Spain Andalusia Tour Experience (Part 2)

We’ve gathered feedback from participants of the recent “Spain Andalusia Tour.” Please take a look at FRC’s activities.

November 13 (Wednesday) – November 20 (Wednesday), 2024 By T.A., Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture

I absolutely want to go on the Spain tour again!

The highlight of FRC’s tours is undoubtedly the connections we make with the local people and horses. From Candau Ranch’s owner Ignacio and staff members like Antonio to the calm and obedient horses, everyone and everything made the experience unforgettable.

What I found particularly valuable was the time spent carefully matching riders with horses before the journey. As the Japanese saying “Uma ga au” (to be well-matched, literally “the horse fits”) suggests, compatibility with a horse is crucial. By checking rider-horse compatibility in advance, the tour became not only safer but also more enjoyable.

My horse for the trip was Ventbal, who struck me as sensitive to the bit and somewhat restless. When I struggled a bit, other tour members advised me not to pull too much on the reins but to simply hold them lightly. Following their guidance, I was able to ride more calmly and comfortably.

During one evening meal, Ignacio treated us to guitar performances and singing. When he asked to hear a Japanese song, I sang the theme from the soccer anime “Captain Tsubasa.” Both Ignacio and Antonio were delighted, which made me really happy. I also taught Antonio the famous line from pro wrestler Antonio Inoki: “Genki desu ka!” (Are you doing well?) and had him say it, which brought the house down.

Finally, I would like to sincerely thank FRC’s representative Mr. Tanaka for organizing the Spain tour, as well as Ignacio and the staff at Candau Ranch, our local guides Mr. Shinohara, Mr. Takagi, and Mrs Takamido, and all the tour participants. Thank you so much. I look forward to seeing you again.