Cerridwen Horseshoeing

02/13/2025

Fun Information

When I was a little kid, I used to watch this movie, Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken a lot and I was obsessed with this newly-blinded girl learning to jump on a horse’s back and dive off a platform.

It never once occurred to me to question whether or not horses diving into water was a real thing; I assumed it was just a movie premise. But as it turns out, starting around the 1880s and up until the 1970s, diving horses actually were a real attraction. I’m not sure what I thought “based on a true story” meant but it was not “this is based on a true story about actual horses diving.”

Apparently some did it without riders, and some did it with riders. Although there was not a single report of an injury to any of the horses, it was apparently quite dangerous for the rider. Lorena reportedly broke an average of one bone per year for the duration of her career, and Oscar Smith, an 18-year old, lost his life in a 1907 dive (the horse survived).

And then there is the fact that the movie was based on Sonora Webster, one of the first woman divers. In 1931, Sonora hit the water with her eyes open, and the impact caused both of Sonora’s retina’s to detach, blinding her permanently. She continued horse diving afterward.

The platforms used in the past used to be up to 60 feet tall, and the water below at least 12 feet deep, with some kind of ramp so the horse could find the bottom and walk out afterward. The Steel Pier horses dove anywhere from 2 to 6 times every day.

The most famous act was at the Steel Pier amusement park, and featured two horses, King and Queen, and was built by the son (Al Carver) of the guy (William Carver) who first had the idea. William’s daughter, Lorena, became the first rider. The show became known as The Great Carver Show.

02/01/2025

👍 Doesn't work all the time, but when it does ❤️😊

01/01/2025

12/19/2024

Coming Soon: The TheraRide Introducing the Scootboot TheraRide, the first therapeutic hoof boot designed for both therapy and riding! Join The Waitlist Why Choose The TheraRide? The Scootboot TheraRide is the world's most revolutionary hoof boot designed for both therapy and riding. It's the ideal s...

11/03/2024

11/03/2024

Inspiration for my Customers next Year!

Everyone had amazing Costumes this year don't get me wrong 🤩

10/15/2024

This is a great chart to budget from and kind of plan from. There is always variables but it’s pretty close.

10/02/2024

Life Data® Lamina Formula is a laminae supplement that can be fed to horses with a history of laminitis

10/02/2024

Organic Expeller Pressed Omega Oil For Horses

10/02/2024

The Role of Omega-3 Support in Laminitis Management is a complex and often devastating condition that threatens not only the soundness of the horse but also its overall quality of life. With its origins rooted in structural compromise within the hoof, laminitis can arise from various factors...

10/01/2024

09/27/2024

A piece of forgotten history

Since I’m on a historical photo kick, check out this WWI mule ambulance. Mules are so incredibly versatile!

09/08/2024

Sean Connery: The Legendary Actor and His Love for Horses
In the world of Hollywood, Sean Connery is a name that needs no introduction. The Scottish actor rose to fame as the original James Bond, captivating audiences with his charm, wit, and undeniable charisma. But beyond his illustrious acting career, Connery had a lesser-known passion that brought him great joy and fulfillment - his love for horses.

Connery was not just a casual admirer of horses; he was an avid equestrian who had a deep connection with these magnificent creatures. Throughout his life, he spent much of his free time riding, training, and caring for horses. He once famously said, "There is nothing more beautiful than the bond between a man and his horse."

One of Connery's most beloved horses was a thoroughbred named Highlander. He acquired Highlander during the filming of one of his Bond movies and the two quickly formed a strong bond. Connery would often be seen riding Highlander on the beaches of his home in the Bahamas, revelling in the freedom and exhilaration that only horseback riding can provide.

Connery's passion for horses went beyond just the thrill of riding. He was a patron of several equestrian charities and was known for his generous contributions to causes that supported horse welfare and rehabilitation. His dedication to these causes reflected his belief in the importance of treating these majestic animals with the respect and care they deserve.

In his later years, as Connery stepped away from the spotlight, he continued to find solace and joy in his horses. He would often retreat to his ranch in Spain, where he could immerse himself in the peaceful company of his beloved animals. For Connery, horses were not just a hobby - they were a source of comfort, companionship, and solace in a world that was often chaotic and demanding.

As we remember the iconic Sean Connery, let's not forget his deep love for horses and the profound impact they had on his life. His passion for these noble creatures serves as a testament to the transformative power of the human-animal bond and the beauty that can be found in the simple act of riding a horse.

Rest in peace, Sir Sean Connery, and may you ride on in the eternal pastures with your faithful horses by your side.

09/01/2024

Every now and again you get a cow trimming. 🐮

She was such a lovely gal to work on. She is getting pretty good about hoof pickup 😜