Basil joined us in 2002 at the spritely age of 11, when he came on loan to my sister, Chloe. He’d had a fantastic start to his career, with a win at the Great Yorkshire Show as a yearling followed by several years of dressage training and competitions. Until, sadly, an injury to his hind legs put a halt to his budding dressage career.
Although he could no longer compete to a high level, Basil was more than capable of being a family pony for a horse-mad 8 year old! Over the years, Chloe and Basil tried their hands and hooves at dressage, show jumping, hunting and showing, even coming 6th place in their show jumping class at the Ultimate Showcase of Champions.
Soon, Chloe outgrew Basil, but we couldn’t bare to part with him! He owed us nothing after the years of fun he had given us, so we found him a new loaner. Then another, and another…
In 2009, our friend Cath started a pony club using Basil, and a few of our other ponies, where he taught countless children to ride. Elise was one of those pony clubbers and she loaned Basil for some time, taking him to dressage competitions and enjoying hacks out together.
Once pony club ended a few years later, Basil wasn’t getting any younger so he started taking it easier! Without a consistent loaner for him, I began riding him once a week to stretch his legs. It turned out he still had plenty in the tank and thoroughly enjoyed a hack out without having to be the sensible and reliable, plod-along pony!
Last year, my friend Gemma started taking Basil out once or twice a week either in-hand or ridden. He absolutely loves following Mocca around and quite often I have to push her on because Basil and Gemma are nose to tail with us!
After almost 19 years with us, Basil has earnt his retirement! He’ll spend the rest of his days plodding out once a week, while he can, and whinnying at us for his tea at every opportunity!
Happy Birthday Basil!
Sadie in the Saddle 