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About the BRP
The Blind Rider Program is an extension of Stapell’s mobility adventures. Whether you are new to vision-loss or you are a veteran VIP, were once a rider or are deathly afraid of horses, workshops are tailored to your specific experience needs and wishes.
Upcoming Events
On the books for 2021 are some Australian horse adventures potentially in the Kimberly region, Margaret River, Tasmania. These will include O&M, support work and the practical use of mobility training we’ve been working on with you.
Testimonials
“Mary is such an experienced horsewoman. In her global experience, you feel like you are really getting top quality training whether you wanted to go Paralympic or trail ride.” - Anna Kasec
Want More Information?
Not sure what it’s all about? Contact us to talk more about if this program aligns with your current goals.
Meet the Herd
- April - is a 16.3 hand, 16-year-old Warmblood, April has done it all. From upper level dressage to stadium showjumping, April is a quiet school horse to work with on the ground for new riders and an experienced riding horse for our advanced riders. She can be ridden at walk/trot/canter for novice riders. She is typically ridden by staff as our lead/guide horse.
- Dakota’s Diva - “Diva,” as she has been affectionately named by the people who work around her, is a 5-year-old Australian Stock Horse x Thoroughbred cross. She has a Labrador like personality and is still learning about the world. Dakota is great to work with on the ground for our more experienced riders and is a good beginner horse to learn on in the arena for walk/trot work.
- Silver Invitation aka “Ice” is a purebred Quarter Horse mare, 5-years-old and unicorn white! She is owned by Rowena Dowling and generously offered to the BRP for new riders to learn on.
Frequently Asked Questions
”I am a wheelchair user. Would I be able to ride with you?”
The BRP currently only works with participants who have a primary disability of vision-loss. Unlike RDA (Riding for the Disabled), our services at Stapell focus solely on vision-loss as this is where our expertise lies.
“I know many riding places have a weight limit. Does Stapell have a weight limit for the BRP?”
Yes and no. Stapell’s riding weight limit for the BRP is around 80kgs. However, our activity weight limit is nonexistent. We have many participants who are over the 80kg limit to ride that still do all of the groundwork training with the horses. This is just as important as riding.