Helping-hands, wheel chairs, crutches, and leg braces carried children into the arena when Therapeutic Riding students performed in Helen Woodward Animal Center ’s annual Horse Show this Saturday, March 8. Using the theme, “Olympic Inspiration” riders participated in “Jumping” or “Dressage” demonstrations in honor of the 2008 Olympic games.

 

More than 40 riders with varying degrees of physical and mental challenges performed in programs that allowed them to display their abilities. Following their programs, Helen Woodward Animal Center spokesman John Van Zante presented each rider with a Blue Ribbon in honor of his or her participation and progress.

 

 

Therapeutic Riding Manager Alicia Roe says, “All too often these kids spend their weekends watching brothers or sisters play baseball or soccer. During the horse show their siblings sit in the stands and watch as the riders become the stars of the show.” Roe says the event gives riders an opportunity to show their families the progress they have made.

 

While the show is an uplifting event, there are always a few tears shed as proud parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends gather to support the riders.

 

Roe says, “The show gives the riders a chance to show-off and demonstrate what they’ve learned. They work hard to prepare for the show each year. We’re very proud of them.”