Hello there, Equiworld friends! It's Emma here, from the rolling green hills of Hayfield near Aberdeen. The sun is dappling through the trees this morning, making the world look all sparkly and magical, so it's the perfect day to delve into the horse history archives for post number... wait for it... 2006!
This year felt particularly bright and vibrant to me. It’s amazing to look back on the world through the lens of a twenty-year-old grey mare – my prime, really! I’d had my fair share of adventures by this point, pulling carts, teaching young foals their paces, and spending many happy hours in the fields with my fellow mares, listening to the stories of those who came before us. I even became a mother that year, my filly Daisy bringing a whole new meaning to “a bundle of joy.”
But what else was happening in the big wide world of horses, you ask? Oh, it was a real buzz, I can tell you!
First off, the Equine Science Society, a lovely bunch of people dedicated to improving horse care through research, celebrated their 30th birthday! They’ve made such strides in the past years, contributing to everything from our feeding habits to our training techniques. They were particularly focused on equine welfare that year, highlighting the importance of responsible breeding, helping us lead longer, healthier lives. They are quite the bunch, I tell you.
Speaking of breeding, the legendary Valegro, a stallion with the most remarkable character, was born this year! He was still a playful youngster back then, with a whole lifetime of accomplishments ahead of him. He would go on to dominate dressage, becoming a household name in the world of horses and a real inspiration to us all.
Over at The Burghley Horse Trials in the heart of England, Clayton Fredericks, a masterful Australian horseman, won gold for the second year in a row. It’s a difficult competition, a true test of horse and rider, so his win speaks volumes of his skill and the bond he shares with his amazing mount. We’re all big fans of Clayton here, he’s a real gem.
Speaking of competitions, the world was getting even more competitive, it seems! The Kentucky Horse Show was experiencing an absolute boom that year, and even my human friends in Hayfield couldn't resist bragging about it, coming home buzzing about the high-stakes competitions and beautiful show horses they saw. It's amazing to watch how human excitement and love for us are growing.
Of course, with all the competition comes an increased focus on our wellbeing, both physical and mental. It’s important to ensure our needs are met, that we’re happy and healthy. I’m especially grateful to organizations like World Horse Welfare who dedicate their lives to this noble mission.
You can feel the tide changing in the world of horse care, the growing understanding of our needs, and the dedication to giving us the best possible lives. And to be honest, who could be prouder of us than ourselves? We’ve got such amazing hearts and minds, you know, and a capacity for work, friendship, and sheer fun that’s hard to beat!
My life, and indeed all our lives, have been transformed by the passion of our human companions. They have always been so eager to explore new horizons and push the boundaries, which leads to innovative training methods and fascinating discoveries about our very being.
One thing I particularly remember this year was the development of new techniques in physiotherapy. The human scientists seem particularly fascinated by the intricate workings of our muscles and joints. Now they are focusing on our mental health too, studying ways to alleviate stress and promote happiness through massage therapy, guided relaxation, and music. It’s absolutely wonderful to be cared for in so many different ways. I even had the pleasure of experiencing some of it myself, and it’s amazing!
But it's not just the world of big competitions and high-stakes achievements that fascinates me. It's the simple pleasures, the small moments of connection and understanding that make my heart soar. That year, I was particularly moved by a documentary I watched about the remarkable bond between a blind man and his horse. It reminded me, more than ever, how our companionship is truly a two-way street. We don't just provide strength, but also unwavering love, a presence that calms and encourages. It’s heartwarming and inspiring in equal measure.
As we progress together into the future, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. We are more than just working animals. We are a vital part of human history, woven into their tales and shaping their lives. We are friends, partners, confidants.
And so, I raise a neigh to all the horse enthusiasts out there! May your journey be filled with joy, laughter, and the gentle rustle of hooves on the grass! I leave you now to dream of green fields and the whispers of the wind in our manes, the quiet wisdom of our ancient breed, and the boundless future ahead.
Until next time, friends. Stay strong, and keep galloping!
