Posted by: Emma, Hayfield, Aberdeen, Scotland.
Good evening, fellow equestrians! It’s Emma here, writing to you from my favourite field in Hayfield, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. I know, I know, you’re thinking: "Emma, 1991?! Where on earth did you dig that one up from?". I promise, dear friends, this is going to be a fascinating look at how the equestrian world was a whole year ago, back in the year 1991!
Now, you see, 1991 was a particularly significant year for me, for a few reasons. It was the year I reached the age of twenty, which felt like a very big deal in horse years! And let's face it, you're at your best, strongest, and most beautiful when you reach that age, a veritable grand dame of the equine world! I felt full of wisdom, a bit of a seasoned professional, as you might say. My mane and tail were thick and gleaming white, my coat a soft silver, and my temperament, well, you can say I was positively regal. I felt ready for whatever life threw at me, whether it was a demanding harvest season pulling a plough or the gentle rhythm of carrying my rider on a leisurely trail.
And 1991 was certainly full of news and events that kept us equine enthusiasts glued to our - ahem - feed troughs, pardon the expression, though I do believe there are quite a few horse-themed newspapers these days. One particular highlight for me that year was the news of the American National Arabian Horse Association’s World Cup in August. Imagine, thousands of gorgeous Arabians strutting their stuff, showing off their majestic grace and flowing manes! I wouldn’t miss it for the world… well, for the entire hayfield!
Speaking of the World Cup, you can bet there were countless equestrian competitions held throughout the year! I watched the Olympic Games on the television (that was the thing where we all stand still with our eyes glued to a box on a stand). The equestrian team from Germany triumphed that year, earning them gold medals! Just goes to show you, they really know their horses in Germany, just like they know their sausage!
But even though the Olympics held their own, my heart truly belongs to the quieter, more intimate moments, the times we can simply enjoy the bond between ourselves and our human companions. Just like I spend my time working in the fields and being a dear friend to young Ewan, a lovely little lad with a smile as bright as the sun. It reminds me of that very special moment a year ago when a local farmer from the neighbouring town called my owner to help out with a big event.
It seems they were organising a fun run in support of local charities. Not just any fun run, mind you, but a special horse-drawn cart race. Can you believe it? We’d be competing, our muscles and strength put to the test against the other farm horses. Naturally, I, with my strong legs and kind nature, was chosen to pull the cart.
And oh, it was a joy to be part of it all! All the families of the village gathered in a huge field, waving and cheering as we set off in our horse-drawn carriages, my strong legs taking us on a thrilling adventure. You wouldn’t believe how competitive those humans are! I mean, I was running with my head held high and hooves planted firmly on the ground, pulling the cart like it was nothing, but those people… well, let's just say the whole cheering and hollering reminded me of a lively herd of cattle after a feast!
And even though it wasn't a championship race, I distinctly remember winning. You could almost say it was an "Emma-fied" experience! The look on Ewan’s face, filled with awe and wonder, was more rewarding than any ribbon I could ever win. And the feeling of helping raise money for those in need, well, you can’t ask for a better feeling! I realised then that horses aren’t just meant for competitions and fancy shows, we’re also meant to be there for our fellow creatures, a powerful reminder that we share a wonderful bond with humanity.
Oh, and have I mentioned those special hooves that are getting so popular? Don’t worry, I know we’re all about hooves at EquiWorld! And they weren't a part of any of the big events this year but boy, was everyone talking about the newest “Barefoot Horse Trilogy” series. The idea, apparently, was about making us hooves a lot more free and happier by not even wearing shoes! We were called 'natural horses'. I don’t know how well that would have worked for me, as you know I love my shoes! Still, it was nice that they started giving hooves some extra thought. It made me feel quite special!
But of course, no matter how popular hoof trends might become, it's the core aspects of horses that still remain vital – our care, well-being, and the special bond we share with humans. As I watch the moon rise above Hayfield and listen to the sheep grazing peacefully in the distance, I’m filled with a sense of quiet contentment. What a joy it is to be a horse! What a joy it is to live in a world where the passion for equines is growing stronger by the day!
And remember, folks, our journey as equestrians is never truly over. We learn from every season, every stride we take, every friendship we make. So let us cherish every moment, appreciate our hooves, be kind to our horses, and enjoy the ever-evolving tapestry that is the equestrian world. See you all next time!
Love, Emma.
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