Since 1952, when Polio victim and rider, Lis Hartel won an Olympic Silver medal, therapeutic riding has devoloped worldwide as therapy for individuals with a variety of physical and/ or mental disabilities. Jim Brady is currently a spokesman for therapeutic riding and he has been riding since his recovery from a gunshot wound he received during the assasination attempt on President Reagan in 1991. Theraputic riding programs exist in every state under the guidance of the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA).

 In 1985, Rita Mendal began Special Equestrians at Oak MountainRiding School with five riders, ten volunteers and instructor Pam Abdulla.Since that time,the program has grown to include eightyeight riders, two instructors and over 100 volunteers. Special Equestrians lease their own riding facility. It is located on the beautiful campus of Indian Springs School on Highway 119.

 For people with disabilities, time spent on horseback is much more than a relaxing afternoon ride. On horseback, those with physical impairments can experiance a freedom of motion not attainable on the ground. Riding both stimulates and relaxes muscle groups, builds muscle tone and can improve balance and coordination. Another advantage is the beatiful countryside and scenery the students get to experiance while riding the horse.

 In addition to the warmth and security of close physical contact, therapeutic riding also gives the rider opportunnities to strive for new goals and can help develop concentration and self discipline. During a riding class , social and language skills also seem to prosper. And finally the opportunity to bond with and control a horse can have a lasting positive impact upon self-esteem.
 
 

Student Information

 Special Equestrians, Inc. was created to offer any physically, mentally or emotionally challenged person the opportunity to experiance the benefits of therapeutic horseback riding. All riders must have a physican's referral to be eligible. The program serves all disabilities, within the guidelines set by NARHA. Sessions typically run eight weeks in the fall and spring on Saturdays and Sundays. However, there are a few weekday classes year around. All classes are held at our riding facility at Indian Springs School. You may call 205-987-9462 to receive upcoming session dates or fill out the information request form attached and E-mail it. We will be glad to send you any information you need.
 
 

Volunteer Opportunities

 Volunteers are an essential part of our programm. Many of the volunteers work directly with the riders. Without these "Side-walkers","Leaders" and "Back-riders", the students would not be able to ride. Volunteers can also participate in the day-to-day operations of the program. No horse experiance is necassary. There are many committees that need volunteers such as Fund-raising, Recruiting, and Public Relations to name a few. We need your help!! Please call 205-987-9462 for more information or fill out and E-MAIL the information card that is attached.
 
 

Funding

 Special Equestrians is a non profit organization providing therapeutic horseback riding to disabled children and adults. We are funded exclusively through fund-raising events and the generosity of others. We gratefully accept all gifts including monetary contributions and supplies. All donations are tax deductible. For more information call 205-987-9462 or e-mail
Kathi Claybrook