|
Sixteen intrepid students from classes 8 to 10 became the first group to complete a 30 kilometer bronze Duke of Edinburgh award - on horseback!
This expedition was achieved in partnership with Desempenho riding school who specialize in developing riding skills from complete beginners to competition level. Their highly trained Mangalarga horses were extremely patient as we learned how to brush and tack them and make sure they were ready to carry us safely. Their instructors also explained the theory behind developing a working relationship with a horse. One student was particularly struck by the riding instructor’s explanation of how ‘ horses have a soul’ and the consequent need to treat horses with respect rather than as a machine.
Everyone also rode in the riding school to make sure our basic riding skills were up to scratch for the first day of the expedition. The trail chosen combined beautiful Mata Atlântica forest trails around the back of Pedra do Colégio and some wider dirt roads in the municipality of Cachoerias de Macacu. It was tough, and one student remarked that he thought it was easier to walk 20 kilometers on foot than having the extra responsibility of looking after your horse!
The campsite was by a waterfall in Tocas, and luckily students were able to appreciate the starry night after the hard work of brushing down and massaging their horses sore backs with salt and putting their tent-errecting and camp cooking skills to the test!
Well done in particular to Henrique Franco, Paul Young and Diana Aude who completed their bronze on this expedition and to Antonia Moura who was able to help out less experienced riders along the trail. Also, a huge ‘thanks’ to Ms. Harry Davies and Mr. Dave Noon who participated so enthusiastically in both the trip and its preparation.
Ros Scholes
Expedtion Leader
For photographs of the expedition, see the site www.desempenho.esp.br |
