Project Runaway

As part of my ongoing commitment to experience all things Italian, I coerced Luc into going horseback riding with me this week. We were picked up and taken to a private stable in the Tuscan hills. There we met the warm and welcoming Franco. This was not a touristy commercial trail ride business, these were not old raggedy horses, these were young healthy beautiful horses. There were no waivers and no helmets, which made me squeamish a bit at first.Luc’s was a young Andalusian stallion, a Spanish breed, with a beautiful shiny brown coat and a name so long that I can’t recall it. Luc got on and was immediately a natural, I could see his inner cowboy come out.Mine was a white Spanish mare named Isabella and had a mind of her own to say the least. I, who have never been on a horse before, was a little taken aback by Isabella’s stubborn streak, but Franco’s guidance and instructions made me feel at calm and at ease.

We rode around for about an hour in 30+ heat and then returned to the stables. As Luc was trotting and cantering with his horse, Franco suggested that Luc try and gallop. He also had suggested that I could try galloping my horse but that was just crazy talk. Luc rode into the ring and then Franco instructed him on how to gallop and control the horse. I sat on the fence trying to stay away from a ghostly eyed mini stallion who was trying to chew on me, so that I could watch Luc. I have to say I was bursting with pride. He rode effortlessly, and with confidence.

Cowboy Luca

After, we helped take off the saddles and brushed our horses down and then took them to the pasture. When Luc’s stallion was let in, he shot off at a full gallop and it was one of the most beautiful things I have seen. They are amazing creatures and I know now that I would like to ride more and perhaps take lessons back in Canada.

The Lesson