Special moments at the HorsePower Winter Games in Collie

More than 40 riders, of all ages and abilities, descended on Collie recently for the 2023 HorsePower Winter Games. HorsePower, an organisation which champions horse riding for people with disabilities, provided a series of exciting events for all riders to participate in. “It’s important to give our riders the opportunity to compete,” HorsePower Collie president Jo Williams said. “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. “We nurture these people and give them the chance to learn but also to move on and develop. “Some of the riders here are assisted and some ride independently but the focus is always on ability rather than disability so each person competes in the way and at the pace that suits them. “There’s show jumping, a big undercover arena for games and forest trails with obstacle courses.” Williams also believes there’s more to the concept than the overall result of where each rider finishes. “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,” she said. “The movement of the horse is great for developing core strength, improved balance and confidence.” Thirteen-year-old Jason Wilson received a courage prize at the event, and formed a strong bond with a retired racehorse, “Little Red”, during competition.