Horse Riding Camp

We were among several organisations invited to participate at the above camp organised by the Equestrian Training Center, Perak Turf Club from 12-16 January in lpoh. The purpose of horse riding camps is to expose children and to horses such that horse riding can be developed into a recreational sport in Malaysia. It is hoped that Malaysia will develop a broader base of riders to enable selection and development of potential riders for equine sports.

The objective of the camp was to provide participants with basic knowledge and skills in care and management of horses, ponies and their welfare, identification and care of riding equipment, preparation for horse riding and basic riding techniques. The program, limited to a maximum of 16 participants aged 8-18 years, involved two participants sharing a horse or pony and being in complete charge of its care throughout the 4-day camp. It is designed to develop better understanding and love of horses and in the process, participants are expected to develop a sense of discipline and responsibility, leadership qualifies and teamwork spirit.

Training included, among others, grooming and tacking up horses, feeding and bathing horses, cleaning up of stable area, preparing horses for riding, along with a demonstration on horse shoeing and visits to a veterinary clinic, horse swimming pool, rehabilitation centre for the disabled and the National Stud Farm.

Our presentation was done through educational videos entitled "Early Learning", "Understanding Horses" and "Safer Horsemanship". The camp was successful and we hope there will be opportunity for more horse riding camps in the near future.