SOUTH African Riding for the Disabled Association (SARDA) based in Assagay is determined to carry on, despite having lost all their valuable saddles and bridles when thieves broke into their secure tack room last week.
The theft was a huge blow for the charity which provides beneficial riding therapy to numerous disabled children in the highway area.
The break-in happened overnight and the thieves came well- prepared to access the secure tack room. Fiona Muhl, chairman for SARDA Durban said that the tack room security had recently been upgraded but this hadn’t stopped them from cutting through the steel cage and removing the tack.
“It’s a fact of life, that if they want in, they’ll get in. Fortunately, no harm was caused to the ponies and horses stabled in the barn alongside the tack room,” said Muhl.
They are determined to continue their therapeutic riding programme which has become such an integral part of the lives of the special needs children who attend these classes. Due to the kindness of neighbours who have lent their personal tack and by riding bareback, the sessions have been able to continue.
“We are grateful to friends and neighbours who have come to the rescue with the loan of temporary equipment until the saddles are recovered or new or second hand equipment in good condition can be sourced,” said Muhl.
Anyone with information needs to contact the Hillcrest Police Station where a docket has been opened. Those wishing to assist in anyway should contact Fiona Muhl at durban@sarda.coza or visit www.sardadurban.org.za.
