After several years of riders talking about ‘what fun it would be for equestrians to have a float at Mardi Gras,’ it is actually going to happen this year thanks to the ‘let’s do it’ attitude of event riders, Fiona Hughes and Shaun Dillon.
We spoke to Fiona to find out more …
“Shaun and I were talking about last years Mardi Grass at some event and lots of us thought it would be a good idea if we could get an equestrian float together and now it is finally happening. We went to Equestrian Australia who gave us their ‘blessing’ to say it’s an equestrian float and although they are not financially backing it they were happy to promote our cause on their social media outlets, which is great.
Anwen Keeling is our artist and has been busy designing and painting a horse statue for the back of the truck. We are utilizing the horse’s heads from Camden and the whole float will have a carousel feel to it, with a rainbow colour scheme. Jane Robinson has come on board and done the logo for us on our Facebook (Hot to Trot) page and Jenny Bennet is helping us with some choreography. We have some horsey themed music and dance moves including the half pass, the flying change and the pirouette.
Brightons saddlery and Agnes Banks Equine Vet Clinic have come on board and made donations, which is wonderful– everyone has been so supportive.
The big thing we have to get across is that you don’t have to be gay to join in the fun and be on the float. We just want to have a full float of people who are accepting of others whatever their sexuality. In the equestrian disciplines we all probably know someone who is gay but I have found people to be very accepting.
At the moment from the eventing world we have Emma Mason coming on board and Natalie Blundell together with her boyfriend, as well as several others. But we want as many people as possible so we can really make an impact.
If you are wondering what you have to wear we have left it up to the individual as to how much or how little they wear, as long as it is some kind of riding wear. Add a bit of glitter and rainbow colours, and if you, or your neighbours kid, has a hobby horse bring that as well. So come on, don’t be shy, it would be great to get equestrian sports recognised at Mardi Gras!”
To be part of the action go on to the Nominate website and buy a ticket ($50) to go on the float, or see Fiona this weekend at SIEC.
