We're fortunate to have a great team of people at Moreton Show who work hard to make our show a success. In our latest series 'Moreton Show People' - we meet our fun-loving and enthusiastic Horse Committee chairman,Trevor Clarke.
Tell us about your first horse or pony?
He was a Dale’s pony called Simon. He and I spent most of the summer holidays riding out from home, high up on the North York Moors. Usually, I rode without a saddle and thankfully, he had a brilliantly long mane which helped keep the midges off.
Why do you love horses and the equestrian life?
Horse are loyal and all try their hardest for you. They’re communicative and they raise the spirits and calm the heart. There’s no better place to talk through your problems than when you are on the back of a horse. This quote from the famous Italian Thoroughbred breeder, Federico Tesio says it all: “A horse gallops with his lungs, perseveres with his heart and wins with his character.”
Who is your favourite horse? And why?
Can I choose one who is no longer with us please? For it must be The Polar Bear, who only recently died. I had him from a four-year-old, he was a Champion Working Hunter, went on to event for the Swedish team and then became my hunter. He looked after me every time I went out, sometimes putting in a cheeky buck to make sure I was concentrating.
What and where was the best horse ride you’ve been on?
A three-week ride up through the Wakhan Corridor - a narrow strip of territory in Afghanistan, extending to China and separating Tajikistan from Pakistan and Kashmir. I rode the northern route which led up the valley of the Pamir River to Zorkul Lake, then east through the mountains to the valley of the Bartang River, finally across the Sarikol Range to China.
What’s your favourite equine discipline and why?
National Hunt racing because the horses are doing what they like the best, galloping and jumping.
Which horse would you love to own?
Pegasus - then I’d face no more airport queues!
Which rider do you most admire?
The youngsters, who on their first lesson at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), have the courage to get up onto a horse. The freedom they find never leaves them.
Do you have a favourite film or TV show which features horses?
A programme produced by Yorkshire Television called “Follyfoot”. I can still sing the theme tune!
What do you love most about the horse section at Moreton Show?
That is simple - my team of stewards and Jess from the office. Without them, there wouldn’t be a show and, most importantly, we laugh all day! Bless them all.
