In France around 1914, the crossing of thoroughbred stallions and native mares gave rise to a breed known as "half-blood" [demi-sang]. Around 1958, this demi-sang was then crossed with half-blood Anglo-Arabs from the southwest to give rise to the famous French saddle horse. Its genetics, the result of multiple selections and crosses, is a standard in sports and recreation on the international scene. A top-level athlete, the French saddle horse stands out notably in show jumping and the three-day event. According to the National stud farms, the breed is characterised by five qualities: elegance, strength, balance, respect and intelligence.