All smiles at local RDA group awards
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Local pupils have been enjoying weekly visits to the Caithness Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Group over the last school term.
Mounted sessions have now resumed at the RDA base at the indoor school, Halkirk. From August through to the October holidays riders from three local schools have been attending, with coaching provided by Leeann Hope.
Although some volunteers were not able to return after lockdown, the group were very fortunate to welcome three new helpers over the course of the sessions.
Liz Hewitson, one of the coaches, said: "Children were all delighted to return to horse riding where it is fun, therapy and enjoyment for them.
"As the minibuses of children pulled up outside the indoor school each week you just saw their faces light up."
Five ponies were used throughout the term – Wren from Marie Holland, Cammie from Mel Thomson, Chico from Susan Sutherland and Max and Charlie from Marion Bain, Achalone Activities.
At the conclusion of the August-October sessions each rider received a sash and a shield. Irene Morris, one of the volunteers, presented the sashes, made by Gwen's Rosettes, to rides one and two, while Marion Bain made the presentation to ride three.
Results
Ride 1 – Dr Pam McMorran Memorial Shield for best rider (summer show): Charlie Cooke. Honey Trophy for achievement: Gabi Yordanova. Melody Shield for most improved: Dylan Forbes. Barbara Farmer Memorial Shield for endeavour: Finn Mackenzie. Joan Treglowan Memorial Shield for effort: James Campbell.
Ride 2 – J Treglowan Memorial Shield for achievement (summer show): James Collier. Dr Pam McMorran Memorial Shield for most improved (summer show): Finlay Beresford. Alice Pirie Memorial Shield for effort: Nathan Bell. J Tregowlan Memorial Shield for endeavour: Teegan Cannop. Shield presented by Liz Hewitson for best rider: Isabell Montgomery.
Ride 3 – Curlew Shield for effort: Jakob Taylor. J Treglowan Memorial Shield for endeavour: Ollie Jones. Jingle Shield for best rider: Kayden Malcolm. Wick High School YPI Shield for achievement: Jenny Carson. J Treglowan Memorial Shield for most improved: Charley Macgregor.
