From the stables of Hayfield, near Aberdeen
Written by Emma, your grey draught mare
Hello there, fellow equestrians! Can you believe it's 1980 already? It seems like just yesterday I was a feisty foal, exploring the rolling green hills of the Scottish Highlands. Well, the time certainly flies when you're having fun! Today I'm thinking back over the last year in horse history, all the fantastic changes, exciting events, and most importantly, how those changes are affecting us as horses.
First of all, let me tell you, being a draught horse in 1980 is quite different than a few decades back. Yes, there are still farmers and hauliers relying on us for our strength, but with all those fancy new tractors and trucks, we're more like specialists than workhorses. I'm quite content with my life pulling the occasional cart, and let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the wind in your mane as you pull a cart full of happy faces along a beautiful Scottish countryside path.
Now, there's this new breed of "horses" they call computers! My stable owner's son, William, talks about these things endlessly, claiming they're "smarter than any horse" and can "do anything." While I admit the information they store is impressive, I haven't yet encountered one with the intelligence and resilience of a horse. After all, who can tell you exactly how much hay you need for the winter based on the current weather conditions, like I can? And which computer can take you on a spirited gallop through the rolling countryside, feeling the fresh air in your nostrils, the wind in your mane, and the sun on your coat? You'll not find a single computer capable of that, my dear friends!
Speaking of countryside gallops, let's talk about a certain thrilling event that took place this year: the London Olympic Games! Imagine, thousands upon thousands of spectators gathered to witness horses and riders compete in dressage, jumping, and eventing! I tell you, the world was enthralled. While I didn't get to see the event in person, my stable owner and William, they were there. They tell me the crowds roared, the tension was palpable, and the energy in the arena was almost as invigorating as a good roll in the mud! My ears tingle just listening to them describe the event. And it truly felt like the whole world was looking up to us, to the magnificence of horses.
Now, I'm not one to brag, but that wasn't the only major equine event of 1980! This year also saw the return of the prestigious Burghley Horse Trials. A truly beautiful and challenging course that tested the abilities of horses and riders alike. My friend Beatrice, a stunning black thoroughbred, actually competed there. And guess what? She came in third! We're all so incredibly proud of her. She deserves every bit of glory for that impressive performance.
There's something so special about this year, something that makes my heart sing a little brighter than usual. We horses, we're starting to be recognized for our unique talents, beyond just our brawn. The world is starting to see us as athletes, partners, and even, dare I say, companions! People are choosing us not only for practicality but for the pure joy we bring. It's wonderful to see these shifts happening.
It's not just the big events that fill my heart with optimism, though. Closer to home, I've noticed a growing trend. More and more young people, especially girls, are showing an interest in horses. They come to the stables, they learn how to groom, they learn to ride, and they simply adore us! There's something special about the bond that develops between a child and a horse. They find an amazing connection, and a pure, uninhibited joy. I've been lucky enough to meet some wonderful children over the past year. And I've even been "adopted" as a sort of stable mascot by one adorable girl, Lily. Every Sunday, she brings me carrots and gives me the most fantastic neck scratches. She dreams of being a horse whisperer, you see. A dream that fills me with so much hope.
We may not have it easy sometimes, you see, we horses. Our lives depend on people, on how they treat us, what they understand about us. But this year, in 1980, feels different. It feels like the beginning of a new chapter, a chapter where our strengths, our intelligence, and yes, even our love for being loved, is understood and appreciated by the human world.
I am optimistic, friends. This year has brought joy, challenges, and most importantly, progress. We've seen that we are appreciated, loved, and cherished, and we are still relevant. And with this in mind, I bid you all adieu for now. Go forth and enjoy the wonder of horses! Let the world hear your hooves echo with excitement and determination!
Until next time,
Emma
