Linda competed as a professional trainer and instructor for over 25 years. She specialized in jumpers and eventing while training in multiple disciplines throughout the equine industry..

Recently I enjoyed some of the best driving horses the world has to offer. Restored coaches are a sight, with matching teams of flowing animals. Stylish grooms playing brass horns complete the look, and fanciful dresses present the finest of tailgate parties. A twinge of awe ripples through the spectators, and the wow factor is always extremely high.

However, on the hottest day of this year so far, with a 7 mile drive about to start, most horsemen used great caution to let their steeds rest quietly under the trees. One leading competitor, often praised in horse magazines, chose instead to leave his horses bake in the sun. This went on for over an hour, as his large group partied happily nearby and spectators flocked about, taking photos of his rig.

After the marathon, one wheel horse stood drenched and quivering from the effort. Rapid respirations showed all was not well. Yet the driver’s largest concern seemed to be the admiration of the crowds. The struggling horse was ignored, waiting to again perform in a hot arena. The loudest voiced concern was if gin or vodka was to be served to the guests.

A true horseman? Hardly. While the horse certainly survived, those with a deeper understanding and basic horse sense would never have invited such a situation.