During the Civil War in 1917-1921 it was widely used by all parties for mounting machine guns (such as a “Maxim”) with its combat crew, and was known as a “tachanka”.

The troika is widely employed in traditional Russian pictures, music and literature and is usually compared to a bird.

The best horse for a troika is considered to be the famous Orlov trotters, not only for their stamina and fast long stride, but also for their beauty and elegance.

In the past only very rich people could afford a troika with Orlov trotters.

Modern Troyka

Troika horses are also very well trained. The training starts with young horses of one and a half years of age and can take up to ten years to reach its full potential.

In addition, a traditional Russian troika is usually accompanied by around 100 bells under the collar and on the harness and is considered to be a musical instrument by some. The bells are not just a decoration, but also used to serve as a warning system to anybody in the way about the fast-approaching troika. Peter the Great tried to introduce horns, but the practical bells won the argument.

Nowadays, troika racing teams come from many Central Russian cities, as well as France and Finland, and head to Moscow for races.