Kinross High School hitting the
heights.
A project
of 8 weeks duration to help a group of
youngsters from Kinross High certainly hit the high spots by the final
session. A mix of 8 girls and boys with
no equine experience were offered the opportunity to try their hand at
Equestrian vaulting or ‘gymnastics on horseback’. The outcomes were to learn
about looking after their horse, working as a team and growing in confidence
and self-esteem.
These
targets were hit with a bang.
Using the
facilities at Easterton Farm near Gleneagles, and the Eagles Group vaulting
horses, in the short time allotted they achieved the first level of team
competition with compulsory exercises carried out in canter and a freestyle
with 2 on the horse together in walk. What a tremendous result.
Ann Hunt
the course leader and Level 3 vaulting coach was most impressed at the way the
group developed over the 8 weeks. There was a great improvement in listening
skills, communication skills, co-ordination, balance, flexibility and general
physical fitness. They also showed a great understanding of the value of team
work especially to their most important team member, the vaulting horse.
All those
attending the course received certificates of achievement.
The project
was coordinated by the Perth and Kinross Sports Development Officer, Caroline
Laurie. Any members of staff who attended were very impressed and it is hoped
that this was the start of some great opportunities for youngsters to get close
to a real live horse in a very safe and structured environment.
Ann Hunt
MBE Vaulting Coach