Power of Polo and Diamond Centre RDA visit us in Teddington
We love welcoming visitors, but this was extra special. Power of Polo is a charity which exists to improve the lives of people facing social, economic or health challenges. The Diamond Centre RDA are good friends of Park Lane Stables, everyone looks forward to our reciprocal visits.
On this occasion POP and RDA collaborated to bring together three groups of young participants with one big thing in common – their love of horses. So what was it like? Natalie takes up the story:
“Two participants from Diamond Centre absolutely loved meeting and riding different horses, and our participants absolutely loved hosting the visitors. For the POP people it was their first time riding with two hands! (That had to be easier, right?)
The young people bonded so well, their shared love of horses gave them the confidence to just get stuck in. We gave them autonomy to get the horses ready together which was the best thing to do, getting the adults out the way! The Park Laners proudly showed off their favourite horses and it really empowered them to be given the responsibility of showing the visitors around and teaching them new skills.
Throughout the day, participants spent time riding, caring for the horses, and supporting each other, building confidence, sharing experiences, and forming new friendships. The whole day just had the best energy and all the coaches said they saw their young people grow in some way and really benefit from the activity.
We will be going to Guards Polo on 19 June to see the POP guys play in a match and have a day out which will be great fun.”
“These horses felt quite different and normal horse riding was really different to polo! Riding is so therapeutic; it’s calming, it’s chilling ... you can just get on a horse, be yourself and relax.”
Isiah, Power of Polo participant
“At first I was nervous to be in an entirely new place with people I’d never seen before and horses I’d never ridden, but the entire day was fun and calm at the same time. It was great to get to know people from different areas and share our stories and interests. And by the end of it I’d made a new friend thanks to this amazing opportunity.”
Alicia, Diamond Centre RDA participant
“I really enjoyed learning from a different group with a shared passion for horses. I felt confident sharing my knowledge and proud to be showing off the ponies I love at Park Lane.”
Josiah, Park Lane participant and volunteer
A spokesperson for the RDA said:
“Days like this demonstrate what can be achieved through collaboration, opening up opportunities, breaking down barriers, and helping young people to reach their full potential. A huge thank you to everyone involved in making the day so special.”
With new friendships forged, we see more polo featuring in our lives in the future!
Read more about Power of Polo and The Diamond Centre