The 'older generation' might remember the sound of the fish horn and the sight of street signs at the bottom of steep roads stating 'No horsedrawn traffic'! Many fascinating stories have been passed down through the generations, still told by today's carties.
Daisy Day kicked off appropriately at the V&A Waterfront Annual Spring Flower Show. CHPA, as official beneficiary, hosted a table throughout the show in the exhibition marquee on Clock Tower Square, attracting much interest from visitors. The main draw cards were undoubtedly Viking, Fousie and Iascka - belonging respectively to Mr Rinquest and Mr Ockerts - who provided cart rides to members of the public from Market to Clock Tower Squares.
The horses were stabled in unaccustomed luxury nearby, deservedly spoiled on thick comfy beds that they were somewhat reluctant to leave in the mornings! Viking made short work of two ice cream cones and slap chips with tomato sauce offered by one of his passengers which bears out the old saying 'Wat nie doodmaak nie, maak vet!'
Carts were gaily decorated with balloons and harnesses with daisy posies. Many visitors displayed interest in the horses, were amazed at their good condition and very complimentary about CHPA's work and achievements. Getting the carts to the venue could have been a nightmare, but was a breeze thanks to Cursons Rigging who used a crane truck to transport them to the Waterfont and lift them over obstacles to the venue. Megan found this new experience rather nerve-wracking, particularly her first ever cart ride. As she said; " It was quite scary, but exhilarating at the same time. After a while I calmed down and enjoyed the feel of the horse trotting along and the sound of hooves on the cobbles". A wonderful experience for all concerned, just a pity that the last day had to be cancelled due to bad weather. Would it not be great if Viking, Fousie and Iascka could do this on a regular basis?
Throughout September, twenty of the most deserving carties were given 'Proud to be a part of Cape Town's Heritage' signs to hang on the back of their carts. Hopefully these signs will signal the start of some form of ID for all carts making identification much easier for members of the public. Thanks to ever-supportive Boock Signs and Graphics for sponsoring the signs.
The Carthorse Daisy Day Heritage Parade through the streets of Epping, Goodwood and Parow on October 2nd was a roaring success. Postponed from the previous Saturday due to bad weather, over fifty carties turned up to celebrate the carthorse as part of our city's heritage, and to show Capetonians how good their horses, carts and harness are looking. The procession was led by the 'Carthorse Entertainers' blowing trumpets and beating drums. A very festive occasion thoroughly enjoyed by participants and spectators alike. Both the Argus and Die Burger carried prominent stories and pictures of this unique event - a first for Cape Town.
On St Francis Day, Sunday October 3rd, CHPA trucked carthoses Molly and Foussie to Rhodes Memorial for the Animal Blessing Ceremony hosted by the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. Molly and Foussie who behaved impeccably, represented the other 439 working hoses that were unable to make it this time! Xen and Space our Inspectors 'security guards' were also in on the action. Hope you caught Megan being interviewed on ETV news that evening!
