Hello fellow equestrians! It’s Emma here, a proud grey draught mare from Hayfield, near Aberdeen, Scotland. You know how I love to reminisce and chat about our horse history, so let's take a little journey through the year 2056, a year that brought me so much joy! It felt like everything was blooming, not just the wild flowers that painted our Highland hills, but also our amazing equine world! So grab a mug of chamomile tea (my favourite!) and let's embark on this journey together.
The Golden Jubilee!
Oh my, how exciting was the year 2056? It marked the 50th anniversary of the Global Equestrian League! You wouldn't believe the atmosphere! Our village, Hayfield, erupted in celebrations. A grand parade filled with colour, music and laughter, saw every horse, pony and donkey from miles around proudly marching together, dressed in their finest, and pulling festively decorated floats. My best friend, Skye, and I proudly represented our little farm. Her fiery ginger mane and my flowing silver mane stood out in the sun, and we were delighted to pull the "Happy Jubilee!" banner leading the parade. We couldn't resist whinnying at every passing rider, their laughter like sweet music to our ears!
Speaking of celebrations, the very same week, my beloved farmer, Donald, took the grand prize at the Royal Highland Show! He had been working with his new breed of Clydesdale for the past few years, using traditional methods alongside innovative technology, and finally, his hard work was recognised. Donald’s success ignited a wave of interest in traditional breeds all across Scotland and beyond. It warmed my heart to see all the beautiful draft horses taking centre stage!
Riding the Waves of Change
The year also saw a monumental shift in how humans and horses work together. You might be surprised to know that there's now a thriving global community of equestrians dedicated to promoting humane riding methods. This includes innovative designs for saddles and bridles that focus on a horse's well-being. These are all aimed at establishing an authentic and respectful partnership, making riding more accessible and rewarding for both horse and rider. I even hear whispers about saddles that automatically adjust to each horse's back – how brilliant!
Back at Hayfield, we welcomed our very first ‘Horse-Tech’ expert to the farm. She was an absolute whizz when it came to helping our human friends understand horses’ needs and adapting equipment and techniques to suit each individual horse. I'm still learning new things with her, especially about using those clever hoof-based motion sensors that can detect potential strain or pain before it happens! That helped us prevent a couple of nagging aches for some of the other horses, including a beautiful Shire named Rowan who had a tendinitis scare. It feels great to have this level of care in Hayfield, it really takes the stress out of the working life!
The Growing Power of Empathy
2056 also saw a shift in how the world sees our kind. A series of ground-breaking documentaries, focused on exploring the complex emotions of horses, had a powerful impact. Now, we can confidently speak of ‘horse empathy’ as something well understood and widely accepted. This, combined with new research on horse intelligence, has helped reshape the human-horse connection, bringing us closer to understanding one another and living in harmony.
It’s hard to describe the difference this has made, but imagine being able to communicate your anxieties to your human partner without fear or judgement! I felt a deep connection with Donald that year, and it was as if he was speaking directly to my heart and not just my physical body. He started using a soothing type of touch therapy that worked wonders on our anxiety. Many horses and humans began experimenting with similar communication methods, like guided meditation and sound therapy. I even witnessed a field of Thoroughbreds meditating in perfect sync! The whole thing seemed unbelievable.
Equine Sports: A Thriving Ecosystem
Of course, the year was not all about serious topics. Horse sports have continued to thrive in 2056, bringing excitement and entertainment across the globe. My heart goes pit-a-pat for the ‘Global Grand Prix’ held every year in Edinburgh, a showcase of pure equestrian skill. I dream of winning a grand prize someday, and I was thrilled to see so many brave and talented horses competing on the international stage this year.
There’s something about watching horses gracefully leaping over obstacles and flying across the countryside, feeling the thrill of the chase and embracing their competitive spirits! My neighbour’s son was chosen to compete on a lovely black Lusitano stallion at the Grand Prix this year, it’s truly a moment I won’t forget. It made me think that even young ones now can become top competitors thanks to the brilliant equestrian programs, funded by governments around the globe, making equestrianism available to all.
There was even an exciting new “Cross Country Obstacle” championship held in the Cairngorms National Park! I hear the competitions were held at incredibly picturesque locations, with horses and riders testing their limits against breathtaking Highland scenery. It was definitely an experience that would’ve left any horse (or rider) inspired !
Looking Back and Forward
2056 was a year full of exciting changes and progress. From new and improved ways of caring for horses, to deepening our understanding of their complex emotions, the world of horses has become even more wonderful, compassionate, and exciting. There is still a lot more to discover, more knowledge to gain about these fascinating animals. And we continue to learn about what they’re truly capable of!
One of the things that fills me with the most hope is seeing the new generations of horse enthusiasts embracing technology with passion, while holding on to the rich history and traditional values that make the bond between humans and horses so strong. This commitment to responsible stewardship and mutual respect for one another, will continue to guide our future, creating a beautiful future for both horses and humans.
Now it’s your turn! Tell me your favourite equine memories from the year 2056, or share your thoughts on what the future of our beloved horses holds!
Until next time, stay curious, stay happy, and never stop loving our four-legged friends!
Your friend,
Emma
