- Budenny/Budyonny - |
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 The Budenny, Budyonny, or Budyonovsky horse is one of the newer Russian breeds, created after the Russian revolution. One of the people's heroes of the Revolution was Marshal Budyonny, whose aim was to create the perfect cavalry horse. This horse had to have stamina, toughness, and equable temperament, courage, and physical prowess involving both speed and jumping ability. The military stud farm at Rostov was chosen as the location for the development of the breed, which was to be named after its instigator, Marshal Budyonny. Using Thoroughbred stallions on Don mares proved to be quite successful. Other breeds, particularly the Kazakh and Kirgiz from Mongolia, were not so successful. Chernomor mares, which were similar to Dons but lighter and smaller, were also tried, with more success. The breed type was quickly fixed and by 1948 was already breeding true to type, when it was finally officially recognized. The Budyonny is a kind natured, patient, and intelligent horse, but nevertheless has spirit, courage, and enthusiasm as well as incredible speed, stamina, and jumping ability. Although they are frequently bred on the state studs, large herds of the Budyonny still run free under te care of a groom, and as such remain quite hardy and tough. The Budyonny makes an excellent, all around competition horse, and also goes quite well in light harness. It excels at both endurance riding and flat racing. The faults that are present in the Don's conformation can be seen to a somewhat lesser extent in the Budyonny. The Budyonny has a head that reveals definite Thoroughbred ancestry. They have fine ears of medium length, bold, generous eyes, and a straight or slightly concave profile. The nostrils are open and flaring. Most Budyonnys are chestnut, and although solid colors occur, it happens quite rarely. They usually stand approximately 16 hh.
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