When I think about how we can expand the equine world one question comes to mind, which is one that I always get asked by my non-horse friends and people outside the equine community.

That question is “why do we do what we do?” Meaning the long hours, the expense, the injuries, and the highs and lows.

How do we explain all this to someone that doesn’t understand?

So with The Grassroots Gazette, how can we expand and explain our passion for all the equine world. So, what are the answers?

If we are to grow the equine community (which I really feel we need to), we need to open all aspects of our world to everyone.

Let the public see what our horses mean to us. Especially how the grassroots put absolutely everything into their horses and give up so much for the improvement of their horse.

I spoke on a live session with Shane and Mike about my willingness to drive 3hrs for vet care, I know am not alone on this front when it comes to caring for horses. Personally, I don’t think there are many other communities willing to put in as much time and effort as the equine community.

Not everyone in the world has been lucky enough to grow up with horses in their lives, so they don’t really understand the passion and love. I have been extremely lucky in that way by falling into horses at a young age and to have parents to back me for that journey, even with me taking a 10 year break, they still support me to this day, they still come and support me at most of my events. Even with not everyone in my family interested in horses we look at this as added family time.

We can be the traveling circus at times, but we wouldn’t change that for the world.

My answer to the question is to come along see what we do. Why not invite your friend along to the yard, events, or shows to give them experience with horses. I have, and this has given them a massive insight into my world. This has now led to some friends having a genuine interest in following horse sports or looking to get their kids involved.

I will always make myself available to talk or give any advice I can to anyone that’s thinking of starting up with horses. Without the grassroots & amateurs, there is no sport, we are the backbone of this industry, so welcome all new involvement and be an advocate for the equine world.

Now I challenge anyone that has horses or is lucky enough to be in the equine world, wants to make that change, and bring more people into our world. When you get asked that question you can offer your time, show your world to the outside, let them see everything the horse community has to offer.