Big Feet and Turf Racing

Question
We recently bought an unraced three year old filly who is just beginning her training. Two different horse breeders (not involved in the sale) have said to us "she's got big feet - looks like a turf horse"

Have you heard this before ?  Why would horses with bigger feet run better on the turf ?


Answer
Rich,

It has long been thought that horses with wider, flatter feet do better on the turf than horses who have a more compact foot shape.  I don't believe that there have been any studies done to this effect, but I have heard the idea from old-timers before.
The thinking seems to be that wider feet don't cut into the turf as easily, so they use less energy when running on the turf.  
Personally, I think that the horse's running action has far more to do with his or her ability (or lack thereof) on the turf than their foot shape.
Good luck with your new filly!
Stephanie Frost