Editorial: Horse show buries some stereotypes

Kevin Hansen's departure is "foreboding".

Most stereotypes are myth-based, with a kernel of truth.

Accordingly, here's a few observations from my time spent at the Horse of the Year (HOY) show last week.

Horsemanship is formulaic.

Not a chance. Some riders are ethereal (I'm thinking Katie Laurie) and in full cry look as though they're atop the mythical Pegasus. Others muscle their steeds over obstacles like a marauding Genghis Khan.

Horses are beautiful.

Indeed, especially if they're riderless. Our form atop their spines spoils the handsome contour.

Horses are graceful.

Sometimes. Three days ago I saw an entire row of steeds, heads protruding from stables, violently spook in unison. Histrionics and half a tonne of might makes for a scary marriage.

Horsey people are odd.

Yes, and no. When they dress, they don nothing but smart-equine. For instance, most riders continue to wear their helmets whether they're on a horse or not, even when they're eating hotdogs. Of course, they're only strange because we don't know them.

Horsey people are rich.

Don't know. But if they are, they don't flinch when stepping in manure. The affluent have no qualms with effluent. Many boast bloodlines to the established rich and yes, this past week the showgrounds turned a tad Notting Hill. But much of the disparaging comment I'd suggest stems from the culture of envy.

Either way, if there was a reason the show remains grounded in spite of the stereotypes, look no further than 17-time director, Kevin Hansen.

Interfacing between the equestrian elite and those unschooled in the way of the saddle is his forte.

He's the reason HOY doesn't preclude the hoi polloi.

His departure is foreboding. Let's hope those who claim the Horse of the Year (Hawke's Bay) Limited board has looked a gift horse in the mouth, are wide of the mark.