The WEG2014 Interview! 2/2
Here is the second part of our guest's interview. Discover how they lived the WEG2014 experience from the inside with Howrse!
Tell us how these World Equestrian Games went for you?
The games were amazing, seeing the venues, the dressage, watching it on tv in the hotel - just being a *part* of the whole experience was really very special. It is something that only happens every 4 years, and the tv coverage is very poor, even though equestrianism is so popular - so to get a chance to be there, and see it live, was very very special.
By Raf's Mum
The experience was like a dream from beginning to end. I was so astounded to win this great prize, to have the chance to travel to France, meet fellow Howrse lovers from around the world, and attend the World Equestrian Games! Everything went so well, and when the trip was finished I could look back and say that it was even more fun and memorable than I imagined it would be.
By NickiStar
How did you react when you learnt that you would be coming to the world equestrian games?
Disbelief, excitement, not sure what to do. But it came on Howrse mail, so it couldn't be a scam, lol. When I finally started conversing with Ow, I started to get really excited.
By Balico
When I opened the message that told me I was being chosen to go, I dropped my laptop on my dog - he was fine, and has forgiven me - even if I did squeak very loudly in excitement and jump around the house like an over-excited child !
By Raf's Mum What would be THE moment of these world equestrian games for you?
There were many incredible moments but one that really sums up the excitement, beauty, and history of the Games and Normandy, for me, was watching the top horses & riders gallop over the cross-country course at le Haras du Pin, the crowd cheering them on, the grand historic stables of the French National Stud as a backdrop--breath-taking!!
By NickiStar
Getting to the Owlient Office, meeting some staff, and Ow. Then realising I was really in France. Then the Coach. I loved the whole coach ride, everything was so exciting. But probably the best part was the VIP lounge and seeing the horses up so close.
By Balico How did it go with the other players from every version?
I did find a bit of a language barrier. But everyone tried so hard to meet each other, I had a wonderful time with most of the other players.
By Balico
It was great to meet all of the lovely ladies from the other versions! I hope that we will all remain in contact for years to come. Communication was challenging at times, but somehow we all made it work! I know a little French from high school, but I couldn't remember much of it. Ow was very helpful in translating both English and French for us!
By k9yorkie Do you have a secret or an anecdote to tell us about Ow?
I don't think anyone actually saw Ow without POwny...even in the restaurant !
By Raf's Mum
OS by Ow: There is never enough POwny! Wait and see what new adventures we come up with for him ... *evil laugh*
My secret is. I think she is a real Lady. The places we went to and the food we ate was incredible. She made everyone feel special. But I think she'd be a blast at a party, lol. She has an evil/naughty streak in her :P
By Balico
Was is your first time in France and what did you think of it?
No, I have been to France several times, but it was great seeing the Owlient offices, and the people that work there, and being able to talk to them about how they see the game from their side of the experience. My French was a bit rusty, but luckily between us all, we could chat and laugh, and be understood in one language or another. Paris is a beautiful city, and seeing the landmarks is always a treat - as was the coach journey out to Caen - being able to watch the lovely countryside roll past was nice. Even if the entire coach screamed *POWNY !!* every time a horse was in view in a field !
By Raf's Mum
This was my second trip to France. I was there 20 years ago on a school trip for French Class. We only visited Paris back then so it was really nice to be able to see the Northern part of the country on the drive to Normandy.
By hayburner5
Yes it was my first time. In my entire life, I don't think France was ever mentioned. And to find myself there was an incredible feeling. I felt in awe of everything. I laughed many times watching the silly things the traffic was doing. I loved France, and I only wish I had had a couple weeks there to site see as well. I also found the French people to be amazing. I was treated so well, and with respect. I was made to feel special, and that was wonderful. I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming.
By Balico
What would your end word about this adventure be?
I am so thankful to Ow and the rest of the Howrse team for asking me to be a part of this amazing adventure! I made some new International friends and hope we keep in touch! It was a trip I will never forget! And I do plan to visit the World Equestrian Games in Canada in 2018!
By k9yorkie
This epic adventure was more than I could have ever dreamed. I only wish my knee hadn't been so bad. I felt like a drag on some people. But it made me feel a whole lot better about my life and wanting to do more of it. If it wasn't for Owlient, I would never have been able to go on such a journey. I can never thank you enough.
By Balico
Ow
