|
EBONY’S BLOG - October 2009
Living with the Herd and People at
The Shelley Centre for Therapeutic Riding (RDA)
“We’re back to normal and all’s well”. That’s what I would like to say this month but, sadly, this is far from the truth for I have some sad tidings to tell. With my box of Tissues to hand I will relate to you my tale of woe; you might want to have your Hankie at the ready as you read on? Our lovely Prince has passed from us. He had not been well for some time, although we were optimistic that the signs were that he was improving but, finally, a very difficult decision had to be made………. Whilst we are sad, we treasure fond memories of a faithful friend who gave of his very best to Riders and Helpers alike.......... He was a much loved member of the Herd and the People; popular with all who knew him, he never failed to make a good impression upon anyone that met him. He was gregarious, very nosy and a bit bossy; vain like no other he enjoyed the attention of his admirers and had a keen eye for the Fillies? Before he retired to the Centre, Prince was a top show Champion in his own right in both Ridden and In Hand. He gave confidence to all who rode him and was a good School Master. Together, with his constant field companion and conspirator Jet, he enjoyed many a beautiful summer in the fields and was never slow when carrots were in the offing. Shannon and Rocky, for the time being, are bringing comfort to Jet. Perhaps, when next you come to the Centre, you might like to visit Jet, give him a big hug and tell him you understand; he will like that. On a lighter note, Joanna, Rebecca and Tom, three of our long serving Riders (From as young as 3 years old which means they have been riding some 14 years with us) have now left us but, our sadness at losing them turns to excitement as we share their joys and trepidation as they experience a new adventure; Joanna to concentrate on her Schooling and Photography while Rebecca and Tom depart to University. All three suffer from Cerebral Palsy and through their activities at the Centre, by riding both the horses and me (Yes, I do get a look in sometimes!) have benefited physically with increases in both muscle tone and strength. They started riding on Sheepskins with a Pony Leader and two Side Walkers and over the years have progressed to riding in a Saddle independently, which will undoubtedly have helped by building confidence in both themselves and their abilities, not to mention adding another life skill to their profile. Tom, who has ridden Prince many times, has gone on to National level, this being his second year, after qualifying at Oaklands. Tom has competed in Dressage and Turn Out, finishing respectably in both disciplines in the top four amidst strong competition. As an aside, I’m told that Suffolk Saddles were kind enough to donate much of Tom’s riding clothing for this year’s prestigious event; yet another way by which the Centre has been supported. It is amazing to think that from such small beginnings and if given proper sponsorship, it is not unrealistic for any of our Riders, given the ability and of their choosing to go on to become members of the Para Olympics Equestrian Team. I know I’m a newcomer to the Centre but, it does make me proud of our youngsters to see how they have progressed by not only overcoming their own challenges but, also their contribution to the Centre’s success and by setting a fine example to us all. I think I’ll put the Tissues away now, I feel a warm glow in my circuits……………Do you know, I’ve only just noticed, the Swallows are leaving us for another year; they’ll be back in the Spring; something to look forward to?
 Ebony
Further editions of my blog will be uploaded shortly - make sure you come back soon! Meanwhile, if you want to catch up, ‘back-issues’ can be viewed by clicking HERE.
|
