It is probably fair to say that reality television would not be the same without Simon Cowell. Appearing in shows such as The X Factor, Britain's Got Talent, and American Idol, the brutally honest judge has raised some individuals to stardom – and perhaps dashed the dreams of many.
While we usually associate Mr Cowell with music competitions, the celebrity may soon be watching a different type of contest. Reportedly, he has recently become the owner of a racehorse.
The steed, a two-year-old thoroughbred, is allegedly called "It's A Yes From Me" and has been placed in the capable hands of James Fanshawe – a professional racehorse trainer.
Although Mr Cowell could almost certainly have afforded the 35,000 guineas needed to purchase the animal, television presenters Ant and Dec have been named as the co-owners. Between the three of them, I'm confident they have bought all the necessary equestrian gear, such as horse rugs, in order to keep the animal comfortable.
There are currently no reports as to when Mr Cowell's racehorse will actually be competing, but this is one animal that I will be watching with great interest. After all, the judge probably wouldn't have invested in it if he didn't believe it had talent.
Photo © rustyallie via Flickr under Creative Commons Licence

Labels: American Idol, Ant and Dec, Britain’s Got Talent, equestrian gear, horse rugs, James Fanshawe, racehorse, reality television, Simon Cowell, X Factor

It's not very often that I get to write a blog post about donkeys. Considering Simply Equestrian mostly deals with information relating to horses, such as advice about transportation, stabling, and proper equestrian clothing, these animals don't usually fall under our remit.
However, I recently came across a story in the Daily Telegraph which I just had to share – mostly because this particular donkey foiled a robbery.
According to the newspaper, this crime took place in a town called Juan de Acosta, located in the north Caribbean. The thieves plotted to rob a general store but they were lacking something to transport the goods – so they stole a 10-year-old donkey called Xavi.
After breaking into the store, the criminals had managed to take several items such as rum, oil, and rice. However, at some point during the theft it appears Xavi became distressed and started braying – attracting the attention of local police officers.
It seems the criminals had two choices; they could either stay with Xavi and the stolen goods or run before the police arrived.
They chose the latter.
After being taken to a police station, Xavi was eventually reunited with his owner. In addition, all the stolen goods were returned to the shopkeeper.
So, it seems this story has a happy ending for all those concerned. Well, except perhaps for the criminals. It looks like they really made asses out of themselves!

Photo © Jonathan.vail via Flickr under Creative Commons Licence

Labels: Daily Telegraph, donkey, equestrian clothing, horses, Juan de Acosta, north Caribbean, Simply Equestrian, stabling

Many people regard Valentine's Day as the most romantic time of the year. However, I would like to pose a quick hypothetical question – would you prefer to spend today with your partner or participate in horse riding?
Ok, have you decided? Well, if you chose the latter option, you have this is common with 72% of female riders.
After interviewing a selection of viewers, television channel Horse & Country also discovered some other interesting statistics. For example, it seems 75% of respondents were in somewhat of a relationship triangle – admitting to paying more attention to their animal than their partner.
In addition, a third of those polled intended to get their steed a present on Valentine's Day – perhaps they bought a new horse rug or bridle.
Equestrianism is a fantastic pastime, yet I can't help but feel sorry for the other people in these relationships. After all, I would feel quite annoyed if my partner chose to spend the day with their horse instead of joining me for a nice meal.
Consequently, I wish you luck with whatever you have planned for Valentine's Day – but I hope that your partner gets your undivided attention.
Photo © celynek via Flickr under Creative Commons Licence

Labels: bridle, equestrianism, Horse and Country, horse riding, horse rug, Valentine's Day

No-one ever wants to be involved in a riding accident. Potentially, these incidents can result in life-changing injuries which may prevent individuals from completing their usual day-to-day tasks. Fortunately, these situations are relatively uncommon – possibly because quality riding hats might stop owners from being seriously harmed.

One horse rider who recently had a lucky escape was glamour model Katie Price. Reportedly, while participating in show jumping, Katie suffered a fall. Logging onto Twitter, the model stated she was feeling sore and had suffered two broken nails during the incident.

If these are the extent of her injuries, then Katie is very fortunate. Although there are no reports as to what sort of equestrian clothing she was wearing at the time, this apparel may have prevented her from suffering more serious harm.

As horse riding is one of Katie's biggest passions, I doubt this fall will keep her out of the saddle for long. Especially as she might only require treatment from a qualified manicurist.

Photo © Adrian Parnham via Flickr under Creative Commons Licence

Labels: equestrian clothing, horse riding, Katie Price, qualified manicurist, riding accident, riding hats, riding injuries, saddle, show jumping, Twitter