Here is another very talented guide & owner – Mr Pat Retzlaff from Mozambique Horse Safaris. Although Pat, will not be attending himself, you will have the chance to meet his daughter Kate who will be representing him at the Riding Holiday Show on 12 December 2015.
1. How long have you been guiding in Mozambique?
I started at Mozambique Horse Safari in 2006.
2. Where did you guide before this?
I grew up on a farm in Africa and come from a long line of horse lovers. I farmed in Africa before becoming a horse guide.
3. How did you get into guiding? Was there someone who inspired you?
Well it was the politics of our country Zimbabwe. We had farmed for 34 years in Zimbabwe and sadly we had no choice but to leave. We brought 104 rescued horses from farms in Zimbabwe into Mozambique. You can read the story in our book which was published by Harper Collins “104 Horses” by Mandy Retzlaff.
(Olwen from In The Saddle says, “this is a fascinating read – if you haven’t already, do get a copy”)
4. If you hadn’t become a riding guide, what was your Plan B?
I never imagined I would end up a Safari guide if things had remained as they are I would still be farming in Zimbabwe.
5. People coming on a riding holiday often think you have the ideal job – what do you love about it? And what are the downsides?
Mozambique is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and has 2,500km of beautiful beaches. We run our horseback safaris in the Bazaruto Archipelago and the views take your breath away. We meet wonderful people from all over the world. The downside is trying to source things and the lack of equine vets and equipment. We are fairly remote here and even a bottle of wound powder is hard to come by.
6. If your favourite horse was a human, who would he/she be and why?
There are no favourites at Mozambique horse safari. Human? – they are all far too human.
7. What can you not live without (when guiding or just generally)?
It would have to be my hat.
8. What has been your most memorable riding holiday week?
There are so many but one of the most memorable was when I first started riding on the beaches and a school of dolphins came close to shore. They were obviously really curious about the horses so followed us along the shoreline.
9. How do you relax after a day in the saddle?
I go and talk to the horses and make sure they are all settled and well.
10. What advice would you give a 21-year-old who wants to train for your job?
Work for somebody who is passionate about horses and work with as many horses as you can. Make sure you listen and absorb.
11. Where do you go on holiday?
I don’t go away often but I do like Europe.
Thank you Pat for your amazing photos and another wonderful article.
You will have a chance to meet Pat’s daughter, Kate from Mozambique Horse Safaris at the Riding Holiday Show in London on 12 December 2015. Space at the venue is limited so you must obtain a ticket in advance. The event takes place at the Royal Overseas League in SW1 just off Piccadilly from 10 am to 6 pm.
38 different riding destinations will be represented at the Riding Holiday Show. All part of the In The Saddle portfolio of worldwide riding holidays.
10. What advice would you give a 21-year-old who wants to train for your job?
