Meet a Globetrotter: Donna Rawlinson
The Grand Tetons Ride, USA
That there is the face of a globetrotter who is deep in a state of pure bliss! Donna Rawlinson joined us on the very first Grand Tetons Ride in Wyoming, USA, and believe us when we say she didn’t stop smiling the whole six days! If you sign up for this riding holiday, you’ll soon see why.
It was such a pleasure getting to know Donna when we rode together that we wanted to introduce her to all of you, too. Read on to find out all about her journey with horses and why The Grand Tetons Ride filled her cup to overflowing!
What is your day job?
I retired early after taking a “gap year” – the horse thing kicked in!
How have horses influenced or changed your life?
Having some incredibly talented (and patient!) trainers work with me and my horses over the years – learning the importance of determination, consistency and resilience for the ups and downs of life with horses – good life lessons.
What is your earliest memory of horses?
My earliest memory is being about 3 years old, and my family taking me for a lead rein pony ride in the park. I refused point blank to get on the Shetland pony I was offered, and made them wait until a horse was available. Diva in the making…
What was your first horse or pony called?
My “first pony” (a 16.2 chestnut warmblood) arrived when I was 27 – his name was Rupert.
What does riding or being with horses mean to you?
Living with horses becomes a way of life in itself. Definitely being in the saddle or just in the stables is my happy place – stepping out of the real world for an hour or two. A balm for the soul.
What have horses taught you the most?
Humility and the art of negotiation.
What was your first Globetrotting ride?
The Grand Tetons Ride! I wanted an adventure, and it was certainly that. I’ve always wanted to see those big skies and the scenery was truly breathtaking. Days of riding in pristine wilderness – no signs of humanity – it was heaven. Incredible horses, taking me places I wouldn’t have thought possible, never missing a step and never giving me a moment for concern. I was very sad to say goodbye to my wonderful horse, Spur, at the end of the trip. And it was an enormous privilege to spend time with our hosts in Wyoming – listening to campfire stories about the land, the wildlife and the people. Their love for the land and their way of life shone through every day. They were warm and caring, and worked so hard to ensure we all had a great trip. It was my first horse riding holiday, and I was travelling solo, but it never felt like it. I was lucky enough to be on a guided trip, with Steve and Aimee, who were great at looking after us all. My fellow guests brought a wealth of equestrian experiences from all around the world and there was a great feeling of comradeship.
Was this ride celebrating or marking a significant moment/milestone/achievement in your life? And if so, would you mind sharing?
It was a life affirming moment for me – I needed some adventure!
What was your most memorable moment on this ride?
There were so many – but I think it was the night we camped out in pup tents high up in the mountains, after an amazing climb up through a gully to over 3000m, watching the sunset with our horses turned loose for the night, sitting round the campfire, with the sound of the bells on the mules in the distance. Going to sleep looking out at a sky full of stars, feeling so close that you could reach out and touch them, and waking up to sunrise in the mountains.
What made you take the plunge and sign up for a Globetrotting holiday?
I discovered the Globetrotting website, and it was like opening Pandora’s box! All these amazing places and so little time, it was an easy decision – what was I waiting for?
Why choose this type of travel? As in exploring a new country from the back of a horse?
Seeing the world in partnership with a horse brings a unique perspective – for me, it’s feeling immersed in the landscape, rather than just observing it.
A tip that every globetrotter should know before going on a ride…
Don’t worry about a thing in the run up to your trip – you will be well taken care of every step of the way, and you are in for an incredible experience.
Finish this sentence: Don’t leave home without…
Your hip flask!! 😂
If Donna has inspired you to see the Grand Tetons for yourself, check out all the details and book your saddle seat here!