Friday, June 04, 2004
So what’s the draw with hitching horses? I'm writing this tonight because its 2 weeks out to our first show of the season. As I'm sitting here winding down for the evening I am reflecting on all the chaos that has been going on around here while we scurry to get all the unending equipment out, repaired and cleaned. I'm so exhausted that I ask myself, why am I doing this? Even as I think it, I know the answer all to well....It’s all about family, good friends and of course draft horses.I use to show light horses in my younger years. Showing light horses was very competitive both in and out of the ring. Having the latest fashions, equipment or horse in vogue played a roll in doing well there. You wont find that holding true with drafts. Clean, safe equipment and well-trained quality animals are what counts in the draft horse ring. But thats not the reason behind all the work required to get to the show ring.
I much prefer draft horses because of their power, grace and kindness which is reflected in the people that love them. The comradely between draft horse competitors is one that I frankly have not ever come across in light horse competitions. It’s all business in the ring but outside it’s a different story. Families gathering around campers (some with 3 generations representing their clan), sharing dinner while chatting about horses, showing and catching up in general. It’s a relaxed environment that feels more like camping then showing. Everyone is friendly and all the kids play and enjoy the company of other draft horse family’s kids. Good hearted teasing and boasting about ones animals and respective placings are common. Then there is the tomfoolery that runs ramped as one day turns into the next. Draft horse people in general are outgoing, generous and caring people. The good friends that I have made by being involved with draft horses are people that I am proud to call friends. I value their friendship and cherish the time that we are able to spend together sharing our love of horses. The wholesome environment has made a significant impact on our family by keeping our child busy enjoying the outdoors and engaged with caring for the horses and helping out in the barn. It has also taught her that hard work put in training and working with the horses at home is required to be able to do good at shows. I can’t imagine our lives without our draft horses and I look forward to the impending show season as it draws closer even if it means that I'm exhausted at the end of the day. The hard work put in is well worth the return that is received by the enrichment that it brings to our lives and thats what hitching horses is all about.
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