ilana Madar
Horse Owner, France
How long have you been a member of Equitopia?
2.5 years.
Why did you join Equitopia?
I was looking for two things I was not finding locally: 1- How other nations were dealing with horses; 2- An approach based on FACTS versus “we’ve always done it this way”.
What do you enjoy most about Equitopia?
Equitopia offers a global vision, sharing trends from experts from all around the world. All these experts have one thing in common : they are sharing FACTS. And this is what I like the most!
What do you love most about horsemanship?
Horses are subtle yet we are taught to treat them as objects most of the time. I am amazed at their finesse and infinite understanding of us. Horsemanship is about giving them back this politeness, understanding them and getting them to cooperate by their choice.
How do you define success in horsemanship?
It’s easy : when the horse is happy doing what he is doing with you. It includes that he feels happy, healthy and safe when with you.
Who inspires you – and why?
Animals : they don’t possess anything, they are not in the having. They are in the being, with a rightness that few humans have in my opinion. To be in this balance of being is for me a goal in itself.
If you could choose anyone as a mentor, who would you choose?
Seneca.
What’s one thing – either horse-related or not – you learned in the last month?
Be the change you want to see in the world (Gandhi) … regardless of what others do or say !
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I have a phobia of butterflies.
What’s your favorite book?
Of peace of Mind ( Seneca).
What’s your favorite movie of all time?
The Princess Bride.
If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Veggies Biryani.
If you were told you could say 1 thing that the entire horse world would act on, what would that be?
Horses do not need to be loved. They need to be understood.