How horse simulators could help encourage people into riding

It is hoped the new model will help break down barriers to the sector for a wide range of people

- BECKY MURRAY

HORSE simulators could help boost participation and break down barriers in the industry.

Aberdeen Riding Club’s (ARC) new simulator, “Murphy” was bought by the Seven Incorporated Trades of Aberdeen and a private donor as a “community asset”. It is available to individuals and groups, including the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), private coaches, physios and hippotherapists, who provide physio treatment for people, involving horses.

ARC executive director and club manager Sally McCarthy, also British Horse Society (BHS) chair, discussed barriers to equestrianism, including riding school closures, skills shortage, accessibility and diversity and the costs involved.

“Murphy can work 24/7 and has lower running costs than a horse. We can make sessions considerably cheaper than a lesson on a horse,” she said, adding that the simulator will help address ARC’s 500-rider waiting list.

“New riders can be assessed on him and get straight into a group lesson rather than waiting for a private lesson.”