8 Signs You Were Born to Be an Equestrian

Signs You Were Born To Be An Equestrian

“No hour of life is lost that is spent in the saddle.” If that Winston Churchill quote about horses hits you right in the soul, then you’re probably just like me – destined to be an equestrian from day one.

I grew up in a family that was obsessed with horses, and it was impossible not to fall in love with these incredible animals. Following that tradition has felt as natural to me as breathing.

If horses are always on your mind and in your heart, these signs might just prove you were always meant to be an equestrian.

You Long for Peaceful Time Spent at the Barn

If you were born to be an equestrian, then there is nowhere else you would rather be than with your horse. The time spent bonding with your horse is meaningful and something you value close to your heart. You don’t need to say anything to feel at peace, as your horse understands your love without words. The barn is where you truly belong.

You Feel A Special Connection with Horses

For many equestrians, the connection you share with your horse is unlike anything else. Many of us feel it is easier to connect with horses than with other people. The bond is one you cherish for life and is one of the most meaningful connections you will ever have. Many of us even consider our horse to be our best friend.

You Would Rather Muck a Stall Than Clean Your House

A girl stands in a barn at sunset, silhouetted against the light while preparing to muck out stalls. Horses can be seen in their stables, and a wheelbarrow and equipment are visible in the foreground. The soft golden light gives the scene a peaceful and hardworking atmosphere typical of barn life.

Some people are repulsed by the thought of having to muck a stall. However, for horse owners, it is often preferable over housework. Sure, it is dirty work, but you are doing it to care for your horse. Plus, it is additional time you are able to spend with your horse and it still beats washing dirty dishes!

You Find Freedom on the Back of a Horse

As Helen Thompson said, “In riding a horse, we borrow freedom.” For equestrians, the most freeing place to be is on the back of a horse. When riding, nothing else in the world matters. You are free from any worries, as only you and your horse matter at that moment. Nothing beats the feeling of your hair blowing in the wind as you canter in an open field.

You Love Challenges and Set Big Goals

Equestrians see challenges as opportunities to learn and build their skill set. Those born with a love for the sport will never pass up the opportunity to get in the saddle, even if the ride may be challenging.

Horse riders know that it will not be easy to meet their goals, but the reward of achieving your dreams with your horse is worth all of the hard work.

You Work Hard and Aren’t Afraid to Face Your Fears

Not everyone has what it takes to face their fears. However, equestrians are tough and put their fears aside, always ready to grab life by the reins (literally!). Being an equestrian is hard work, and you have to be born with the determination to succeed. 

You Love the Smell of Leather

Two girls, dressed in plaid shirts, lean on a fence in an arena, chatting and smiling while resting their horse saddles on the fence. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere captures a moment of companionship between riders, with the sandy ground of the riding area in the background.
CameraCraft / Shutterstock.com

There is just something so pleasant about the smell of leather. The smell of pristine leather that hits you when you walk into a tack store just can’t be beaten. If you prefer the smell of leather over fresh flowers, then you are definitely an equestrian!

You Don’t Mind Being Dirty

You know you were born to be an equestrian if you don’t mind being dirty. You don’t care if you smell like a horse, even if others notice. It doesn’t bother you if you have hay in your hair, mud on your boots, or horse slobber on your shirt, as these are signs of a day well spent.

Many people associate this passion and dedication with the archetype of the ‘horse girl’ – those who embrace every aspect of horse life wholeheartedly. If this sounds familiar, check out our horse girl article to see what defines a horse girl and why the term has become so popular.

That’s it for this one! Let me know in the comments if any of these signs resonate with you. Do you think you were born to love horses? I certainly know I was!

Christine Hirlehey has been the proud owner of Willowbrook Riding Centre since 1989, a well-respected horse riding school approved by the Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS) and licensed by Chichester District Council. She has ridden and owned horses throughout her adult life and is a certified horse riding instructor, having earned her BHS Horse Mastership accreditation in 1981 during her training at South Weylands Equestrian Centre in Surrey. With over 20 years of competitive experience in ridden Arabian showing classes, Christine has achieved numerous accolades, including her most memorable victory in the Ridden Arabian Horse Showing class at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in 1998 with her purebred Arabian, Double Magic. In addition to managing the daily operations of her riding school, she remains dedicated to riding and training horses and continues to participate in horse shows and events across the UK.

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