Highland riding for the disabled association holds first major competition at resurfaced indoor riding centre

The Highland Group Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) held its first major competition at its recently resurfaced indoor riding centre at Borlum Farm, Drumnadrochit on the 8th and 9th June.

The Grampian and Highland regional dressage championships saw 45 competitors and around 100 spectators gather at the Highland Group RDA's centre in Drumnadrochit to see first hand the new cushion track surface being put to use.

The Group, which was established in 1976, provides riding therapy to around 250 adults and children from throughout the Highlands.

Lessons are on offer six days a week when riders of all abilities are given the opportunity to extend their skills of riding and horse care under the supervision of highly-trained RDA volunteer instructors and helpers.

The new low-maintenance surface was installed with financial assistance from Inverness and Nairn Enterprise (INE), the Highland Council and the National Playing Fields Association.

Janie Thorburn, group organiser and instructor for the Highland Group RDA, said: "Our old riding school surface has served us well over the years, but it was becoming thin and dusty, which could be hazardous for horses, riders, instructors and helpers. 

"Technology has moved on and with the amount of usage our school has we felt we should go for the best. So, following the advice of international trainers and judges we settled on a gel track which is dust-free, and provides a springy surface for the horses to work on, which is less punishing to their joints. We are grateful to Inverness and Nairn Enterprise, the National Playing Fields Association and Highland Council, together with a substantial private donation which allowed us to make this much-needed improvement."

Stephanie Murray, development officer at INE, said: "The Highland Group RDA offers a valuable opportunity for those with both learning and physical disabilities to engage in horse riding within a safe and healthy environment. INE was delighted to assist towards this project which has provided the group with a much-improved facility, which will require minimal maintenance and future expenditure."