Riding for the Blind:

An idea that I jumped into feet first and that has snowballed from there. We held our first clinic the other day and what and amazing experience - and not just for those attending but all involved.

Well Wednesday was the first Riding for the blind clinic. Not just for Bluemoon Equestrian Centre but also for S.A. And it was a resounding success. The guys arrived just after 8 am and after a quick intro were taken too individually to meet the herd. What an experience - Not just for the guys and girls but for me and my staff. To see the fear melt to wonder and happiness was the great experience of my career. I only wish I could explain the smiles. Shortly after that we had a coffee break and a chat and then it was up and way on the horses. Each rider got an hour’s tuition and we started with some basic balance and physiotherapy exercises and then on to steering, Needless to say they took to it like ducks to water and we soon had each of them riding on their own. And by this I mean with no one leading them. And not only were they going in round the outside of the ring but changing rein in the figure of 8 and doing circles. The braver ones tried a trot and those that were unstoppable were trotting and steering. This is a first and not only within the blind community. I have never had a sighted or able-bodied rider do this in their first lesson!!!! So congratulations guys!!!!!! Not only were you the first in your field you also outstripped the rest of us!!!!

In the afternoon we did a tactile session with the guys grooming the horses and followed this with a Q and A session and a review of the day. The request ranged from lectures on horse care and nutrition to out rides and opportunities to go out there and meet other riders. So here goes and a busy few months we will have setting this up but set it up we shall!!!

All I can say is thanks to all those who took part from the staff to the helpers to the amazing guys who showed us all what true spirit, determination and a zest for life are all about.