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Michael with Midnight the horse

Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center Ends Spring      Session

                              Summer Riding Available

It was an extremely busy spring session as fifty-seven very special riders, twenty-five volunteers, and riding instructors, worked on a set of goals for the ten week session.  Physical, occupational, and speech therapists, along with six exceptional horses were an essential part of the session.  Riders, worked on balance, muscle tone, following directions, self-confidence, retention, speech, and riding skills.  ATRC opened their doors on March 5^th to start the spring session with a group from Deyton Elementary School.  Over the following weeks groups from Gouge Elementary, Bowman Middle, Burnsville Elementary, Cane River Middle, and Mountain Heritage, along with over 15 individual riders joined in the fun and activities of riding and grooming the horses. 

ATRC began the session by saying goodbye to three wonderful equines that had served nobly.  Over the winter, Lady, Belle, and Rhula, were laid to rest in the pasture overlooking the center. Thanks to the help from the Mountain Aire Pilot’s Association, three new equines, Midnight, Charlie, and Tony joined the team and are learning about the special jobs they perform. 

Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center is fully accredited by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association.   ATRC is a non-profit organization located in the beautiful South Toe River Valley of Yancey County.  Horseback riding is a widely recognized form of therapy for children and adults with mental, emotional, physical or learning disabilities.  The atmosphere is neither competitive nor clinical but one of pleasure and accomplishment. 

Summer session 2008 will begin June16th.  This session will target riders with all types of learning or behavioral disabilities.  If you know a qualifying child who would like to ride, this is a great chance to get started.   Also for the first time, ATRC is offering lessons for anyone wishing to learn about horses.  These will be regular one-hour riding lessons.  For information on riding, volunteering, or to register for lessons call 675-4371.  ATRC is an agency of the Yancey County United Fund. 

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This page was last updated on Monday, 09 June 2008 11:08 AM