
Q What led you to be involved with North Otago Riding for the Disabled?
A When I retired from working life, I wanted to do volunteer work that involved working outside with people — especially young people — and animals.
Since I knew one of my tramping friends was working at the Riding for the Disabled I went there first to have a look and see if I liked it. I had never worked with horses before and I absolutely loved it, I never looked back.
Q How long have you been involved?
A I have been with the group for nine years now.
Q What made you want to give back to sport in North Otago?
A I feel it is a privilege to be able to do this work. One of the best rewards is when the clients achieve their goals and after a riding session go back to school or home with a big smile on their faces.
Q What is your favourite part about being involved with these clubs?
A My favourite part with the group is working together as a great team.
Also I am grateful for all the courses that were offered to me and the group (the courses are ongoing), I learned so much from them. I also really love to look after our horses and do some work with them.
Q Do you compete yourself? If so, could tell me a few highlights from your career?
A I don’t compete in sport to do with horses, but I did learn to ride one.
I did compete in another sport, namely ballroom dancing together with my husband, we did have some highlights, some wins in the masters games.