For Immediate Release      For more information:

May 2, 2009 10 AM – 2 PM      John Van Zante

EVENT FOR COVERAGE      858-756-4117 X 335 

Out of the Wheelchair and Into the Saddle! 

Rancho Santa Fe, CA – Wheel Chairs, leg braces, and any means possible will be used to carry riders into the arena when Therapeutic Riding students perform in Helen Woodward Animal Center’s annual Horse show… “Derby Day”… this Saturday, May 2 from 10:00 am to (approximately) 2:00 pm.  

The 41 riders with varying degrees of physical and mental challenges will perform in nine different groups. They will be divided into three separate skill sets; Equitation, Dressage, and Jumping. Each activity allows the riders to display their abilities. Following each program Helen Woodward Animal Center spokesman John Van Zante will present each rider with a blue ribbon in honor of his or her participation.  

Therapeutic Riding Manager Alicia Roe says, “Many of these kids spend their weekends watching siblings play baseball or soccer. This weekend their brothers and sisters watch them be the stars of the show.” Roe says the event gives the riders an opportunity to show their families the progress they have made. She points out that HWAC’s Therapeutic Riding program was the first NARHA (North American Riding for Handicapped Association) Accredited program in San Diego County.  

While the show is a very happy event, there are always a few tears shed as proud parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends gather to support the riders.   

Roe says the show brings out the best in the riders. “This gives them an opportunity to show-off a little bit and to demonstrate what they’ve learned. The riders really look forward to the show each year. We’re very proud of them.”  

Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Therapeutic Riding arena is located at Oakridge Farm, 8960 Detwiler Road, Escondido (just off Del Dios Highway). For more information about the program call 760-432-9200.

MEDIA NOTE: This is a great event for coverage with mentally and physically challenged riders, their parents, horses, and interview opportunities.

We do not have photo releases for 6 of the riders. These riders will be wearing bright ribbons. Check with John Van Zante for confirmation.

Thanks to Deb Spring for returning as our Mistress of Ceremonies!