from The Southland Times (dated 08Nov10)

Disabled Wanaka riders are banking on success in a competition this month to help in their quest for qualification for the New Zealand Special Olympics next year.

Members of the Wanaka Riding for the Disabled Association had an intense training day at the Timber Creek Equestrian Centre's hilltop arena last week in preparation for the Special Olympics Ribbon Day to be held at the Cardrona Valley facility later this month.

Mount Aspiring College students Anna Freeman, 16, and Morgan James, 19, hope success at the event will enable them to qualify for the New Zealand Special Olympics taking place in Dunedin in February.

Association chairwoman Julie Nicholson said the ribbon day on November 17, featuring a barrel race and working trail event, would follow a similar affair being held in Mosgiel next week.

About 15 riders were expected to attend from Wanaka, Alexandra and Queenstown.

"The emphasis is most definitely on fun but being a Special Olympics qualifier really gives people something to strive for," Ms Nicholson said.

For the working trail, riders would negotiate a series of obstacles and complete various tasks, such as picking up objects and placing them in buckets, while the barrel race would be a timed negotiation of a cloverleaf course.

"Riders will compete in different sections relevant to their ability. Those eligible, who win their sections will then have the opportunity compete in the Special Olympics in Dunedin next year," Ms Nicholson said.

While some, like James, could ride unassisted, others would require side walkers and people to lead their mounts.

Although only intellectually disabled competitors were eligible to qualify for the Special Olympics, the ribbon day would be open to all association members in the district.

James said she had been practising for the Special Olympics with ex-racehorse Shaun since last year.

"It is very, very exciting. The barrel race will be my favourite." she said.