Cat (17) joined Isle of Man RDA in September 2024 when she was 15 years old.
What began as a participant experience quickly became something much bigger. Through RDA, Cat found a place where she feels safe, supported, and able to be herself. Living with anxiety, Cat says RDA has become one of the most important parts of her life. It has helped her grow in confidence, improve her physical wellbeing, and connect with people of all ages through a shared love of horses.
After several months as a participant, Cat’s enthusiasm and dedication led her to become a volunteer in January 2025.
Arriving early for sessions because she never wanted her time at RDA to end, she began learning how to tack up the horses
before taking on a regular volunteering role alongside her riding.
Every Friday, Cat spends her evening at RDA helping prepare horses for sessions, leading during lessons, and taking part in her own
riding sessions. Her favourite horse is Junior,
whom she especially enjoys grooming and riding.
“Horses and RDA have given me something to look forward to every week. Spending time with the horses, especially Junior, makes me so happy. I love grooming them and being around them. The horses help me forget about everything else and just enjoy the moment.”
RDA has also had a positive impact on Cat’s physical health. Riding has helped strengthen her leg muscles, which supports her mobility and helps manage ongoing knee pain, while keeping her active in a way she enjoys. The friendships and connections she has made through RDA have also been life- changing.
“I’ve been able to meet new people of all ages, have fun with them and enjoy conversations with them. The volunteers are amazing and make me feel seen and heard in ways I never have before. I know that when I’m at RDA, I’m in a judgement-free environment where everyone wants to help participants thrive.”
This year, Cat will be competing at her first RDA National Championships. Having previously taken part in the 2025 Virtual National Championships and successfully qualifying through Regional Championships, she is looking forward to experiencing the
excitement of the national event for the first time.
Qualifying was an achievement she is incredibly proud of. Competing at Regionals brought new challenges, including riding an
unfamiliar horse in a new environment, but it also showed her how much she has grown in confidence.
Cat’s journey to the RDA National Championships reflects the confidence, friendship, opportunity and sense of belonging that RDA creates. As both a participant and volunteer, she embodies the
spirit of the RDA community and is proud to represent Isle of Man RDA on the national stage.
Supporting a Summer of Inclusion
As RDA shines a spotlight on inclusion this summer, the new vaulting barn represents an exciting new opportunity for disabled children and adults to participate, develop new skills, and experience the many benefits of equestrian activity.
For many disabled children, summer can bring additional barriers to participation, with fewer accessible activities and opportunities to spend time outdoors, build confidence, and connect with others.
Facilities such as the new vaulting barn help create more inclusive opportunities throughout the year, ensuring that disabled children and adults can access activities that promote wellbeing, achievement, and belonging.
This summer, RDA is encouraging supporters to help make inclusion possible for more disabled children and families.
Join us in creating a Summer of Inclusion, so no disabled child is left in the shade.
Donate today and help more people experience the confidence, connection, and opportunities that RDA makes possible.
