Jeu de Cheval. Hobart Horseplay

22/09/2024

Saturdays in the windy wind @ cheval

20/09/2024

Please can someone turn the wind OFF @ Tea Tree 🙏

19/09/2024

If a standardbred horse could speak after being adopted straight from the track, this is what it might want you to know:

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I Was Born to Run, but I Have So Much More to Give

My name? Well, it used to be something flashy, tied to my pedigree and potential, but now it’s just me—free from the expectations of the track. I’m a Standardbred, bred for speed, stamina, and a life on the racetrack. But today, as I stand here in this unfamiliar pasture, I want you to know a few things about me, my past, and what I dream of for the future.

I’m Not Just a Racer

Yes, I was born into a world of speed. My legs were trained to move in perfect rhythm, trotting or pacing down the track, my breath in sync with the pounding hooves around me. You might have seen me at my best—gliding down the track, all focus and energy. But what you didn’t see were the quiet moments: the times I longed for a hand on my muzzle, a calm voice, or a break from the endless routine of racing and training.

Now, I’m adjusting to this new life. The sights, the smells, the absence of the track. I’m more than just a racer. I can be a partner, a friend, and someone to share quiet moments with. I just need time.

I’m Learning What It Means to Be ‘Home’

Life on the track was fast-paced, and everything had a purpose. I was groomed, fed, and trained, all to get me ready for that next race. But here? Here, I’m learning a new rhythm. The world has slowed down. It’s not about who crosses the finish line first anymore.

It’s about waking up to birdsong, grazing in a field, and getting to know you. I don’t have to impress anyone here. I’m learning to understand your touch, your routine. I’ve never had this kind of life before, so please be patient with me while I figure out what "home" really means.

I Might Be a Little Nervous

The track was my whole world. The noise, the people, the other horses—it was chaotic but familiar. This new life? It’s beautiful, but it’s also strange to me. Sometimes, the quiet can make me uneasy. When you reach for me, I might flinch. It’s not because I don’t trust you—I just don’t know yet what comes next.

If I seem unsure, just know that I’m trying. I want to be the best I can be in this new chapter. With time, I’ll learn to relax. I’ll learn that this calm, quiet life is safe. I’m resilient, but I still need your patience.

I Have Strength Beyond My Speed

You’ve seen me run, so you know I’m fast. But there’s more to me than that. I’m strong, sure-footed, and capable. I might not be racing anymore, but I can still take you places—whether it’s out on a trail, or through fields, or simply by being by your side.

Give me a job, and I’ll put my heart into it. Standardbreds like me are adaptable. I can learn to pull a cart, carry a rider, or even just be a calming presence. I’m eager to find a new purpose with you, one that isn’t defined by time and speed but by trust and companionship.

I Want to Know You

The track was about routine, and while I had people around me, it wasn’t personal. I was part of a system, a machine built for winning. But now? Now, I want to know you. I want to learn your voice, your touch, the way you laugh when I nuzzle your pocket for treats. I’m ready for that connection, that bond I’ve heard other horses talk about.

When you take time with me, I’ll do my best to understand you. I’ll listen with my eyes, my ears, and my heart. I might not always get it right, but I’ll try.

I Have Scars, but They Make Me Stronger

Racing wasn’t easy. There were long days, hard races, and sometimes even falls. I have a few scars—some you can see, some you can’t. But they’ve made me who I am. I’m tougher because of them, but I’ve also learned the value of gentleness.

If I’m quiet or seem distant at times, it’s just because I’m still healing. But know that with your kindness, I’ll heal faster. I’ll learn to trust in ways I never have before.

I’m Ready for This New Life

I don’t know what the future holds, but I know I’m ready for it. The track was my past, but you? You’re my future. Whether we go for long rides or just share peaceful moments in the pasture, I’m ready to experience it all with you.

So here I am, a Standardbred no longer defined by the track, but by the life I’ll live with you. I have a lot to offer if you give me the chance. Together, we can make this new life everything we both dream of.

And maybe, just maybe, I’ll show you what true freedom feels like—not in the speed of my legs, but in the quiet connection of hearts.

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A standardbred off the track might not have words, but its heart speaks volumes. With patience, understanding, and love, you can help them transition from the fast-paced world of racing into a life filled with companionship, trust, and a new purpose.

17/09/2024

If you’re looking for a 24 hour experience this holidays, why not book the kids into an overnight camp?
So much fun to be had and friends to be made.
Beginners welcome!

16/09/2024

This school holidays there is something for everyone at Hobart Horseplay.
Short led rides are the perfect place to start for one and all- from first time riders through to seasoned equestrians who want to arrange a fun family experience.
Have a horse mad kid but no idea about horses? Do a short led ride!
Haven’t ridden in a few years and want to start up again? Do a short led ride!
Nervous in the saddle? Do a short led ride!
For the special school holiday price of $60pp (only during the term 3 school holidays) you can come and experience one of our most popular public programs.
(Dates are 2/10 and 9/10 (Wednesdays), and 3/10 and 10/10 (Thursdays))

Weekends might also be possible, contact us to ask 🙂

12/09/2024

Still some slots available in the school holiday programs! Book now

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAMS - SEP/OCT 2024

We are now taking bookings for the upcoming school holidays. All sessions are available to book online via the website at www.hobarthorseplay.com.au/school-holidays
You can also send us an email at [email protected] or call/text us at 0433806708 or 0437304410

MONDAYS (30th September/7th October)
3 hour program - 9am-12pm - $150
2 hour program - 1:30pm-3:30pm - $110

TUESDAYS (1st October/8th October)
2 hour program - 12:30pm-2:30pm - $110

WEDNESDAYS (2nd October/9th October)
2 hour program - 10am-12pm - $110
Short led ride special - 12pm-1pm: $60
**OVERNIGHT CAMP - 1:30pm Wednesday until 11am Thursdays - $300**

THURSDAYS (3rd October/10th October)
**CAMP COLLECTION 11am**
2.5 hour program - 12:00pm-2:30pm - $130
Short led ride special - 12:30pm-1:30pm - $60

FRIDAYS (4th October/11th October)
3 hour program - 11am-2pm - $150
**SADDLE CLUB CAMP : 1:30pm Friday until 11am Saturday - $160**

SATURDAYS (5th October/12th October)
Saddle Club groups) red yellow green 9:30am-11:00am - $100

1st CAMP COLLECTION 11am SAT:

Saddle Club Senior Session (blue/purple/bronze/silver groups) - 11am-3pm - $100

**SADDLE CLUB CAMP blue group up , 11am Saturday until 1pm Sunday - $160**

SUNDAY 6th October/13th October
Short led ride special - 10am-11am - $60
**SENIOR CAMP COLLECTION 1pm **

11/09/2024

The tall & the short of it !

10/09/2024

Wow. September already. Only like 14 weeks till Christmas & 16 weeks to the new year.
#2025 is closing in.

Cheval continues to create change & bring joy to the lives of others.
It’s not about finding a space , but creating one.
I wonder how many people have ridden this gentle soul. … feel free to say yes if you have sat upon this lad. Ride him in a lesson or meandered up the trails on him. … don’t think anyone has had a bad moment on him ( unless they count being partially stepped on or he is so darn slow ). Technically not the biggest bum @ cheval. But officially the tallest

🐎

Often called ‘healers,’ horses have been helping a lot of people who are going through emotional and physical challenges. Just by being near us.

Whether it’s riding a horse, grooming, general farm assistance or merely observing horses, research has shown that being in the presence of horses has various beneficial effects on all people.
Some of the positive physical effects include improvement in motor function and core strength. Meanwhile, the psychosocial benefits include improve self-esteem, self-confidence, empowerment, self-awareness, independence and competency.

Check out our website and see what programmes we have on offer.
Plus #2025 will see some new programmes on offer.

10/09/2024

A lazy Tuesday for chevals Mighty Shetland herd . Rising 1 yr old Samson resting amongst his mumma and aunties.
Adorable little tiny tackers with BIG personalities

07/09/2024

Saddle club spent the day at Coal Valley. 33 young riders. 22 horses/ ponies
Finishing up with 9 adult riders
Massive day. So much footage.
Going take some time to put together.
So for now - my main man Sam and some of his best buds - Begging for treaties.
Some funny faces of a handful of the finest school horses around. Ever.
Champions to the cause of educating their little riders.
Imparting their patience and humility onto their two legged pals ❤️. A Massive effort. By a massive team of great people
Thank you 🙏

05/09/2024

The teenage girls and their baby sister needed to move paddocks due to the water and mud.
And they’re all a little intrigued about the very small animals moving around their new paddock.
Except for baby Aurora’s mum who took the opportunity to stuff her face

04/09/2024

SADDLE CLUB NOTICE
If your child attends saddle club this term please check in regarding Saturday 7 th Sept
As saddle club will be held off site
You must have your child booked in pronto to avoid missing out.
Please see parents page for info

03/09/2024

Happy anniversary to this Young man
Four years ago today he begun this journey.
A shy boy of just 16, hid behind his mum and supports for his first visit to us
Now at 20 he’s Transformed into a more confident strong man most of chevals people know well. ❤️
The journey is real & his love of chevals team, proof of the journey we walked together.
Happy anniversary Alex

01/09/2024

HAPPY FATHERS DAY TO ALL DADS, GRAND DADS, STEP DADS & FATHER FIGURES
Exclusively Siring foals for Cheval only since 2017
‘Macleay Park Cruise Control ‘

31/08/2024

Just a reminder that all classes are cancelled today due to the weather situation. Stay safe and see you all on the other side
Comet enjoyed his night inside with Samson but was ready to go into the out bright and early!

31/08/2024

How good ?- This good !
22 of Chevals horses and ponies worked in that wind today. Without fuss ( welllll almost, Elmo & Violet. 😝 braved 20 min before saying nah thanks ). 😠
But the others - young & old carried beginners- to really competent riders in what can only be described as. The windiest we can ride safely in the arena .
Amazing horses
Amazing Brave instructors
Amazing bunch of die hard Tassie horsey kids
❤️.
It is always with great humility I come home Saturdays having spent the day with such beautiful, Gifted, Selfless young people.
“Hobart - the next generation coming along - will see you in good hands “

27/08/2024

Lovely day for it (RIP Hercules)

22/08/2024

That sums the day up 🤷‍♀️

21/08/2024

Wilson and Lizzie BFFS 4 EVA 🫠🫠

19/08/2024

16/08/2024

The horse ride progressed rapidly. The oldest Thoroughbred, aged 24 and visiting the beach for the first time, was unexpectedly not the slowest. Instead, he instilled vigor in the others and encouraged them to keep up a moderate pace, despite the slightly wet conditions. Copper, an unconventional horse, also stood out due to his smaller size compared to the others.

14/08/2024

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAMS - SEP/OCT 2024

We are now taking bookings for the upcoming school holidays. All sessions are available to book online via the website at www.hobarthorseplay.com.au/school-holidays
You can also send us an email at [email protected] or call/text us at 0433806708 or 0437304410

MONDAYS (30th September/7th October)
3 hour program - 9am-12pm - $150
2 hour program - 1:30pm-3:30pm - $110

TUESDAYS (1st October/8th October)
2 hour program - 12:30pm-2:30pm - $110

WEDNESDAYS (2nd October/9th October)
2 hour program - 10am-12pm - $110
Short led ride special - 12pm-1pm: $60
**OVERNIGHT CAMP - 1:30pm Wednesday until 11am Thursdays - $300**

THURSDAYS (3rd October/10th October)
**CAMP COLLECTION 11am**
2.5 hour program - 12:00pm-2:30pm - $130
Short led ride special - 12:30pm-1:30pm - $60

FRIDAYS (4th October/11th October)
3 hour program - 11am-2pm - $150
**SADDLE CLUB CAMP : 1:30pm Friday until 11am Saturday - $160**

SATURDAYS (5th October/12th October)
Saddle Club groups) red yellow green 9:30am-11:00am - $100

1st CAMP COLLECTION 11am SAT:

Saddle Club Senior Session (blue/purple/bronze/silver groups) - 11am-3pm - $100

**SADDLE CLUB CAMP blue group up , 11am Saturday until 1pm Sunday - $160**

SUNDAY 6th October/13th October
Short led ride special - 10am-11am - $60
**SENIOR CAMP COLLECTION 1pm **

04/08/2024

04/08/2024

Just heads up. The tik tok handle is incorrect
That’s our old one. Please disregard
I was unaware I was sharing from the wrong tik tok account