volunteer driving for the RDA

[shysmum]

Hello,

I am a volunteer for the Riding for the Disabled, and on thursday I'm going on a course to learn the basics of driving ;D.

I'm quite nervous as it's all new to me, tho I have borrowed two picture guides about starting to drive, and am slowly plowing through them, and have just about sussed the harness out !

The centre where I help out have some lovely driving horses, and a cart, all ready for use - I'm so looking forward to being able to be part of it. The driving is to take out clients who cannot ride, and apparently there is quite a lot of interest for when it gets going.

Does anyone here have experience working for the RDA driving ? Would be a help to chat with someone. I'm under no illusions that it can be picked up quickly, but am going to give it my best shot. I expect it'll lead to me wanting to drive my boy - more expense

Shysmum x

[harleydales]

We are looking at starting driving with our RDA riders but haven't got that far yet. I think the main thing is to be calm, quiet and patient - and be prepared to be amazed by the RDA drivers.

Re driving - watch carefully and don't be afraid to ask questions. I taught Harley to drive from scratch on my own and did most of it from books and DVDs with some timely help here and there from experienced drivers.

Have a lovely tiime and enjoy it!

[shysmum]

Thanks so much ! i am so looking forward to it

I'll report back how it goes. I have visions of everyone being safely on board, me getting things going, and the cart being left stnding there...

[harleydales]

LOL, I'm sure it'll be fine and you'll get totally hooked!

[harveydales]

Well done for volunteerng. I've no idea what will be involved but I sometimes meet our local group out driving through the woods and they all seem to be having tremendous fun. Lovely to see.

[tomasnrichy]

Hi , i have no experience in this area , just wanted to wish you loads of luck! thinks its great what you are doing regards Richy

[shysmum]

I cannot recommend volunteering enough - we all have a ball

It just gives so much pleasure to people who otherwise wouldn't get near to horses, and it's physical therapy for them too. I also love the fact that the horses (including several dales) are just so amazing, and can even cope if a client has an epileptic fit whilst riding.

The carriage driving will be another dimension to it all.