By Emma, Grey Draught Mare, Hayfield, near Aberdeen
Good morning, fellow equines! I'm Emma, a proud grey draught mare with a white mane and tail that blows in the Scottish breeze like a shimmering silver banner. It's a grand day for a blog post, the sun is shining and the fields are greening after a welcome rainfall. So, let me share with you a little snippet of my life in the year 0070.
As a draught horse, my days are often filled with hard work. It’s in my blood, you see, our ancestors toiled the fields and carried the burdens of mankind for centuries. It’s a life that can be demanding, but there’s a certain satisfaction in it. I’m strong, powerful, and built for the task, and there’s nothing like feeling the power of a good pull between the shafts of a plough, the feel of the soil beneath my hooves. I love being part of the larger farming picture, feeling like a true partner in producing the food that nourishes the village.
Our village, Hayfield, is a beautiful little place, nestled between rolling hills and a sparkling stream. The village is famous for its apple orchards, the trees stretching in a breathtaking symphony of green, red, and gold as far as the eye can see. In this year, we have a wonderful new apple variety, the ‘Hayfield Beauty’. The humans rave about its unique flavour and rosy hue. It’s lovely to think my hooves helped plant and tend those trees that produce such wonderful fruit. We also have several lovely mares that pull the carts around the market each Saturday.
As well as hauling heavy loads and pulling carts, I also enjoy being used for recreational purposes. Many families hire out draught horses like me to go on walks, pulling the children in light carriages along picturesque pathways through the countryside. I especially enjoy this in the spring, when the flowers are in full bloom, and the air is fragrant with sweet scents. The children’s laughter, the soft swish of the carriage on the ground, the gentle pull against my collar – it's all part of the pleasure of being a draught horse, feeling the trust placed upon me.
But the life of a draught horse in 0070 is not all hard work and responsibility. We do have our share of fun too! In Hayfield, there’s a lovely tradition: the annual horse races. Held on the 3rd Saturday in September, it’s an exciting spectacle that brings the village alive. Horses like me are trained to pull specially designed carts, called 'chariots'. These chariots are quite light and, with some training, a single horse can pull them, even racing against other horses pulling the same type of vehicle. It’s a joyous affair, with families picnicking under the sun, the scent of roasting chestnuts filling the air, and the cheering of the crowd urging us to do our best. The highlight is seeing the horses all galloping around the course in a magnificent display of power and agility, and the cheers grow deafening as the finish line nears. Although I'm more suited for strength work than racing, the thrill is palpable!
Of course, we’re not the only equine players in the world of 0070. The mighty Shire horses continue to be a staple in the heavy hauling industry, renowned for their majestic size and powerful strength. There's something deeply impressive about these majestic creatures, like moving mountains of muscle. You find them working on large farms, often hauling enormous loads of hay and grain, and helping with land preparation and construction work. You also find them, in smaller, more urban settings, in parks, gardens, and breweries – their powerful personalities adding character and majesty to any scene.
Then, we have our elegant cousins, the thoroughbreds, graceful and fleet of foot. They remain a favourite on the racetracks, the thrilling thrill of a tight race a sight that never loses its charm. The crowds go wild, their excitement a powerful wave as the steeds dash toward the finish line. I love watching those sleek athletes, and their fiery spirits, so different from my own.
The Arabs, a little like their cousins, the thoroughbreds, also hold their own in the racing arena, their grace and endurance well documented. Their beauty is breathtaking; the sleek, flowing lines of their coats, their spirited personalities – a joy to behold! They’ve made a special mark in the desert nations for centuries, their history linked to the Bedouins, the nomadic peoples of the Middle East. Even today, they're essential partners for traversing vast distances, providing companionship and transport.
But not every horse is used for work or sport, many find fulfilling lives within the community. There are ponies in the town squares, where children ride, laughing and learning, gaining confidence in their young lives. These ponies, despite their smaller stature, are gentle, patient, and loving. You can see the magic in their eyes as the children clamber onto their backs and laugh with joy, their bond an emblem of trust and friendship.
Even in the great cities, horses like me find places to contribute. Many horse-drawn carriages still take tourists on guided tours, highlighting historical landmarks and charming backstreets, offering a slower, more picturesque glimpse of the world. It’s always interesting to observe how horses like myself adapt to urban environments, their hooves finding a rhythm with the hustle and bustle of city life.
On Equiworld.org, there are a myriad of forums, sharing the latest trends in horsemanship, stable management, and equine health. I love reading through these, learning from other equines about different breeds, training methods, and the challenges of being a horse in an ever-changing world. It’s a comfort knowing we’re not alone, there’s a whole community of horse lovers, both human and equine, looking to create a brighter future for us.
Life for horses in 0070 is diverse, full of challenge and reward. It's a tapestry of toil and joy, of trust and camaraderie. The world has changed, but the enduring essence of the horse – its strength, intelligence, and beauty – remains a constant source of awe and inspiration. As I close for today, let me end on a heartfelt wish, that each of us, horse and human, will continue to foster respect and kindness for each other, celebrating our shared bond, one that stretches back to the dawn of time, a true testament to the unwavering power of our beautiful friendship.
Until next time, fellow equines! Stay strong, be happy, and enjoy the beautiful journey we're all on.
Emma, Hayfield, near Aberdeen
