Talk sport: Festival offers fun and support

The Para-Equestrian Festival is open to riders of all ages. Photo / NZME.

ParaFed Bay of Plenty is really proud to support the Para-Equestrian Festival being hosted from September 4-6 at the Tauranga Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).

It's a fantastic opportunity for riders of all abilities, including beginners to come together to learn, grow and have fun in an equestrian setting.

The festival offers coaching and support and will introduce new riders to the competition and pathways offered by Equestrian Sports New Zealand.

It's all about raising awareness of the possibilities in the sport and the technical support that's available while having fun at the same time.

Our very own CoachForce Officer, Zane Jensen, is heading down as a demonstration rider and will learn to work with a horse who responds to voice commands.

While Zane has experience in rodeo, he will be outside his comfort zone as he gives this a go.

"It will be great to have riders of different classifications get together and celebrate all that is Para-Equestrian. This will be one of the first events to happen nationwide, so I am proud to see Bay of Plenty leading the way," Zane said.

The Para-Equestrian Festival is open to riders of all ages. Horses are provided as well, so all you need to do is to come along.

There is a registration fee of $25, which includes everything you will need for the weekend.

For more information on the festival, contact Zane at zane@parafedbop.co.nz or email para@nzequestrian.org.nz.

Chloe Wickman is CEO of Parafed Bay of Plenty.