Top equestrian athletes will be able to train their horses while studying.
Massey University students, particularly those who study equine, veterinarian, animal and biomedical sciences, will be able to train their animals at a new all-weather facility being established at the Palmerston North campus.
Up to 15 horses will also be able
to graze in paddocks outside the new equine high performance centre, due to be completed by the end of the month.
"The purpose of the all-weather riding arena is dual - students wanting to take their horses to university may now be able to do so and top riders have further incentive to study at Massey where they can train and compete, while getting an education," university spokesman Caleb Hulme-Moir said.
Chris Rogers, a lecturer at the Institute of Veterinary Animal and Biomedical Sciences, hopes the new centre will attract more top equestrian riders to study.
"In the past it has been difficult for them to bring their horses and to continue to train while studying," he said. "For a number of years, Massey has been involved in running rider and coach development programmes ... A practical component can now be added to this service."
- NZPA
