An English Thoroughbred called Hambletonian was one of the best racehorses of the late 18th century, and wes later a good sire. In a famous match with Mr. Cookson's Diamond over the four mile Beacon Course at Newmarket on 25 March 1799, Hambletonian won by a neck. The owner, Sir Henry Vane-Tempest, had wagered 3,000 guineas on the outcome.

Afterwards, the horse was the subject of a painting, Hambletonian, Rubbing Down, by George Stubbs. The life size painting - quite possibly the greatest equine portrait - now hangs in a new gilt frame above the staircase landing at Mount Stewart House, Co Down, Northern Ireland. And, if I remember correctly, Hambletonian's tail hangs beside it.