Help Upper Highway vaulters reach new heights
The vaulters are part of a non-profit organisation, Golden Wings, that hosts training sessions for disadvantaged children.
A GROUP of dedicated and enthusiastic children from The Valley of 1000 Hills, who train in equestrian vaulting, have qualified to compete in the Selbys SA Vaulting Champs at Galloping Winds Equestrian Centre in Ballito.
The championships will take place from Thursday, September 21 to Sunday, September 24.
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Golden Wings is the non-profit organisation that hosts training sessions for disadvantaged children, and its founder and the team’s instructor, Sonja Rahn, is passionate about empowerment.
“We are an equestrian yard situated near the Summerveld area. Our purpose is to take children from disadvantaged homes and mentor and train them in the beautiful equestrian sport of vaulting. This can be likened to gymnastics on horseback.”
They currently train a team of six children from the KwaNdengezi area. Most of them have been training with the NPO for a number of years.
She said it warms her heart to have watched them grow from shy, nervous children, terrified of horses, into strong, confident and responsible teenagers.
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“They have formed a strong team bond, developing loyalty, consideration and care for their teammates and their beautiful horses.
“The whole team will be competing, but we are especially excited that two of our vaulters have been selected for the KZN Team.
“This is a very big deal for these children. There are many costs involved in making this happen. Thus far, money has been donated for show entries, transport of the horse and stabling at the show.
“Thank you to all the people who have contributed. We still need to raise money for accommodation, food and hire of a vehicle to transport the team.”
She appealed to anyone to help these children get to the show and make their competition dreams come true.
To make a donation, contact Sonja Rahn on 076 020 9224.
Bank details:
Account name: Golden Wings
Bank: Standard Bank
Account number: 10117542871
Account type: Cheque
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