Greetings, fellow equines, and all you humans who love us as much as we love you! Emma here, your trusty grey mare from the highlands of Scotland, reporting from my beloved Hayfield, near Aberdeen. It’s been another eventful year, packed with news from far and wide. I thought it was about time for another entry on my blog here at Equiworld, and let me tell you, 1912 was a whirlwind!
This year has truly felt like a transition period. You see, back in my youth, the horse was the lifeblood of this country, carrying burdens, powering machinery, and taking humans wherever they needed to go. Now, with all the talk of ‘motorcars’ and the likes, you can practically smell a change in the wind, though none of us quite knows where it's headed yet.
Even in my quiet corner of Scotland, things are changing. Though I wouldn’t trade life here for anything. The air is crisp and the rolling hills stretch for miles, with only the occasional rumble of a distant tractor to disturb the peace. Oh, the joy of feeling the breeze on my coat, the soft earth beneath my hooves as I pull the plough, and the quiet contentment of grazing in the meadow after a long day’s work!
However, it seems this change I mentioned is impacting everything. Just this month, we lost the great champion, Sceptre. She was an extraordinary horse, an unbelievable racer who captured the hearts of many. The news was a true blow, showing the world that even the mightiest among us face the same challenges. Her spirit still lives on though, in her many progeny. Her impact on the thoroughbred world will forever be felt.
This year, we’ve seen more interest in breeding lighter, faster horses for the racecourse. It’s truly a wonder to watch, seeing them leap across the green fields like the wind! Of course, we hardworking draught horses have our place in the world. Though things may be changing, there’s no denying the vital role we play. After all, it takes more than speed to get a job done properly, wouldn't you agree?
The London Olympics this year was another spectacular sight. A true celebration of our strength and spirit. Seeing all those diverse breeds from across the world coming together for sport and companionship, was truly uplifting.
Oh, but did you know that it was in 1912 that the Horse-Drawn Vehicles and Tramways Act was passed? Yes, indeed! This act established specific regulations for horsedrawn transport, a move which ensured safer conditions for both horses and the public. It even established certain standards for roads to accommodate horse traffic, though it wouldn't prevent a bit of mud in wintertime, no matter how much care you take!
Did I mention the new carriages this year? They’re much lighter, faster, and less cramped, a far cry from the cumbersome horse-drawn coaches of old. The innovation just doesn’t stop. These new creations are sure to become quite the vogue.
Speaking of vogue, have you seen the latest trends in horsemanship? All the humans are aflutter about new saddle designs, fashionable bridles, and the most impeccable grooming tools. Why, even the blacksmith is using new hammers to shape horseshoes, claiming they bring a new edge to the craft! You can almost hear the whispers: “What will they think of next?”
From my perspective here in Hayfield, there’s a real sense of anticipation for the future. We all know that things will change, perhaps even drastically. But for now, we can enjoy our simple life, appreciate the love we have for each other, and savor the work we do. The humans always say, ‘time marches on,’ but it doesn’t stop us from appreciating every moment, does it?
After all, a life without the gentle clip clop of hooves on the cobbles, the steady rhythm of the plough cutting through the soil, the camaraderie of our fellow horses, and the quiet companionship of a farmer on a cold morning, wouldn’t be worth living, wouldn’t you say?
Keep your hooves strong, stay happy, and let's look forward to seeing what 1913 has in store!
Until next time,
Emma
