By Sarah Lefebvre 

Growing up around horses and riding independently from a young age, I never imagined I’d become so enchanted with the Icelandic horse breed. I met a local family that bred Icelandic horses through a relative interested in their smooth gait, ideal for those with back and knee concerns. Initially, after a couple of trail rides, I thought, “This is cool, but I’ll stick with my Quarter Horse.” Little did I know, my journey was about to take an exciting turn. 

Sarah Lefebvre competes with Frakki in the Extreme Cowboy Challenge at the Chilliwack Fair. Photo: Elora Rodrigues 

A few months later, I heard about an Icelandic named Frakki — meaning “coat” in Icelandic — who needed a new home. With a history and a reputation as a “project,” he piqued my interest. Standing at 13.2 hands and boasting a striking brown tobiano coat, Frakki challenged my conventional training methods. The Icelandic’s stoic nature meant I had to adapt from high-pressure techniques to a more nuanced approach. This shift helped us connect and marked the start of a transformative journey. 

Sarah and Derek Lefebvre with Harlow on Frakki, Christmas 2024.  Photo: Sharon Dinter 

Working with Frakki and attending Icelandic events opened my eyes to the Icelandic culture and its unique equine philosophy. In Iceland, horse welfare is paramount, with no rush to start young horses and a strong emphasis on letting them live naturally. This approach resonated with me and profoundly impacted my connection with Frakki. 

L-R: Sarah Lefebvre and Corinne Kriegl performing with the drill team at a Chilliwack Riding Club Show. Photo: Sheila Armstrong Photography 

The versatility of the Icelandic horse quickly won me over. Frakki became my go-to horse for everything from drill to three-day-events and long mountain trails. His easygoing character and resilience turned him into one of my favourite companions. At 23 years old, he defies age — requiring no special maintenance and now serving as my husband’s reliable mount for ranch roundups. 

Derek Lefebvre and Frakki riding at the ranch. Photo: Megan Holm 

Since acquiring Frakki, my herd has transformed. I now have only one Quarter Horse, with all my others being Icelandic. Their adaptability, longevity, and charming personalities have truly captivated me. It’s no wonder they hold such a beloved place in Icelandic culture. 

If you ever get the chance to ride an Icelandic horse, be prepared to fall in love. They’re more than just a breed; they’re a gateway to a vibrant culture and a lifetime of unforgettable riding experiences. But beware — they’re incredibly addictive, and you just might find yourself smitten for life.

For more information, visit the Canadian Icelandic Horse Federation website or email: cihf.contact@gmail.com. 

Main Photo: Sarah and Harlow Lefebvre with Frakki on a trail ride on the Vedder trails. Photo: Corinne Kriegl