Riding for the Disabled
Isle of Man
200 Club

"RDA's aim is simple, to make a difference to the lives of disabled people in a very special way - by providing them with opportunities to ride or to carriage drive to benefit their health and well being"

About our group
We are part of a large organisation with roots going back to the early 20th century. The Isle of Man Group was formed in 1976 and from small beginnings has grown to involve some 70 riders, most of whom are children, and about 40 volunteers.

Happiness is evident on the faces of the riders. Four legs make mobility possible. From the elevated position on the back of a horse, riders have an opportunity to survey the world, looking down to their helpers, over hedgerows and into gardens - all ordinarily denied to any wheelchair-bound individual.

Our Riders/Drivers
Instructors and Physiotherapists work together with our riders. Children can start aged about five. Most disabilities are greatly helped by the movement of the horse, which is passed unknowingly to the rider; back muscles are strengthened and head control can be improved. With the friendly nature of the pony as a catalyst, exercises and games can be progressive and fun, so the therapeutic effect may be achieved without the rider being aware of it.

Making Progress
Some riders may take years to achieve independence on a horse - some will soon learn to ride and compete with able-bodied friends. For others the striving is very much a team effort and a strong sense of satisfaction is felt by all concerned.

Positive Gains
Confidence, balance and improved co-ordination. For disabled people whose days are often routine and indistinguishable. 'riding days are always special and exciting.

We rely entirely on fundraising, donations, legacies and grants to keep going and our 200 club will form another crucial key to our continued operation. So fill our application form today and help raise invaluable funds for our organisation! Thank you for your support.

Payment
You can choose either to pay £5 a month for 12 months (1 July -1 June inclusive) by standing order through your bank, or you can pay in one instalment of £60 in cash or cheque.

Draws
There will be 12 draws in the year July to June at the end of each month.

Prizes
The first number drawn will receive a prize of £200
The second number drawn will receive a prize of £100
The next four numbers will receive a prize of £25 each.

Eligibility
All numbers will be eligible for each monthly draw during the year. A participant who cancels his standing order at any time prior to the respective draws, or whose standing order is not met, will not be eligible for the draw following the date of cancellation or non payment or for any subsequent draw.

Membership
The maximum number of participants is 200 and the tickets will be issued in priority in the order in which the standing orders or payments are received. The promoter reserves the right to decline the acceptance of a participant without giving reason.

Notification
The winning participants will receive notification of the fact that they have won a prize within 7 days of the draw. Details of all winners will be compiled in a list at the end of the year.

How do I join?
Contact the Promoter: Mrs Maree Harper, 14 Derby Square, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 3LS for an application form.

Useful Telephone Numbers
Riding (01624) 843539 or (01624) 823892
Fundraising (01624) 851864
Driving (01624) 880755

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