The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation Season 2 Episode 2 Horse Play

The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation is a popular TV show that inspires viewers to learn more about science, engineering, and innovation. In season 2, episode 2, titled "Horse Play," the focus is on exploring several interesting innovations related to horses.

The episode opens with a fascinating look at an innovative stable design that is meant to protect horses from natural elements and keep them healthier. The host of the show, Mo Rocca, takes us on a tour of the stable and shows how it's designed with natural materials, such as wood and straw, to keep horses cozy and warm during winter months.

Next, we learn about kickball, a sport that combines elements of soccer and horseback riding. We meet a group of teenagers who have come up with a unique way to play kickball on horseback. They share the rules of the game with us and show how they use teamwork and skill to play.

The episode also explores a unique technology that is being used to improve the performance of racehorses. We learn how scientists are using state-of-the-art motion capture technology to track the movement of horses on the racetrack. By analyzing this data, researchers hope to improve the health and performance of racehorses.

Mo Rocca also gives us a glimpse into the history of horses. He visits a museum that houses some of the world's oldest horse-drawn vehicles. This includes a carriage that was used to transport the Queen of England, as well as several other antique vehicles that reflect the history of horsemanship.

In addition to these fascinating innovations, the episode also explores a lesser-known aspect of the equestrian world - the art of jousting. We meet a group of enthusiasts who have taken up the medieval sport of jousting and adapted it for the modern era. They demonstrate how they use specially designed lances and armor to recreate the excitement of a medieval jousting tournament.

The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation, season 2, episode 2, "Horse Play," is a fascinating and educational look at how horses have played a significant role in human history and how they continue to inspire innovation today. The show highlights the hard work and creativity of scientists, engineers, and innovators who are always looking for new ways to improve the lives of both horses and humans.