For over 15 years, RDA has enabled people with disabilities and volunteers to experience a sense of achievement through participation in equestrian activities, developing life skills in the process.
Riding Develops Abilities (RDA) Swan Hill held their final Gymkhana for the year last Tuesday.
RDA Swan Hill coach Verna French said the Gymkhana was a very happy and successful day for the riders.
“We were thrilled to see so many parents showing their support for the children, it was really lovely,”Ms French said.
“We were very proud of all the riders’ abilities, they really earned their ribbons and the ribbons were shared around with everyone.”
Riders were split into four groups depending on their ability level and participated in three different activities – a bending race, a tent pegging race and a timed race through an obstacle course.
President of RDA Swan Hill Cristel Bradbury said the races were aimed to teach the riders’ difficult skills.
“It gave them a great chance to showcase abilities they have developed and skills they have learnt throughout the year,” Ms Bradbury said.
“The kids really love riding, each one has found a different skill to excel at.”
RDA Swan Hill’s Rider of the Year went to Bill Pippin who received a perpetual trophy, a sash and a trophy to keep.
“We awarded Bill with Rider of the Year becasue his skills have greatly improved over the year,” Ms Bradbury said.
To read more of this story, grab a copy of Friday’s Guardian (December 2).
