千里马 a thorough-bred horse (with stamina); a pure breed horse that can sustain long-distance rides; a pedigreed horse with staying power; a sturdy mount that can gallop far without being fatigued; a winged steed; a horse that covers a thousand li a day
千里马还需千里人 it takes good horse manship to make the most of a pedigreed horse.; it takes an appreciative patron of influence and position to turn talent and ability to full account