Pushball now also in Curaçao
In March 2009 Pushball trainer Hélène de Fremery visited Curaçao, with an exclusive party from Rotterdam, in her baggage a number of large Pushballs, in order to introduce the sport to the Dutch Antilles. On arrival in Curaçao there was cordially welcomed by members of the SHC stables of Curaçao (Société Hippique Curaçao); several youngsters and their ponies simply could not wait to get acquainted with this ball game!
The yellow ball, pictured on the photo above, is actually on the small side for the average Antillean horse. It clearly does not quite reach the breastbone as required. It was simply a matter of making of do of what we had for this once. We therefore only did exercises and could not play a game because of this ‘small’ ball.
In only one afternoon, with the assistance of instructor Arina of the SHC and both the Van Dam daughters, we managed to introduce 7 horses and ponies to the ball. In this, the 6 year old Gabriëlle with the 30 year old gelding assisted amongst others. Despite the strong character of this horse, this youthful but bold horsewoman did very well during training.
During the last ‘lesson’ the stand was packed with locals, adults owning Paso Fino’s and Quarter Horses themselves. These spectators were very interested what challenges this new sport could bring.
The children really enjoyed this afternoon, sitting in the riding arena that had just recently been covered with a roof, and therefore benefiting from the shade it gives. Because the sides are open, the wind offered a benevolent sea breeze. All in all a fantastic location to be invited to give a training!
This first introduction was very enjoyable and certainly was a stimulant to further develop Pushball in Curaçao. Via this Website we would very much again like to thank the team and the children from the SHC for their enthusiasm and effort and wish both the Van Dam family and Arina all the best with the continuation of this initiative and Pushball in their lessons.
