As we Equestrians go on our merry way through life, the amount that we can have equines as part of our lives ebs and flows. Different circumstances early, mid and late in life all contribute to not only the possibility of having any equids, but also the amount of time and energy we can spend doing things with them. There is nothing revolutionary about this fact, just as this can be a reality with anything. But it is important to recognise and adapt to this if you intend on being a dedicated Equestrian during your entire life.
In the early years it can be difficult to have the amount of equine fulfilment that we desire, because most of the control in this department falls to our parents. There can be obvious financial and environmental barriers that can make having a horse of our own, or even just having lessons near impossible. I was lucky enough that between my Mum, Dad and Nan & Pops, that I could have a few horses of my own over my childhood and teen years, (two of which I still have today). I was able to go to Pony Club after enjoying a School Gymkhana so much, and compete all over the countryside of Central NSW. This unfortunately is not possible for everyone, and some people don’t even have an interest, or get exposed to equines early on. Either way I am very grateful I have had the opportunities I have had so far.
As high school & tertiary education heighten in the time and effort they require, and full time jobs are embarked on, some of us even meet the love of our lives around these years, and the ultimate endeavour to have/keep our Equine Companions becomes really difficult. Having the time to ride and compete becomes an utter luxury! Sponsored riders first have to gain sponsors to be able to keep afloat without the wages from another job, and some continue to have day jobs or run Equestrian Centres to make ends meet.
For Mum & Dads another later of unlikely arrives when kids come into the fold, and take up yet more time and effort. The practicality of having equines around kids doesn’t float every couple’s boat, and sometimes this is a popular time for a hiatus.
Once the kids have flown the coop, or an opportunity to step back from full time employment raises it’s head, equines can quite often make a comeback into our lives. Some dedicated men and women continue with the way of life right to the their very last second of life. There are numerous 80 & 90 year olds still riding and even competing becasue they absolutely love it!
Either way Living Equine is hard yakka, and can quite often mean alot of other sacrafices in other aspects of one’s life to make it possible all the way through. The shear dedication, passion and love tends to be what drives so many people wordwide to continue calling themselves Equestrians from the day that they start, to the day that they die.
Feature Image courtesy of Thrive Global.
– Skye Pickering Dip. Horse Business Management.