VN October 2022

Vetnews | Oktober 2022 11 Article When the first horses arrive, we huddle as close to them as possible while doing the vet check to try and absorb some of their heat. At the end of each day, the veterinary meeting is where noteworthy cases and statistics about the day are shared. And then the camaraderie shared by the veterinarians at the end of the day around a coal stove or paraffin heater in very cold houses with a lot of load shedding. At the end of the Endurance Race, on Day Three, the triumphant 'Chariots of Fire' theme song is played for every horse as soon as they are sighted. It is as if time stands still for that horse and rider, the moment loaded with jubilation when everyone on the small pavilion cheers as the horses and their riders complete the race. And then the final vet-check where the emotions go from extremely tense to tremendous joy or bitter disappointment. And at the end of yet another Fauresmith, I say goodbye with many emotions. I am so happy to live in Africa and participate in this incredibly unique sporting event. I am so proud of our brilliant equine and human athletes. I am so proud of our superb veterinarians. Thank you to every person who makes Fauresmith Endurance Ride happen. v