Horse riding program enriches lives

FIFTY people, aged from five to sixty, experience enjoyment on the back of a horse on Friday mornings thanks to Ballarat’s Riding for the Disabled Association.

RDA, a volunteer run organisation, enables people with disabilities to participate in therapeutic, sporting, recreational and educational equestrian activities at the Mt Rowan Equestrian Centre.

The program has been operating for over 40 years in Ballarat.

Marnie Muir, RDA Ballarat volunteer riding coach, said the riders may have physical and intellectual disabilities or may be vision and hearing impaired or suffer from anxiety.

“We are fortunate that we can run the program on a year-round basis in this terrific indoor facility,” Ms Muir said.

“This is especially beneficial in the winter months as it allows our riders to continue working on and developing skills during school terms.”

Coaches develop lesson plans around a theme each term to foster riding and life skills, improve quality of life and attain personal goals.

Dressage and Show jumping are being taught during term three, with the goal of riding in a modified competition day at the Ballarat Show early in term four.

“We are privileged to have assistance from the wider Equestrian community around Ballarat who visit, teach and demonstrate skills and techniques to our riders,” Ms Muir said.