All across Europe this week, the riders and horses were deep in training sessions, preparing for their departures for the World Equestrian Games. There were cases to pack and last-minute health forms to fill out and decisions to be made about a thousand details.
There was no time for levity. Unless, of course, you were a member of the Dutch team. A rootin? tootin? farewell party, complete with country and western music and a real American fire engine added to the fun as the crowd pumped up the spirits of their equestrians before the takeoff.
It even looked like the horses were enjoying the party. A week earlier, the Queen came out to wish them luck and a safe journey. Each team member received a bicycle to get around the Kentucky Horse Park. They sounded concerned that the Horse Park was too big!
Sorry they are speaking in Dutch on this video, but they are Dutch. You will be seeing a lot of some of those faces in the next few weeks. The Netherlands has excellent chances to medal in several disciplines. And they?re a sure bet to have a good time!
