Meet a Globetrotter: Katie Fox
Answer me this, globetrotters: when do you ever get to do something that is just for yourself? I’m talking choosing to do something because YOU want to do it, not because a friend or family member has suggested it and wants to go with you, but because you are treating yourself for all your blood, sweat and tears over the years. Our next globetrotter we are profiling in our ‘Meet a Globetrotter’ blog series chose to join us on the Tassie Tiger Trail [edit: sadly no longer available] to treat herself for surviving some difficult circumstances and to reconnect with the person she used to be, with horses allowing her to relax and do just that. Here’s Katie Fox’s story…
What is your day job?
English and Humanities Teacher – secondary
How have horses influenced or changed your life?
Horses have been a major part of my life and my family. My grandpa was a jumps jockey and my uncle is a racehorse trainer. My Auntie is also a former jockey so horses have been a very big part of my life. Having and being around horses taught me so many skills like responsibility, patience and most of all love! I am sure my teenage years would have been very different if I didn’t have two horses to look after. My parents are very grateful also!
What is your earliest memory of horses?
Going to the racing stables as a very young child and patting all the horses.
What was your childhood pony called?
Brownie, he was 25 when I got him and I had him for 10 years until he passed away at the age of 35.
What does riding or being with horses mean to you?
Everything – it gives me a sense of freedom and allows me to relax. It’s my own personal meditation.
What have horses taught you the most?
Patience.
What Globetrotting ride have you completed?
The Tassie Tiger Trail [sadly no longer available].
What made you take the plunge and sign up for a Globetrotting holiday?
I never truly do anything that is exactly for myself, so it was the perfect opportunity to do so.
Was this ride celebrating or marking a significant moment/milestone/achievement in your life? And if so, would you mind sharing?
Really for me it was connecting with the person I was when I was riding all the time. After I left school and went to university, my priorities changed, but so did my life. During that time I also had a string of not too good relationships that I have been carrying around with me so this ride was a chance for me to really connect with the person who I used to be – it was nice to meet her again!
What was your most memorable moment from this ride?
Beach day!!!
Why choose this type of travel? As in exploring a new place from the back of a horse?
You really get to see everything. It is going back to basics and really stopping, looking at and appreciating your surroundings for what they really are.
A tip that every globetrotter should know before going on a ride…
Go in with the best attitude that you can! Be prepared for long days in the saddle and for sore bones and muscles, but at the end of the trip you will be sad it has ended, so work through the pain!
Finish this sentence – Don’t leave home without….
More socks and undies than you think you might need. If it rains, you will be glad you have lots of spares!