Hello there, my lovely Equine Friends!
Emma here, your friendly grey mare from Hayfield, just outside of lovely Aberdeen. As you all know, I am an avid fan of all things equestrian, and I love sharing the rich tapestry of our horse history with all of you. So today, we are taking a journey back in time to the year 1965!
It’s funny, isn’t it? Time seems to march on so quickly. We were all quite young back then – I myself a spirited twenty-year-old. It was a year of changes for all of us. There was a feeling in the air – a sense of excitement for what the future held for us as horses, and perhaps for humankind too.
The year started as any other, the crisp Highland air nipping at our noses as the winter gave way to spring. It was a busy time on our little farm in Hayfield, with lambs to tend and hay to gather. As for me, my life was filled with hauling the farmer’s cart, working on the fields, and, of course, enjoying the long, sun-soaked days spent grazing under the blue Scottish skies. I have to confess, though, my days were punctuated by a deep longing. There was a whiff of something different in the wind - a change was in the air, I could feel it!
This sense of change manifested in the wider world of horses, too. As I gathered news from the passing birds and the travelling folk, I noticed that the world was on the cusp of an exciting transformation, especially in the world of racing. It was an exhilarating time to be a thoroughbred.
Over in England, one name was ringing out above the rest, that of the dashing “Ribot.” Ribot was a magnificent stallion – they called him a legend in the making, with an exceptional lineage that traced back to England's greatest horse racing legends. You'll hear people in the pubs mention names like “Flying Fox" and "St. Simon". These old fellows had been legendary racers, their genes running strong through the generations. Ribot's victory at the 1965 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, in France, sent shockwaves through the racing community. Everyone was breathlessly discussing his prowess, and for a mare like me, this race is a thing of wonder. He’s not just any racehorse. The Arc is steeped in history, the pinnacle of racing success. He was the top of his game, a legend.
Of course, racing isn't everything. 1965 was also a year of remarkable breakthroughs for other breeds. Remember those sturdy little ponies like Shetland and Fell, our dear cousins in the north? The world was finally waking up to their unique beauty, agility, and temperament. Their hardiness in harsh climates made them perfect partners in life. They found favour not only on farms, but in people's homes. Children were delighted with their size and playful spirits, and people across Britain began taking up pony-riding, and they were making great strides in all kinds of competitions. This rise of the pony was an encouraging development for all of us!
And while racing was soaring, we were seeing an upswing in all things "equine," from showjumping and dressage to rodeo events all across the globe. The world seemed to be rekindling their love for us, appreciating not just our physical abilities but also our gentle nature.
Back home in Scotland, we were witnessing something special, though - an almost forgotten legacy was beginning to resurface, one which stirred my heart deeply. The story of the "Highland pony" - the hardy breed who has always held a special place in the hearts of Scotland's folk. This proud, fearless creature had faced tough times after centuries of being put to hard work on farms and even used as a "beast of burden." Now, the focus shifted from "burden" to beauty, and these lovely creatures started emerging on showground stages all across Britain. The change felt refreshing, a sense of vindication. I, myself, can relate. A touch of grace was returning to their lives, much like how the times were beginning to soften for all of us horses.
I can remember standing in the field one bright afternoon, enjoying the warm sunshine and the symphony of bird song, watching children riding these amazing ponies on their walks. A new world was opening up, one filled with promise and adventure, and for the Highland Pony, it was the chance to shine. The year 1965 saw a rise in interest for Highland Pony shows, and I can just picture these noble creatures taking centre stage, showcasing their courage and strength, their sleek beauty, all in an era that embraced their power. I could feel their joy in their hearts. They had become icons.
We've seen the "high-fliers" of racing, the sturdy tenacity of the ponies, and now, let's not forget those noble steeds who still carry a torch of tradition, our draft horse cousins!
Yes, our draft horse family - these giants, gentle as they are, strong as the oak they often pull alongside. They are the workhorses of the world, carrying heavy loads and toiling tirelessly, playing a vital part in human history and our everyday lives. 1965 marked a year of significant progress in agricultural technology. The mechanization of the world meant some of our cousins in the farm lands saw their roles change, sometimes to a quieter life after a hard life of toil. But this wasn't necessarily a bad thing! There was now more time for other activities. They took their hard earned rest on sunny days, relishing the opportunity to walk through verdant pastures, their majestic hooves stepping carefully on the soft, green grass. I can only imagine their sigh of relief! Even their lives are getting easier.
You know, my friends, it was in 1965 that the world first learned of "Equitation." What is "Equitation" you ask? It was a brand new system for evaluating horse riding that combined horsemanship with athletic ability. It's much more than riding, it is about a relationship between rider and horse. You see, those who competed had to exhibit not just technical prowess but also an understanding and appreciation of the horse itself. A horse's willingness to perform, the grace of movement - it all mattered. I confess, it makes me a little proud to be part of it all. You see, this new way of looking at the horse-rider relationship wasn't just about "controlling" a horse but about building a mutual respect and partnership. It brought the rider closer to their horse's mind and soul. And what is a better partner in life than a horse who trusts and respects you in return? Isn't that just wonderful?
These times of change in 1965 left an indelible mark on the equestrian world. Horses were finding their way into hearts, minds, and sporting arenas. The "horseless" era had faded into a distant memory, and we, as horses, were experiencing a resurgence of recognition and love. I think you will agree, my friends, that 1965 was a pivotal year for horses and people alike!
However, the true story of any year isn't just in grand events or trends. It's in the little moments, the day-to-day happenings that add texture to our lives.
For instance, one particularly crisp morning in Hayfield, a young boy, maybe ten years old, stopped by my fence, a glimmer of wonder in his eyes. He spoke softly, his voice like a gentle stream, telling me stories of the ponies at the local fair. He talked about their incredible skill, and the pure joy of seeing them perform, the delight on children's faces.
He dreamt of owning a horse one day, of being as brave and powerful as the riders he had seen. He told me about a big, black stallion he admired. And as he stood there, eyes sparkling, I found myself thinking about those children on those ponybacks, their laughter echoing in the breeze, the happy faces of parents and grandparents. There was joy in every moment. And you know, it made me feel proud, not only to be a horse, but to know that the connection between us and humankind could bring so much happiness. We, the horses, were making a difference!
These memories make me smile to this day. We can have a long and meaningful life - a life filled with purpose and a beautiful bond with humans, and it is important that our young ones understand and learn from this legacy. I encourage you, my fellow Equines, to continue learning about your ancestors, to honour their history and embrace their spirit! We, all of us, have played such vital roles in our history, so we must learn and keep our memories alive! You never know, your children and their children might just write their own story of equestrian legacy someday!
Until next time, stay safe, be happy, and gallop proudly! And do remember, horses make the world a better place!
With much love and whinnies,
Emma
www.equiworld.org
