We probably made quite an amusing sight – a group of middle aged women (and a couple of their grown daughters) going horse riding for the first time!
And yes, it was our very first time – something from our bucket lists!
One of the girls had arranged it for her (belated) birthday treat, so that’s how we found ourselves on horseback for the very first time, several years ago.
I’d never really had much to do with horses, as a born and bred city slicker – even a brief stay at a farm had me freaked out beforehand!
However I was struck with how quickly a relationship can be built with our equine friends. No wonder animal assisted therapy and equine assisted learning are rising in popularity – both are a novel way to promote personal growth, healing, and a deeper connection with nature, without seeming like “therapy”!
A quick explanation of the basics and some safety information on horse riding for first timers, and we were introduced to our horses.
Meeting the Horses
“This is Gus,” said our instructor. “He’s a sweetheart and just loves cuddles – even more than food.” And sure enough, even as she spoke, Gus lowered his head and nuzzled lovingly into her neck, as we gasped with amazement.
Upon being introduced to “my” horse, Rennick, I was informed that he was a good boy but could be very stubborn (just what I needed – another stubborn male in my life!).
I quickly discovered they were right. Rennick dawdled along the trail, so the gap between us and the horse in front was constantly growing – despite my constant encouragement, kicks, and the attempts of the trail guides!
Throughout the ride, our guides kept us entertained with a bit of a running commentary about the horses – their personalities, some of the shenanigans they got up to, and the relationships they formed. You could see the staff had a very close bond with the animals.
We learned that Gus and Storm are the best of friends, and quick to defend the other if they think somebody (horse or human) is having a go.
Diva lived up to her name when she was younger, but mellowed with maturity. Diva adores her “husband”, but unfortunately he also has a mistress and on occasions will spend the majority of his time with her. Darling Diva gets so upset at being deserted, she goes right off her food – and three times now the vet has been called, only to diagnose her with depression! It seems that animals have feelings too!
Of course I couldn’t resist asking about my horse Rennick. In the words of the guide: “Rennick hangs out with the other bachelors, and like single guys everywhere, they all think they’re really something – but they really aren’t. Any time we get a new female horse she might spend maybe a day with the boys, before deciding, ‘Um, nooooo…'”.
I was vastly amused at hearing the antics of our mounts – it really does seem like horses are people too! I am beginning to understand why some people are as crazy about horses, as I am about kitties …
PS I really wish I had more photos to show you, but as a complete novice at all things horsey, I thought it was best if I didn’t try to take any snaps while I was actually on horseback 😉 .
Any other middle aged women out there keen to try horse riding for the first time – or are you experienced in all things equestrian?!
(This post was originally published in June 2015 – updated and revised January 2025)
There is a farm stay near me that lets you just ‘sit’ and interact with the horses without the riding. I’d like to try that maybe. There are a couple of horses where I live. One is seriously geriatric and a real trooper and just keeps on keeping on. His younger female companion gets anxious if there is a fence separating them. She must sense his fagility too. She hasn’t been ridden for years so she’d be too unsettled for anyone but the most experienced rider to get on her back. I round them up and yard them back home every evening.
Oh I like the sound of that Theresa. When you are a first time, city slicker like me, it does seem such a long way up when you are sitting on the horse’s back! And no matter how tame and placid they are, basically we are still dealing with a (wild) animal so it is still a bit scary!