These four American Quarter Horses were seen romping in their snowy enclosure on Bishop Road, Morrison, IL, on Tuesday, February 16, 2021. They belong to Sandra Vanderleest, Morrison, IL. They chased each other around the pen, pretended to bite, then dashed away. Two of the steeds rolled on their backs for the fun of it.
The American Quarter Horse breed excels at sprinting short distances, whether for exercise or competition. Its name is derived from its ability to outrun other horse breeds in races of a quarter mile or less. Some have been clocked at speeds up to 55 mph.
Being turned out in a paddock/pen with heavy snow can be a more fatiguing exercise.
Two wore blankets. Two wore their naturally-thickened hair “coat,” which provides the horse with an excellent temperature control mechanism.
Upon seeing a parked car beside the enclosure, the quartet walked to where the Editor had parked. They seemed to pose for a photograph and catch their breaths.
