The Friendship Cafe
a project of GymNation - registered charity no. 1098562
Pony Care & Riding Project
Our Pony care and riding project is a chance for children who would otherwise not have the chance, to learn the basics of riding and horse care over a series of 10 sessions. After the 10 sessions, the trainees can join local stable as volunteers and progress their newly learnt skills.
Riding a horse or pony is a distant dream for most people. 'Too expensive' or 'only for posh or rich people' is the assumption by many who may have an interest but don't have a clue where to start. That's how this project has started with a generous grant fom the Gloucestershire County Council Youth Capital Fund and the willingness of our young volunteers and the support of organisations with the necessary skills such as Hartpury College and SG Equestrian centre.
It's not all fun and games - there's a lot of poo to be picked. Each horse does about 18kilos of poo a day. There's water buckets to be filled, bedding to be made and saddles to be cleaned.
'Charlie' (above)
Welsh pony.
How do I find out more?
Contact Imran on
(01452) 308127
(be warned there is a long waiting list)
Please Read
Unfortunately, we don't have a project planned for adults (yet) but we suggest one of the established private riding schools who we use, for our children, during holiday times.
www.samgossequestrian.co.uk
(Below) a demonstration by instructor Sam 'Centaur' Goss from SG Equestrian Centre of 'tent-pegging' - a skill requiring the rider to shoot balloons, stab a piece of wood and lance a circle whilst galloping full speed.
Ibrahim sitting on 'Brig'
