What is it about very small equines that seems to make them so ideally suited to combined driving? We've asked ourselves this question countless times, and answered with so many intangibles: their willing hearts, their brave natures, their dauntless spirits. We acknowledge that they are not invincible. As with any horses, they should not pull loads that overtax them. We've been keeping formal and informal statistics on VSEs in CDEs since 2005, from events around the country with varied conditions. Though we've had anecdotal reports of overfaced VSEs, no hard data has come to hand about such situations, though it has for larger equines.

We've already shown that VSEs are more than up to the challenges and rigors of full-length Marathons. (See "A Mini Macro Marathon," The Whip, December 2005.) So why do they finish such rigorous events with vital signs measurably better than their larger cousins? Are the little guys really that much "better?" Does it have anything to do with speeds?

Once again, then, a controlled research study was done at Happ's in Ethel, Washington, arguably the center of the universe for VSEs in CDEs. This time the field of laboratory contestants included not only VSEs, but also larger ponies and horses for comparison -- same day, same conditions - in the "Mini Midi Maxi Marathon." Not all the little horses were seasoned competition veterans; quite a few were new to the sport.

All equines were weighed, as were their total "loads," including drivers and all gear. All animals' vitals were recorded at rest in the barn, after sections D and E of the Marathon, and after the recovery period. The instructions to VSE drivers in this study were a bit different from those of the previous study and from recognized CDEs. Instead of proving what we already know - that at current speeds and full distances, VSEs do mighty well - this year we set out with no set speed window in mind. No clocks, no watches, no holding the horses back to a speed limit, no walking the last 500 meters. Drivers of VSEs were asked to work their horses at the same intensity as the larger horses work in competition. Ponies and horses were to go their competition speeds as our "control group."

Here, then are the results. When VSEs are worked at the same intensity as the larger horses and ponies, their vital signs are very similar to those of the larger equines. When we calculated their speeds we found that they ranged from the current ADS figure of 9 kph for the less experienced and less fit horses to 10 and 11 kph for the more experienced and fit. All the horses in the study showed quick and complete recoveries after exertion.

We've long been ultra cautious with our very little horses, extremely aware of possibilities that ill outcomes could befall them. And because of perceptions, we've been very, very conservative as VSEs have become greater partners in ADS events.

We've taken our time to develop and to show that these small horses are not just funny little trinkets in doll clothes, but worthy and talented competitors chosen specifically for their many attributes. As we've grown in our sport, so now it may be time to look at growth in our rules. Is it time, based on experience and measurable data, to take a look at those speeds?

If speeds for some VSE levels were to be increased, it should be kept in mind that organizers and officials may reduce maximum speeds if the course and conditions warrant. (Very deep footing, sharp rocks, unrelenting steepness, heat and humidity, etc.) Competitors are encouraged to talk with organizers to let them know what they want and what their horses can handle.

What next? We see several great possibilities.

• Already, VSE participation in ADS events has grown dramatically, both in numbers of events offering VSE divisions and in numbers of horses competing. This growth, however, shows a pattern of hot spots, not consistent throughout the country. It is our hope that growth will continue and will heat up in those areas that are still cool around VSEs.
• As VSE driving has expanded and matured, a cadre of very talented horses and drivers has come to the fore in Prelim and Intermediate levels, in turnouts of singles and multiples. Their excellence deserves recognition in its own right, out of the shadow of larger turnouts. (Thank you to Hardy Zantke for his July 2008 Wheelhorse article!)
• The VSE community has been and continues to be singular in its intensity and dedication to the sport and to the ADS. These dedicated people are a force of good nature, pouring at least as much into the sport and helping others as they are gleaning their own benefits. We hope and plan that they will continue to grow and contribute in their inimitable ways.

For complete data gathered at the 2008 Mini Midi Maxi Marathon and others, go to the Happ's website www.happs-inc.com and click on Miniature Horse Research.