Horse People Podcast

Episode #45 - How This Equine Vet Became a Legend in the Endurance Discipline: The Story of Fred Barrelet


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Episode Overview

In this episode, Dr. Fred Barrelet, a retired veterinary surgeon, shares his lifelong passion for horses, spanning his early love of riding, his work in endurance events, and his remarkable experiences in Mongolia. Fred offers insights into the ever-evolving horse-human bond, the challenges facing equestrian sports today, and why placing horse welfare front and center is more important than ever.


Timeline of episode:

  • Fred’s Path to Equestrian Consultancy

    • Veterinary background and transition to international event work

    • Memorable career highlights, including involvement with royal carriages

  • Endurance Riding & Equestrian Evolution

    • Growth and regulation in endurance competitions

    • The historical importance of Newmarket for racing and breeding

  • The Human-Horse Bond

    • 7,000 years of partnership and why it still matters

    • Cultural nuances: “rough love” in Mongolia vs. Western training methods

  • Social License to Operate

    • Increasing scrutiny of horse welfare

    • Efforts to maintain public trust and ethical standards in all disciplines

  • Adventures in Mongolia

    • Mongol Derby background and its intense demands

    • Veterinary care vs. rider care: unexpected challenges

    • Trust-building and cultural respect when handling Mongolian ponies

  • Personal Favorites & Reflections

    • Why eventing stands out for Fred

    • Admiration for both Thoroughbreds and heavy horse breeds

    • Horses as symbols of freedom and solace

    • Equestrianism is under social pressure: responsible welfare practices are key.

    • Approaches to horse training vary worldwide but center on respect and trust.

    • Fred’s experience highlights the importance of balancing tradition with modern standards.

    • Mongolia’s horse culture offers a unique look at the tough realities—and deep loyalties—of herder life.


    Notable Takeaways

    • Equestrianism is under social pressure: responsible welfare practices are key.

    • Approaches to horse training vary worldwide but center on respect and trust.

    • Fred’s experience highlights the importance of balancing tradition with modern standards.

    • Mongolia’s horse culture offers a unique look at the tough realities—and deep loyalties—of herder life.

    ...more
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    Horse People PodcastBy Gideon Kotkowski

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