Learning about Horses with T.J. Gillespie

I Want to Really Learn about Horses by T.J. Gillespie

– a must-have book for the horse and equestrian enthusiast –

I Want to Really Learn about Horses by T.J. Gillespie really is a must-have book for any horse and equestrian enthusiast. Whether a person is learning about horses for the first time or, has previous experience, there is so much insight to be gained from this compact volume, coming from a knowledgeable source. More than just a learning aid, it is a book that will serve as a lifelong companion to anyone wishing to share in the privilege of good horsemanship.

Recently re-issued, with few, if any changes, T.J. Gillespie's book has been in constant demand since first published in 2011. It is now available in both print and e-book editions, providing for a continuity that will allow successive generations to benefit and gain insight from the author's lifelong passion.

Growing up in Sligo, on Ireland's western seaboard, T.J. Gillespie (aka Tom na gCapaillín) saw horses all around him and took them for granted. Some enchanted day, he knew he must learn more so, he listened and watched and read and, thought out the prevailing wisdom. He put theory to the test, devising and presenting a series of Horse and Pony Management courses, thereby gaining insight into other owners' problems and points of view.

I Want to Really Learn about Horses represents a summation of that lifelong learning, imparted with an enthusiasm that is infectious, written in a warm and engaging style. In no more than 80 pages, the author shares his wealth of experience with an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide, punctuated with illustrations and diagrams throughout. The subjects covered are wide ranging but always to the point.

I Want to Really Learn about Horses by T.J. Gillespie is available to buy online, in print and e-book editions. RRP €9.99 (print edition) plus P&P.

Postcript: On the Road from Thomastown

The Good Shepherd

Every winter’s night a solitary figure steps out the road from Thomastown.

Here’s how you’ll know him; 

‘Tidy bundle of hay under one arm; quarter-filled meal bag in the other’! 

“I’ll stop for a chat” 

Wintry squalls tormented us but Pat was not bothered. 

“Clover Hill; Ballinvella; Smooth Stepper; Delmaine; a great horsewoman from Kinnity and someone from Clondra.” 

I took my leave “stock of my own” and ‘tipped’ back to Trim. 

Strange how the parable of the Good Shepherd kept coming to mind. 

When next I heard, Pat was dead and buried. 

They say Peter himself was ‘on the gate’. 

“Come in a mhic-Come in!”

Down here we just say “may the green sod rest lightly on our grave, Pat.” 

T.J.G.

PS: If you ever happen down that windswept road and the night is dark enough

Chances are you'll meet Pat still 'stepping out'. 

Make an effort for a chat;

He likes to 'keep in touch'. 

Appreciation of Pat Coffey, Thomastown, Killucan, died 8th May 1995.

The Good Shepherd originally appeared in the form of a dedication to the book I Want to Really Learn about Horses by T.J. Gillespie (aka Tom na gCapaillín).