THE CEBUANO HORSEMEN
We have these animal lovers who gather periodically to spend time with each other and share stories about their favorite winding mountainous paths, and their galloping steeds of the plains of Cebu
Since time immemorial, horses have been a constant companion to humankind.
In ancient civilization, these trusty creatures have been used to transport goods of merchants across continents and empires. They were the stars of chariot races and, sadly, suited up for battles.
Meanwhile, in mythology, we learned of gods and deities that harnessed the power of the winged counterpart Pegasus and of the fabled Trojan Horse which conquered the City of Troy.
In recent history, “Go West, young man” was the catalyst of a phrase that began the Westward expansion of America. How can we forget sites where horses grazed and replenished water, while men went to filled-to-the-brim bars and saloons in towns?
Horse-drawn carriages were the mode of transportation for royalty and aristocracy and the tradition continues through royal weddings.
These reliable steeds likewise play a key role in entertainment. We still see champions in the must-see-and-be-seen Ascot Races i n Windsor, England, while the Melbourne Cup remains a prestigious event. Even in polo matches staged globally, prized horses are transported in private planes just for this sport of the rich and the wealthy.
Calgary in Canada hosts an annual Stampede Rodeo, while the same traditions
---- with their own flair ---- are preserved in local venues such as the Province of Masbate in Masbate City or Malaybalay in Bukidnon.
As a child, when the circus came to town, as always, I loved the ponies which often jumped through hoops or simply straddled by the circus master.
I personally recall one wintry morning in Switzerland when these mounts ferried us, covered with thick blankets, to a hotel entirely made of snow, just outside Basel. We were a witness to the culture of gauchos in the wilderness of Buenos Aires, Argentina, where ranches and grasslands are still maintained.
And today, we have these animal lovers who gather periodically to spend time with one another and share stories about their favorite winding mountainous paths and their galloping steeds of the plains of Cebu. Are you ready to meet the Cebuano horsemen?