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HORSES—DUST—THE SMELL OF LEATHER—ADRENALINE—GOOD FRIENDS
Come On…….You Know What I’m Talkin” About…….
COMPETITION!!!!!!
By Cathy Brunson
You’re sitting in the bleachers, between events, just watching people meander by and notice a couple riders striding across the arena. They’re sorta dusty and sweat streaked; jawing about a hard ride around the barrels. One feller slaps the other on the back and exhorts; “Nice Ride!”. But that smile says it all—it’s so big it could reach from Farmington to Carlsbad!
Sound like a scene you’d observe at any High School rodeo or maybe at your local gymkhana? That, my friend, is also the scene you would observe at any Special Olympics Equestrian practice or competition. Just a group of guys and gals who love to ride horses and have a driving desire to compete. And the benefits for these riders are enormous!
You have most likely heard of Special Olympics. Well, Equestrian is one of the 12 Olympic-type sports offered by Special Olympics of New Mexico to children and adults with intellectual disabilities who deserve to live the message of inclusion, acceptance, possibility and hope. Volunteer coaches, horse handlers, and parents help accomplish this task along with the generosity of folks who lend their horses to these special riders. Free of charge.
There are Special Olympic Equestrian teams throughout New Mexico. These teams are not social clubs or therapeutic riding programs; but year-round training and competition programs. Though, riding horses can provide a combination of sensory, motor, physical and neurological input for riders, our main focus is training for life through sports. All athletes are required to engage in an extensive training program for a minimum of eight weeks prior to competition. Riders are classified by abilities and include: A Riders (no speed limitations), B Independent Riders (walk or trot only), B Supported Riders (walk or trot with assistance), C Independent Riders (walk only), C Supported Riders (walk only with assistance), D Riders (walk on lead line with side walkers).
As these riders develop riding skills they also grow physically, mentally, and socially. Riders increase physical fitness and gain new abilities and talents while grooming, tacking, and learning horsemanship. One example of how riding horses can literally transform the physical body is proven by one young man who was born with no muscular strength. While therapies proved invaluable, his interest in riding and competing on horseback gave him an avenue by which to gain strength and have fun. Said rider has gone on to compete in the Special Olympics International Equestrian Games in Ireland!!
From a parent’s perspective of a Special Olympian rider, I appreciate the mental challenges that are overcome through riding horses and training for competition. As my daughter learned and practiced over and over again the patterns for running Barrels, Pole Bending, Figure Eight Stake Race and Working Trail her mental capacities were challenged and improved. As a benefit, she also learned to be determined, persistent, courageous, responsible, and became self-confident. Her listening skills improved and her patience was tested as she learned and practiced for Stock Seat Equitation and Showmanship in Halter Class. Right now all you parents are wanting a phone number for this amazing program, right?? Visit www.sonm.org or call 800-371-5525 or 505-856-0342 for more information.
