Common Questions Asked Of CSI
What IS a Curly Sporthorse?
A Curly Sporthorse is a Curly bred horse that is bred and trained (if mature enough) to participate in sport horse events.
Sport horse events include competitive or recreational (non-competitive) dressage, jumping, combined training, or driving.
Being “Curly Bred” does not mean that the horse MUST exhibit a curly coat, as not all Curlies show strong expression or any expression of the Curly genetics. What is more important than the coat is the horse’s disposition, trainability, movement, & athleticism.
Another rare and unusual attribute of the Curly Sport Horse is that most of them tend to be hypoallergenic. This can be verified by a simple allergy test, slowly exposing the allergic rider to the horse, careful to note any reaction. Some riders find that they are basically allergy free around Curlies (excluding any environmental allergies, such as to dust, hay, or other air transported allergens). Some riders find that they do react, but it their reaction is reduced significantly. Allergy tests can be performed long distance (you can be sent a sample of the horse’s hair by mail) but it is recommended to test them in person for more conclusive results.
Please note that many straight coated horses from Curly bloodlines are also hypoallergenic.
But Curly Sport Horses are not JUST for riders with allergies. There are other tendencies of Curlies that contribute to its ability to function in the sport horse world, such as strong hooves that often do not need shoes, substantial, strong bone, a innate curiosity, and willingness and interest in interaction with people (which tends to translate into ease of training). Plus they are unique and interesting.
Stand out in the crowd! Put a little curly in your world!
Additional Common Questons:
Q: What IS a sporthorse anyway?
A: The classical definition of “Sporthorse” refers to a horse (of any breed) used as a competitive or recreational horse for dressage, jumping, 3-day eventing and combined driving.
Q: Is CSI JUST for breeders?
A: Not at all. On the contrary, if you look at Member Services, you will see that there are many other areas of focus beyond breeding, including education, awards (not all require riding), plus our members discussion list is the foundation of the member community and hosts a variety of topics.
Q: Is CSI JUST for breeders?
A: Not at all. On the contrary, if you look at Member Services, you will see that there are many other areas of focus beyond breeding, including education, awards (not all require riding), plus our members discussion list is the foundation of the member community and hosts a variety of topics.
Q: Who is eligible for CSI Horse of the Year Awards?
A: All CSI registered horses are eligible to participate by competing in sporthorse events (see Awards).
Q: Who qualifies as a CSI Founding Member?
A: A CSI founding member is a member in good standing who joined CSI prior to January 1, 2004 and maintains a continuous membership. Founding members are eligible for additional discounts beyond regular member discounted fees on all CSI services.
Q: What horses are eligible for CSI Sport Horse inspections?
A: All horses attending CSI inspections must have CSI registration papers, either in the improvement stock division or one of the registry divisions based on Curly bloodlines.
Q: Who can host a CSI Sport Horse inspection?
A: Any CSI member in good standing may host a Sport Horse Inspection. Contact the inspection coordinator for details.