Riding for the disabled

We have done several projects for Riding for the Disabled in the past.

This project came about as they have, in the past, had to cancel riding therapy sessions whenever it rained, which is disruptive to the riders and is a roadblock to their development. 
 
Now that the roof is complete, they are seeing huge benefits in the Summer months. It is far more comfortable to work in the shade it provides, and they look forward to not cancelling riding once the rain returns. They decided to use a SmartShelter because the cost is much lower compared to a full building. Secondly, the disruption to their riding programmes was minimal as the construction was scheduled during the holidays.

The Coach and regular volunteers enjoy working under the roof in Summer. It’s far cooler, there’s always a gentle breeze, and, with their sprinkler system (used to dampen down the arena surface), it’s an ideal riding environment. 

• INSTALL DATE: 2023
• SIZE: 32m wide x 55.7m long  x 3m side height

President Kevin Nielsen says they are very happy with their SmartShelter, which has hugely improved conditions. It has made it so much better for riders, staff, and volunteers, and they have had a lot of good feedback. It is their only covered arena, and they also rent it out to local organizations.

They looked at other projects with SmartShelters and were impressed. They are located in a gully with natural bush around them. The installation had some challenges with drilling difficulties, but they found a solution with the SmartShelters team using plastic-type shears around the poles. The installation was done in the planned timeframe during the Christmas/New Year break, and it worked out well. Overall, they are very happy with the installation and product.

• INSTALL DATE: 2009
• SIZE: 26m wide x 46m long x 3m side height

The horse arena at the Dunedin RDA is filled with a sand-rubber mix, and it features a roof with lighting, making it perfect for Dunedin’s challenging weather conditions. It also features fenced sides, covered yards, and toilets.

They use the facility and also rent it out, with all proceeds going towards running their classes for people experiencing disabilities.

• INSTALL DATE: 2018
• SIZE: 30m wide x 50m long x 3.5m side height

The SmartShelter at the RDA in Tauranga is their secondary arena, and General Ma­nager Elisha Olds says there is no noise when it rains compared to their other steel roof-covered arena.

It is very nice in summer and winter. The open sides make it airy and light.

• INSTALL DATE: 2019
• SIZE: 20m wide x 40m long x 3m side height