Barry Armitage
Creator of The Ride, Barry brings the raw determination and bloody mindedness it takes to put these expeditions together and to follow through when the going gets tough. Between adventures it is he who researches the route and history surrounding the original journey and plans the route through the modern landscape. Impatient, curious and daring, Barry is always up for what most would consider a harebrained scheme. Read more...
The vital other half of the riding team, Joe is Barry’s brother in law and close friend. Cool in a crisis, charming and witty, tough, if a little grumpy with it, Joe provides the perfect foil to Barry’s impulsiveness on these intense adventures. A solid partnership developed over years of working together has resulted in a mutual bond of reliance between Barry and Joe. Read more...
With 45 years of life experience, having traveled extensively, and worked everywhere, I still haven't found what I'm looking for. I asked the universe for a change of direction and she introduced me to Barry and Joe! Now it's off...Into the Unknown.
Natalie Basson, alias Nats, inspired adventurer, started travelling South Africa and our neeeiiiigghbouring countries as a child. How does it make you feel joining Into the Unknown? "Excited, exhilarated and overwhelmingly AWESOME!! I'll be the one making the silly jokes and smiling all the way!! Giddy up guys!!
11 year old Pat is a Nooitgedaght and the most experienced horse on the team. Pat stands 14.3 hh, is willing, fit and strong, and some would say the pick of the bunch. He is eager to please, and with a good action and smooth trot is a comfortable ride.
6 year old Jack is a 14.3 hh Nooitgedaght/Cape Boerperd cross and very sociable. He likes company and contact, be it animal or human. Sweet natured, sturdy Jack has a smooth rolling canter and quickly warms to his work.
11 year old Cherokee is a paint horse (saddler cross) standing 14.9 hh. This handsome boy will benefit from the experience on the road to calm his slightly nervous temperament. Once he settles down his smooth action and physical ability make him a pleasure to ride.
The only mare on the team, Cola is 11 years old and stands 14.8 hh. Cola is a paint horse (an Arab/quarter horse cross), extremely athletic and very quick over short distances, and she is a fantastic jumper. She settles well into the rhythm of steady daily distances which calms her sparky temperament.
