Speed of gaits in Icelandic horses and relationships to sex, age, conformation measurements and subjective judges’ scores

The aim was to measure the mean and maximum speed range of in all gaits Icelandic horses shown at a breed evaluation field test (BEFT). In addition, effect on scores for whether affected by age, sex conformation measurements were investigated. study carried out Iceland 266 (180 mares 86 stallions). Horse distance ridden recorded global positioning system during riding assessment BEFT. Conformation each gait obtained from official studbook Worldfengur . walk, slow tölt, trot, pace, canter gallop was, respectively, 1.5-2.2, 3.2-5.5, 4.6-10.6, 4.5-8.6, 7.1-11.9, 5.8-9.8 7.9-13.5 m/s (n=149-248). Scores gait, with explaining most variance pace (53%) least tölt walk (2 3%, respectively). Stallions faster than ( P <0.05). Horses aged ≥7 years 6-year-olds 4-year-olds which elevated increased height withers, croup, body length front legs conclusion, objective BEFT documented first time. information can be used formulate requirements competition manuals. Objective should future assessments BEFT, thus improve standardisation genetic breeding horses.