Riding for the Disabled is a non profit, voluntary organisation which provides free therapeutic and riding for sport tuition and other activities associated with riding for people with disabilities. The organisation was established by a mother of a disabled child in 1973 and has been operating from its leased premises in the Constantia Valley since 1983.

We are closely associated with the South African National Equestrian Federation, Western Province Horse Society and are full members of the Federation of Riding for the Disabled International.

Instructors are qualified under the National Instructor Accreditation System. They have skills in horsemastership, disabilities, safety, medical knowledge, first aid, teaching as well as the selection and training of horses. We also have qualified and experienced people in the fields of occupational therapy, special education and physiotherapy.

Fun and recreation are important components of the lessons, but all pupils are taught to ride to the best of their ability - our riders have won gold and silver medals at the Special Olympics and others are working towards the paralympics. Instructors work in close co-operation with physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, remedial teachers and doctors to ensure that each pupil receives maximum benefit.

Some riders with more severe disabilities are assisted initially by two side walkers and a leader, however many graduate to riding independently and some compete at local shows in both able and disabled classes. The classes are varied and include the use of games, music, co-ordination exercises, trail rides and competition. Reports from various schools and centres testify to the importance SARDA plays in all aspects of the pupils' mental, physical and social lives as well as their rehabilitation.

The Cape Town centre provides riding therapy to 200 children every week from 12 different schools and centres. In Riding A Horse, We Borrow Freedom.