The thoroughbred is found all over the world.  Thoroughbreds first came from England, and many are now raised for racing and jumping.  Thomas Jefferson and George Washington both owned thoroughbreds.  They are very popular in the United States.  They own many world records with speed. After thoroughbred foals have just turned one, they already have a rider on their backs.  They are usually very big horses.  They are over sixteen hands tall!  Many people use them for jumpers or polo ponies.  If they are not fast enough for the track, people use them as well loved pleasure horses.