by Susanna Newsonen

This is an excerpt from Horse Girl reprinted with permission from the author.

I jumped as the alarm went off. I hadn’t been in a deep sleep with all the butterflies in my stomach but the alarm still spooked me. I was on high alert. Frankly, I’d barely slept. I leapt out of bed and looked outside. It was still pitch black. I grabbed my uniform which I’d prepared the evening before and got ready. I forced a cracker with a slice of cheese down me whilst standing by the kitchen sink.

Eating was the last thing I wanted to do but I knew I’d need the energy. I’d need everything I had. I grabbed my readily packed kit and headed into the car. Before getting in, I took some long, deep breaths. Gosh, the nerves were really getting to me. As I drove out of the garage, I checked the clock: 4 a.m. The early bird catches the worm, right? Eww - the thought of that just made me feel even more nauseous. Not good.

Before I knew it, I’d arrived at the stables. It wasn’t a long drive and in today’s focused state, I barely noticed doing it. I entered the barn through the middle entryway and turned left. I pressed the light switch as I passed it to turn on the lights in that half of the barn. I was the first one there. But I wasn’t alone. At the stables, you never were.

As I walked over to Mickey’s stable, I took great joy in hearing nothing but the munching of hay. It’s one of the most meditative sounds in the world. So much peace. So much calm. So much contentment. Even in my distressed state that morning, I was still able to enjoy it.

As I got to Mickey’s stable, I looked over the door to see his two beautiful black ears lower down. He was munching away on his hay that lay on the floor. He turned to look at me, surprised, as if to say, “What are you doing here at this hour?”. I opened his stable door and went in to stroke his neck.

“Hi baby boy. Big day today,” I whispered into his ear. He listened. He nuzzled my hand and we had a quiet moment to ourselves. Moments like these are the ones I live for. Just him and me. Together. Fully present. But I didn’t have much time to indulge myself in that. At least not today. I reached to the other side of the stable door to grab his neatly hung black head collar that matched his beautiful black coat. He stood still as I secured it onto him. How lucky was I to have found him? He was the kindest, gentlest, softest horse I’d ever known. Even at his very young age, he was already like this. Always placing his big kind heart and trust in me. It really humbled me.

One by one, I picked his hoofs up, cleaning them carefully. I used the hook of the hoof pick to meticulously clear the shavings, the poo, and anything else that was stuck in his hoof. I used the brush side to gently brush the frog, the sensitive, inner part of the hoof. All seemed to be in good order. I let out a silent sigh of relief. I opened the stable door and led him out. As we walked towards the grooming bay, we passed his big brother Ollie who was actually a lot smaller in size.

They weren’t brothers by blood but they were both my horses so that is how I saw them. Having sensed my presence, Ollie had his head already over the stable door. I stopped to give him a quick cuddle. Mickey waited next to me patiently. Until he didn’t. He nudged me on my arm as if to say, “Shouldn’t we get ready now?”. I smiled and nodded to myself.

I walked over to the grooming bay, turning him around in it so he faced the hallway and not the wall. Horses, being very claustrophobic, are always calmer when they know there is a way out. Facing him this way is more comfortable for him and safer for me. I attached both sides of his head collar to the long ropes on the sides of the grooming bay. He quickly took a relaxed stance, resting his back leg and slightly lowering his head. How could a four-year-old be this calm and trusting? I grabbed my plaiting kit and stepped onto the steps to get higher up to his mane. I didn’t want my arms being fatigued from plaiting so I needed to be above the mane, not underneath it. Mickey being 173 cm tall at the withers meant I definitely needed to take a few steps up. He looked at me sideways as I rose above him. I talked to him gently whilst rubbing his neck. He seemed to approve and turned his head straight back into his relaxed state. Perfect, I could get to work now.

I separated his mane into 13 equal sections, ensuring the parting between each section was exactly straight. I wrapped each section in a black plaiting band and checked that the sections were all of equivalent size. Nodding approvingly, I started to braid. I braided as up and as tight as possible, but not so tight that it disturbed Mickey. It was a fine line to walk but he was clear in his opinions then and always has been ever since. Once I’d finished the braids, it was time for the trickier part: to roll them into neat, cinnamon bun look-alike plaits.

Again, this was a precise art. The rolling had to be accurate and snug or it would quickly fall apart. At the same time, it couldn’t be so snug that it would pull Mickey’s mane, creating tension in the muscles in his neck. Fortunately, I’d had a lot of practice and some great teachers. Once the roll was complete, I carefully used a thick black cotton thread and a plaiting needle to sew it into its place. It was the more complicated way of plaiting but I’d always found the end result so much more beautiful. So we carried on. After about thirty minutes, the plaits were done. I was happy with how they looked.

I descended down from the steps and gave Mickey a treat. He was a true champ for standing still for so long. I carried on to groom his coat, condition his tail, and oil his hooves. He was now starting to also look like a champ. Ouch, there were the butterflies in my tummy again. Having been so focused on the plaiting, I’d kind of forgotten about them. Oh well. I just had to carry on. We were nearly there.

I popped his smart show rug on and put him back in his stable so he could have his breakfast grains before we left. I checked the horse truck and ensured his tack, my gear, and the first aid kit were all in place. I put up a haynet for him to enjoy during the drive and packed an extra one for the drive back. Once he’d finished eating his grains, my trainer Sarah and her partner David, whose stables we were at, showed their faces. Sarah was coming with us to help us warm up before our test. Honestly, I think she was coming to keep me rather than Mickey in order. David was the designated horse truck driver and he never let us down with his jokes. This was especially good on a day like this.

“Are you ready?” Sarah asked.

“As ready as I’ll ever be,” I smiled weakly.

I went back into Mickey’s stable to put his travel boots on. He looked at me a little nervously and I handed him another treat in a vote of confidence. He took it gladly. I lead him out of the stable and onto the big horse truck. He walked onto it as if he’d done it a hundred times before. In reality, you could probably count on one hand how many times he’d been in one. But it didn’t faze him. Like always, he trusted me to keep him safe.

It was now about 5.30 a.m. We were on the road and the drive to the competition venue took about an hour. I was scheduled to enter the ring as the first rider of the day at 8 a.m. sharp. We had plenty of time. I don’t know if that was a good or a bad thing. More time for me to panic, to stress, to imagine total fail scenarios. But I did my best not to. Instead, I kept chewing my mint chewing gum which helped against my nervous nausea. In between my chews, I did my best to close my eyes and take deep breaths. Before I knew it, we were already there.

I checked on Mickey before going to check the warm-up and competition arenas. If I was nervous before, I was a nervous wreck now. I tried to walk it off and I kept taking deep breaths. Once I started tacking Mickey up, I felt slightly better. Staying busy always helped me with my nerves. Once I’d finished tacking up, I went to put the final pieces of my gear on. Now, I felt a little faint. I took a moment to sit in the living part of the truck with my head in between my legs. Come on, Susanna. There is no need for you to be this nervous! I nodded my head in agreement with my inner voice and got up.

Read more: "Horse Girl, A Journey Home" an Excerpt from the Book

Monty Roberts changed the world of horse training with his gentle approach. He believes that violence is not the answer. His relationship with Queen Elizabeth impacted the equestrian world. Stay tuned for updates on where to watch this film. Visit Monty Roberts online.

By the EIE Editorial Staff

A long-time equestrian remembered her first time picking up a mallet in Florida for her first polo lesson. Galloping down an immaculately groomed field on a well-trained pony with the Argentine pro was a thrill – and she knew she found her favorite sport. Quickly hooked, she developed her skills and spent her spare time going to the fields to “stick and ball,” while meeting other players who shared her thrill when they found polo

There are many reasons why polo can be so much fun to play, despite its challenges and risks. Here are some of the key factors.

Thrill and Excitement

• Fast-paced action: Polo is a dynamic and fast-paced sport, with players galloping across the field and hitting the ball at high speeds. This can be incredibly exhilarating and provide a real adrenaline rush.
• Competition and strategy: While polo requires individual skill, it's a team sport, and strategizing together and working towards a common goal with your teammates adds another layer of excitement.
• Unpredictability: The fast pace and the involvement of animals make every game unique and unpredictable. You never know what might happen next, keeping you on the edge of your seat.

Challenge and Mastery

• Physical and mental demands: Polo requires a combination of athleticism, coordination, horsemanship, and strategic thinking. Mastering these skills and improving your game can be very rewarding.
• Horse-human connection: Building a strong bond with your polo pony and learning to communicate with it effectively is a unique and satisfying experience.
• Constant learning: Even the most experienced polo players are always learning new things and refining their skills. The constant challenge to improve can keep you motivated and engaged.

Social and Community Aspect

• Camaraderie and sportsmanship: Polo fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among players, both teammates and opponents. The shared love of the sport and the respect for each other's skills create a strong community.
• Social events and traditions: Polo is often associated with social events and traditions, such as post-game gatherings and divot stomping, which adds to the fun and social aspect of the sport.
• Unique lifestyle: Participating in polo can open doors to a unique lifestyle filled with beautiful horses, stunning settings, and exciting events.

Overall, polo is a demanding and potentially dangerous sport, but it's also incredibly rewarding for those who embrace the challenge and appreciate the unique combination of skill, strategy, and excitement that it offers. The thrill of the game, the connection with horses, the camaraderie among players, and the constant opportunity for learning and improvement all contribute to making polo a truly fun and unforgettable experience.

Interested in playing polo or attending a match? Check out our POLO page and enjoy!

You can find more interesting stories in our section on Recreation & Lifestyle.

By Nevena Christi

The Not-So-Coy Fish Boot has a funny story. The bar next door started having very loud music every weekend and I couldn’t sleep! There is never time to make Boss Lady Boots at work, so I decided I would make my own boots at home. I got myself a pair of noise cancelling headphones and snacks, because if you are gonna be up ‘til 3am, why not have a little fun? In five weeks, or what would have been five hellish weekends, I came into the shop with completed flat pieces of my boots. My employees laughed, “Fish boots?! Ha-Ha!” They didn’t understand my love of Japanese art. So I basically said, “Let’s just do it and do it with a high heel!”

When they were done, I took them on their maiden voyage to New York where I was approached at a restaurant by one of the editors of Vogue and asked, “Where did you get your fabulous boots from?” Because of those boots, Vogue did a story on our boots and I got compliments wherever I went.

When I returned home, I rejoiced that the Fish Boots the guys laughed at were the same boots that were the talk of the town. Our customers think of our boots as big pieces of jewelry. They are wearable art and they are a great conversation piece. You never know who you are going to meet in your Rocketbusters!

You can find Rocketbuster Boots in our section on Riding Apparel Boots.

This article originally appeared on ShopTalk! Magazine and is published here with permission.

There are more interesting articles in our section on Recreation & Lifestyle.

Planning a visit to the Kentucky Horse Park soon? This short video will help you plan your day and guide you through the Park. For full details including showtimes and admission visit them at www.kyhorsepark.com

Read more: Welcome to the Kentucky Horse Park!

By the EIE Editorial Staff

The good news is that equestrian activities can be enjoyed equally by everyone. In fact, equestrian events are the only Olympic events where men and women compete directly against each other equally. This includes dressage, eventing and show jumping. There are no separate men's or women's divisions as the competitions are simply open to everyone!

The landscape of LGBTQ+ friendliness in the equestrian world is complex and multifaceted. There are promising signs of inclusivity, but also room for improvement and ongoing challenges. Here's a nuanced perspective.

Positive points

• Gender neutrality: Equestrian is one of the few sports where competition isn't segregated by gender. Men and women compete head-to-head at all levels, creating a naturally more inclusive environment.
• Strong community: Many within the equestrian community are known for their welcoming and supportive nature. Shared passion for horses often transcends other differences, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
• Visible LGBTQ+ presence: Prominent LGBTQ+ Olympians and professionals in the sport, like Carl Hester and Robert Dover, contribute to normalization and acceptance.

Challenges and areas for improvement

• Rurality: The predominantly rural nature of equestrianism can expose LGBTQ+ individuals to rigid attitudes and limited diversity.
• Visibility: While acceptance is growing, LGBTQ+ riders may still face subtle prejudice or feel pressure to downplay their identities.
• Bullying and harassment: Incidents of discrimination and bullying, though isolated, are still reported within the community.

While the equestrian world offers considerable promise for LGBTQ+ individuals, it's not without its challenges. Continued efforts towards education, inclusivity, and combating discrimination are necessary to create a truly welcoming environment for all.

It’s not accurate to label entire equestrian disciplines as definitively "more" or "less" LGBTQ+ friendly. Each discipline, and indeed each individual barn or riding center within those disciplines, can vary greatly in their level of inclusivity and welcoming atmosphere.

However, there are some trends and resources that can help you find LGBTQ+ friendly equestrian environments.

Promising indicators

• Organizations and initiatives: Look for barns or riding centers involved with organizations like Equestrian Pride or Horse Equality that actively promote LGBTQ+ inclusion within the equestrian community.
• Visible diversity: While not foolproof, noticing diverse riders and instructors at a barn can be a positive sign of an inclusive environment.
• Open communication: Don't hesitate to directly ask about a barn's policies and commitment to inclusivity. A welcoming barn will be happy to answer your questions honestly.

Additional resources

• LGBTQ+ equestrian communities: Online groups and forums can connect you with other LGBTQ+ riders and offer valuable insights into specific barns or disciplines.
• Recommendations and reviews: Ask fellow riders, trainers, or local tack shops for recommendations of inclusive barns or riding centers. Online reviews can also offer clues about a barn's atmosphere.

Ultimately, the best way to find an LGBTQ+ friendly equestrian environment is to trust your gut and seek out places that feel welcoming and respectful. Remember, you deserve to feel comfortable and supported while pursuing your passion for horses.

Here are some additional tips for creating a safe and inclusive space for yourself in any equestrian setting:

• Be open and authentic about yourself.
• Speak up if you experience any discrimination or harassment.
• Support other LGBTQ+ riders and allies.
• Advocate for inclusivity within the equestrian community.

Remember, fostering a welcoming and respectful environment for everyone is what truly matters, and you can play a role in making the equestrian world more inclusive for LGBTQ+ individuals.

You can find more interesting stories in our section on Recreation & Lifestyle.

By the EIE Editorial Staff

Today, there are over 400 recognized horse breeds in the world. Each breed has its own unique characteristics and abilities. This diversity of breeds allows people to choose the perfect horse for their individual needs and interests.

First, it's important to understand that the terms "hot-blooded," "warm-blooded," and "cold-blooded" in the context of horses don't refer to their actual body temperature, as all horses are mammals and naturally warm-blooded. Instead, these terms are informal designations used to group different breeds based on their temperament and physical characteristics.

Here's a breakdown.

Hot-blooded horses

• Characteristics: Energetic, spirited, athletic, sensitive, often high-strung.
• Breeds: Arabian, Thoroughbred, Akhal-Teke.
• Examples: Racehorses, show horses, endurance horses.

Warm-blooded horses

• Characteristics: Combine athleticism of hot-blooded horses with the calmness and strength of cold-blooded horses.
• Breeds: Hanoverian, Dutch Warmblood, Holsteiner, Trakehner.
• Examples: Dressage horses, show jumping horses, eventing horses.

Cold-blooded horses

Characteristics: Calm, docile, powerful, strong, good stamina.

It's important to remember that these are generalizations, and individual horses within each category can vary in temperament and personality. There are also many other breeds that don't neatly fit into these categories.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

• The terms "hot-blooded" and "cold-blooded" are not widely used in scientific literature.
• The origins of these terms are not entirely clear, but they likely arose from comparisons of different horse breeds in terms of their energy levels and suitability for different purposes.
• Some newer and mixed breeds defy these traditional classifications, blurring the lines between hot-blooded, warm-blooded, and cold-blooded horses.

The development of the large number of breeds is due to many factors, including:

• Geography: Horses were first domesticated in Central Asia, but they quickly spread to all corners of the globe. As horses adapted to different climates and terrains, their physical characteristics began to diverge. This led to the development of different breeds of horses in different parts of the world.
• Human use: Humans have bred horses for a variety of purposes, including transportation, warfare, agriculture, and sport. This has led to the development of breeds that are specialized for different tasks. For example, draft horses are bred for strength, while racehorses are bred for speed.
• Personal preference: People have different preferences when it comes to horses. Some people prefer horses of a certain size, color, or temperament. This has led to the development of breeds that appeal to different people's tastes.

The diversity of horse breeds is a testament to the adaptability and versatility of the horse. Horses have played an important role in human history for centuries, and they continue to be valued companions and working animals today. There is a horse for every type of rider at every level for every interest. Horses are as individual as we are and when chosen wisely, can make wonderful partners!

You can find more interesting stories in our section on Recreation & Lifestyle.

By the EIE Editorial Staff

The holidays can be a myriad of mixed emotions for many of us. While joyful traditions abound, stress, loneliness, and emotional strain can also come along for the ride. It's in these moments that horses can become unexpected allies, offering unique ways to navigate the holiday season's ups and downs. Here are some ways horses can help us cope.

Comfort and Companionship

• Non-judgmental presence: Horses offer a sanctuary of unconditional acceptance. Just spending time with them, grooming, or quietly sharing their company can be incredibly calming and grounding.
• Mindfulness in motion: Activities like trail riding or even grooming require focus and presence in the moment, taking our minds off worries and letting us appreciate the simple act of being with another creature.
• Physical touch and connection: Stroking a horse's soft coat or feeling their steady rhythm during a ride can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and relaxation.

Stress Reduction and Grounding

• Physical activity: Spending time caring for horses or riding can be a great way to burn off holiday stresses and pent-up energy. Fresh air and exercise also boost endorphins, our natural mood elevators.
• Mindfulness practice: Activities like meditating with horses or simply observing their calm presence can be powerful tools for practicing mindfulness and reducing anxiety. Horses' natural rhythm and focus on the present moment can guide us to do the same.
• Nature connection: Being around horses puts us in touch with the natural world, offering a sense of peace and perspective that can be particularly valuable during busy holiday seasons.

Therapeutic Support

• Equine therapy: For those struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, equine therapy can offer a unique and powerful form of support. Working with horses in a therapeutic setting can build self-esteem, improve communication skills, and promote emotional well-being.
• Volunteer opportunities: Spending time caring for horses at rehoming centers or therapeutic riding programs can be a meaningful way to give back to the community and find purpose during the holidays.

Of course, the way horses help us cope is as individual as the bonds we build with them. But whether it's through their quiet companionship, the joy of riding, or the therapeutic benefits of equine programs, horses can undoubtedly add a unique and positive dimension to our holiday experience.

So, if you're feeling overwhelmed or disconnected this holiday season, consider reaching out to a horse friend. You might be surprised at the solace and support they can offer.

You can find more interesting stories in our section on Recreation & Lifestyle.

By the EIE Editorial Staff

Horses have a magical way of bringing joy into our lives, and the new year is a perfect time to explore new possibilities and deepen your connection with them. Here are some ways horses can add a splash of happiness to your 2024.

New Adventures

• Learning a new skill: Find a trainer and take up Western riding, learn to jump, or master dressage movements. Challenging yourself and expanding your horsemanship skills can be incredibly rewarding and bring a sense of accomplishment.
• Exploring new trails: Venture out to unfamiliar territories with your horse and discover hidden gems like scenic trails, quiet meadows, or peaceful woodlands. The change of scenery and fresh air will do wonders for both of you.
• Participating in equine events: From local trail rides to competitive shows, joining organized events adds social interaction, excitement, and a chance to bond with other horse enthusiasts.

Deepening Existing Bonds

• Invest in quality time: Dedicate more time to simply being with your horse. Grooming, hand-grazing, or quiet walks together can strengthen your connection and foster deeper understanding.
• Focus on communication: Learn to read your horse's subtle cues and body language. The ability to communicate without words opens doors to a beautiful language of trust and mutual understanding.
• Celebrate small victories: Every step forward, every mastered trick, every successful ride is worth celebrating. Recognize your progress and the efforts you both put in, fostering a positive and joyful environment.

Personal Growth and Wellbeing

• Equine therapy: If you're looking for personal growth or coping with challenges, consider equine-assisted therapy programs. Horses can provide unique insights into your emotions and behaviors, fostering self-awareness and positive change.
• Volunteer opportunities: Sharing your love for horses by volunteering at rescue centers or therapeutic riding programs is a fulfilling way to connect with the community and experience the joy of giving back.
• Mindfulness practice: Use your interaction with horses as a gateway to mindfulness. Focus on the present moment, feel the connection with your equine partner, and let worries dissipate in the calm rhythm of their presence.

Remember, the specific ways horses bring you joy will be unique to your journey. Embrace the possibilities, be open to new experiences, and let your passion for horses guide you into a joyful and fulfilling new year.

Most importantly, have fun! Enjoy the time you spend with your horse, celebrate their quirks and triumphs, and let their spirit guide you towards a happier and more fulfilling 2024.

You can find more interesting stories in our section on Recreation & Lifestyle.