Giving those with disability the ride of their life

THANKS to the vital partnership between Riding for the Disabled Association of Victoria (RDA), Off The Track and Woolamai Race Club, those with a disability are able to enjoy all that equestrian has to offer.

Every Thursday, participants are taken to the pony club area where they gain hands on experience learning how to ride a horse while making new friends and enjoying the outdoors.

Bruce Spiden, vice president of Woolamai Race Club, had the vision to establish the RDA centre at Woolamai working hard for almost two years to organise funding, donations, volunteers and suitable horses.

After finally being able to start up, the program has been a success and is seeking more volunteers.

“The pony club had wound down and I thought I could bring back what I used to do with RDA at the police barracks in South Melbourne,” he said.

“I was with RDA for several years and I just felt this was right, it’s such a wonderful environment and gives opportunities for people who want to ride horses or get involved.

“It did take a long time during COVID (to get it organised), but we’re about nine months into it.”

The Sentinel-Times visited one of the sessions last week, getting a glimpse at how participants are supported and guided in equestrian foundations, with the smiles on their faces saying it all.

RDA Victoria president Tanya Twaits was also in attendance and spoke highly of Bruce’s efforts and how great it was to expand the program.

As for the horses, Off The Track’s role is to support thoroughbreds in post-racing careers to help drive demand for the breed as a performance and pleasure horse while educating the community about post-racing options.

Bruce highlighted they are in great need of more volunteers and there are a number of opportunities to get involved.

For more information visit,  www.facebook.com/RDAWoolamai/ or contact Bruce on 0419 372 581.