HorsePower’s Winter Games gives riders with disability an opportunity to compete

Horse riders of all abilities had their skills on show last weekend when 40 competitors from across the State competed at the HorsePower Winter Games in Collie.

Previously known as Riding for the Disabled, HorsePower created the event to bring people together in a fun and relaxed environment and give them a chance to put their skills to the test.

Collie manager Jo Williams said the event was a great way to give riders an opportunity to compete.

“It’s important to give our riders the opportunity to compete; some of the adult riders learned to ride here and it’s great to see them come back each year and show our volunteers what can be done,” she said.

“We nurture these people and give them the chance to learn but also to move on and develop.

“Some sports can be difficult for children with disabilities but a lot of those difficulties seem to evaporate when they’re on a horse and they can enjoy the challenge and competition.”

The event included showjumping, obstacle courses and arena games that were altered to cater for riders who require assistance so they can take part in a way that best suits their needs.

Among the competitors was 13-year-old Jason Watson, who took home a prize after working hard to perfect his coordination and riding skills with standardbred Little Red, from Off the Track WA.

HorsePower’s partnership with Racing and Wagering WA enables retired racehorses such as Little Red to be retrained and donated to organisations such as HorsePower to help people of all abilities fulfil their love of riding.

RWWA chief executive Ian Edwards said the program was a very humbling one to be a part of.

“It’s very rewarding to see our Off the Track WA program transform racehorses into therapy horses, who in turn transform the lives of people,” he said.

“We carefully select horses for HorsePower to match their needs and arrange specialist training for work with people who have physical, intellectual, emotional and social challenges.”