Experiences Adventure Experiences Gingers Horses
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Ginger Driver is one of those absolutely fabulous, warm comfy ‘earth people’ that you meet in your life and just love. She is spiritual, and you feel that you have met her before. She epitomises the rural ‘mamma’ that not only loves what she does for a living but also is utterly devoted to her brood of horses, all of whom are personalized. Jay, Kinta, Ti Ra, Lofty, and Martha, just a few that were introduced to us with a huge grin and she rattled on about their history and their manners. The Hillside farm is a melange of horses, dogs, cats, I am sure chickens too. Rambling gardens, dotted with bountiful colour and incredible displays of ancient bits and pieces along the stoep and best of all, the iron-roofed cottage. The lawns and paddocks are just the most amazing green, and of course the inscrutable forest that frames the property. “Three horse-crazy daughters started me off on this bridle path”, says Ginger. “I was so lucky to find this gorgeous farm and to live my dream here.” “I established this riding school about 17 years ago and am proud to say that many of my pupils, including my daughters have been in championship rides.” “We teach dressage and jumping, and cross-country.” Even my wonderful horses have been trained to championship level. She told us that the Eastern Cape Horse Society has awarded her a Life Service Award in recognition of her dedication and contribution to the youth of the Eastern Cape equestrian community. Twenty years in the saddle is a rare achievement indeed. They say that once you have ridden a horse, especially through magnificent forests, the memory will live with you forever. “My trails are what we promote right now; it’s a chance for everyone to explore the forest and ride horses!” Said Ginger. “Riding through perfect indigenous forests on horseback gives the visitors the chance to feel like part of nature. Imagine hearing the birds, the gentle swish of the leaves above you as you ride, and the pleasure you get, its like soul food for the weary.” “Horse trails take approximately two hours, and we can accommodate any level of horse riding proficiency”. “Oh and we spoil the riders too, lovely grub and drinks are set in the forest clearing and my guides are excellent as they are trained in first aid, and know an awful lot about nature.” Bragged Ginger with a wide smile. “In 2008 we became associated with the Escape Route, a local tourism initiative (supported by the EU). At present 5 trainees, local Xhosa girls are learning to become trail guides, incorporating all aspects of horsemanship, they are doing so well and I hope that this will not only enhance their lives, but give new meaning to their knowledge that they would not normally have the opportunity of experiencing.” “They are taught firstly to love their mounts, to clean, groom and care for them and in addition, to meet and mix with tourists.” Said Ginger. Contact Ginger on 082 682 6425 |