Step It Up

At the gym, as I was making my usual feeble attempt at step class this morning, I was amazed to see two horses walking by the window. I was amazed for a couple of reasons. One being that the horses were untethered and should not have been walking past the window. And the other was because they looked far too frisky for that hour of the day.

I must admit to having a little discomfort around horses. This concern I have is probably based around the fact that being as vertically challenged as I am, standing close to any one of these animals makes me feel rather vulnerable. I was not brought up with horses and have had only one riding experience (in my tender youth) I would rather forget. That does not mean I dislike our four legged friends, it’s just that I prefer two legs and without hooves.

Now there are a lot of people in our area who are horse mad, and I believe may at times suffer a sort of equine fever. Whether for club, competition, or casual enjoyment, some riders take their mounts and their equipment very seriously. Per capita, I would think we have a good proportion of equestrians, and of course the area to allow for it. The region provides both beach and bush areas ideal for riding or trekking, and according to our local information booklet, the local Ngati horses are famous for their quiet nature and sure-footedness in steep inland country.
It is not uncommon to hear clip, clopping around some of the streets within the township and of course evidence remains of where they have been. There is many a keen gardener who is very happy to fertilise their plots with what is left behind.

The pinnacle of horsiness in Opotiki, politically correct or not, is the annual, late in December, rodeo. It’s very popular and attracts several thousand viewers. We are part of the National Rodeo Circuit, and fans and participants have a fun filled day oohing and aahing at the antics of man and beast.

Now let’s face it there are not too many gyms that you go to that will have a view of such equine agility so close at hand. And here the costs to workout and keep trim are very affordable; you can see the sunrise through the exercise room window (post horses) and on Wednesday’s you can step it up to another level.
Willie Apiata V.C as a young lad in Te Kaha, with beloved horse Blaze