MORE than 100 RDA Ireland volunteers recently celebrated 55 years since the organisation started in 1969, at their National Conference in Mullingar. Their energy and enthusiasm were palpable on the day, and many of them have been involved in the organisation for 20 years and more.

This annual gathering is an opportunity to acknowledge the continued work of volunteers with the presentation of badges for 10, 20, 30 and 40 years of service, although many would say that their reward is to see the difference RDAI can make for the riders and their families.

This year, groups were offered the opportunity to put forward a rider for the “Best Participant Award”. This was a difficult decision for the judges and led to two riders, Shane from Kells, and Colin from Carrickmines, each receiving an award. Unfortunately, Colin wasn’t able to attend the conference to be presented with his award, but he received it when he attended his next riding session. The above photo shows Shane with his proud grandparents.

Emma Golding, who started her passion for carriage-driving with RDAI after a life-changing riding accident 20 years ago, was the guest speaker. Emma, who is an international para carriage driver and equestrian mindset coach, is currently completing her PhD at UCD Veterinary Dept. and in full-time employment in UCD. Her courage and determination are truly inspirational, and she deservedly received a standing ovation at the end of her presentation.

Beryl McMullin of the Brennanstown group receiving her 40-year award

Grainne Tinney, Clinical Manager/Speech Therapist and Kevin Treacy, Senior Clinical Psychologist from Prosper Meath, gave a very informative presentation on autism, giving further insight to the volunteers on how the world is perceived by people with this condition.

Three TY students, who help at the Kells group, were also in attendance. They love the experience they gain from working with volunteers and riders, as Amy wrote in a testimonial:

“I had very little experience of horses before joining, so I was extremely hesitant at first. I was warmly welcomed and treated with nothing but respect by the volunteers and riders... seeing the difference horse riding makes to the riders left me feeling so emotional and amazed.

“I feel like joining the RDAI has made me a more positive and outgoing person, as I had to push myself out of my comfort zone by trying something completely different.”

Julia Watson is stepping down as Chair of Training, and RDAI couldn’t thank her enough for the time and the expertise she has brought to this role in such a calm and gentle manner. Luckily, she intends to stay on as coach in the St Laserian’s Group near Carlow. Margaret Walsh MISCP/hippotherapist/therapeutic riding coach from Galway will be taking over from Julia.

The “Sponsor a Rider” scheme piloted last year has now financially supported five riders around the country, giving individuals the opportunity to horse ride when access to an RDAI group is unavailable. Donations to this fund are always welcomed.

RDAI are currently recruiting Board members, volunteers, and riding centres who would welcome an RDAI group. Further information can be found at rdaireland.org or by contacting Dilys Lindsay: rdaisecretary@gmail.com