What started as a horse-riding hobby for Karin Vermeulen turned into a popular equestrian centre in Honeydew.
Harveston Equestrian Centre is a horse-riding centre with 14 horses, started by Vermeulen 15 years ago.
She said it was created out of love and passion for horses. The centre caters to riders of all ages and levels but its main focus is children, and for this reason they have many smaller horses.
“Children as young as two visit the centre for riding,” she said.
Vermeulen said they are not an overly competitive centre, however, they do have some riders who do compete.
“We hold internal shows, and compete in outside shows and the inter-school league,” she said.
She said they ask parents to watch their children showcasing their horse jumping and dressage talents.
For people with muscle problems and cannot walk, horse riding is good therapy.
“We work with so many local schools, including special needs schools,” she said.
Vermeulen said there’s a lot of work, as taking care of horses is not an easy job.
Joseph Phiri is a caretaker for the horses.”Every morning, Phiri brushes the horses, gives them food, water, and prepares them before our riders arrive.”
She said it is again Phiri who makes sure the horses take a rest and sleep comfortably at night.
Vermeulen said to qualify as a horse rider at the centre, they conduct assessments and trials to qualify.
Details: Harveston Equestrian Centre, 084 509 2802.
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