THE therapeutic power of horse riding – and, in particular, the spectacular discipline of equestrian vaulting – will be showcased at a special event next Thursday.
Dancing With Horses, which takes place at Greenlawdean, Greenlaw, is presented by Equibuddy, a relatively new charity which is a member group of Riding for the Disabled (RDA). Its raison d’etre is to challenge Borderers, many with physical and learning disabilities, to achieve their full potential through this unusual team sport, which is basically gymastics on the back of a moving horse.
Next week’s event will mark the end of Equibuddy’s mobile unit project which takes these therapeutic services to under-utilised equestrian facilities across the Borders.
“Much of our recent mobile unit activities, which means we can work with disadvantaged children and young people, has centred around the Monteviot RDA centre near Ancrum,” explained Equibuddy’s Julie-Ann Kitt.
Sheadded: “We have also recently received excellent feedback from Earlston High and Wilton Primary in Hawick about our therapy sessions which really help youngsters make progress towards goals set by the Curriculum for Excellence.”
The young vaulters have been training for months for next Thursday’s event which takes place from 7 till 9pm, with the gates open at 6.15pm.
Tickets can be purchased at Equibuddy office on 01361 810354 or be email to enquiries@equibuddy.org
Adult tickets cost £15 (children under 12 £7, famiy tickets for two adults and two children £35). The ticket price will include a barbecue and there will be additional food and refreshment stands.
“We are hoping this wonderful event will not only raise much-needed funds, but encourage more volunteers to become involved in our charity,” said Julie-Ann.