Researchers from the University of Cambridge and the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in London are studying the bones of history’s greatest Thoroughbred racehorses to better understand what made the horses so unique. Some of the most famous horses that will be studied include Eclipse, Hyperion, Hermit and St. Simon.

Eclipse went undefeated during his racing career (1769-1770). He was forced to retired early because few trainers wanted to run their horses against him. Eclipse's 216-year-old skeletal remains were preserved because of his legendary stature and were kept at the National Horseracing Museum in Newmarket, England.

The team is hoping to gain access to several more thoroughbred sires who have made a significant contribution to the modern thoroughbred gene pool. These will come from personal collections and museums including the Natural History Museum, London, through the auspices of Paula Jenkins, the Collection Manager for Mammals.

The remains of these celebrated thoroughbreds will have their DNA extracted to examine their genetic makeup. Dr Mim Bower at the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research will lead the team to analyse the ancient DNA. They will be using sensitive analytical techniques developed for use with specimens of considerably greater age, such as Neanderthals and cave bears.

The team at the RVC, led by Professor Matthew Binns, will be doing a thorough genetic characterisation of the descendents of these famous thoroughbreds. Researchers hope it will give a better understanding of how they became legendary racehorses and provide genetic tools that in the long term can be used to selectively breed healthier race horses.

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