That would be because you have linked those traits to how they run?

I would be inclined to always watch a horse RUN, before purchase. But because I dont purchase, I dont have the authority to say. But come on Gator, you are taking more of a risk buying a yearling that has never taken a good run with a jock aboard, compared to a two year old showing his stuff.

But its not a risk if you are buying a horse for a dog show.

Nostrils? I would be inclined to like horses with large nostrils unless it is linked to some other trait that is a defect. Horses breath through their nostrils. I will never forget a picture I saw of Candy Ride upon beating Megs, his Nostrils were huge.