seems a safe bet that the modern-day top sprint horses have the Shetland to thank for their athleticism.