The youngest wannabee horse riders in Kyalami enjoyed a morning of free lessons and games on pony back at Silver Tree Stables.
The stables hosted its open day under a warm and sunny morning on 3 August.
The purpose of the free event was to raise awareness about what the stables offers to the community, as well as helping youngsters build a passion for horses.
They were successful in this because children as young as three years old got to walk, or even trot across the yard, play gymkhana games that included races, carry water on horseback and paint horseshoes.
Smiles and giggles of excitement rang out all morning as this was going on, and parents got in on the action to play with their children.
Some children could hardly contain their joy as they got to be like real cowboys and cowgirls. All of this was perfectly safe, though.
Young accomplished riders and adults ensured the youngsters were either led or offered a helping hand whenever necessary.
“The highlight for me was to see the first-timers have huge smiles when their ponies trotted and they bounced all over the place,” said stables owner, Michelle Dawson.
“It was the first time we had an open day and it was a really fun day. We will definitely host this again next year.”
Dawson added that it bade well for equestrian sports that an event open to all could attract so many children interested in horses.
Details: Silver Tree Stables silvert@mweb.co.za; 073 503 3000.
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