In February 1973, Jeni Southern, a physiotherapist, got together with a riding Instructor, Ann Creek and the owner of a local riding school, Dr. Paddy Heslop, and formed the Bermuda Riding for the Disabled Association. Linda Sousa replaced Ann as the chief instructor the following year – a role she continued to the present day.

The BRD (as it became known) spent the next 25 years working out of various riding schools on the island, using borrowed horses and equipment, until they were offered the opportunity to run a purpose built riding centre being built as part of WindReach Recreational Village in Warwick.

In 2008 the programme gained accreditation from the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA) and on 1st September, 2009 WindReach and Bermuda Riding for the Disabled merged resulting in a greater integration of programmes, and the benefits of shared resources and infrastructure.

WindReach Therapeutic Riding continues to provide physical therapy and rehabilitation through its riding lessons. Horses are used in a variety of ways to develop the cognitive skills and to improve the social, emotional, and physical well-being of persons with special needs.

Our staff, facilities and programmes are certified by CANTRA – the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association. Currently there are some 50 riders weekly. The riders who have shown a real interest and commitment to improve their riding, known as “Future Riders”, train to compete in local dressage events and competitions. They will gain experience to then move forward to international competitions, with the ultimate goal of our riders representing Bermuda.

Therapeutic Riding Programme – Application for 2010-2011

We are now inviting our existing and new riders to complete application forms for the 2010-2011 riding year, which will commence in September 2010. We have grouped the programme into two separate sessions this year in order to accommodate the large number of applicants we receive. Each rider will participate for one session and may re-apply for another session in the following school year. Session One will run from September until February. Session Two will run from February until the end of May so that the riding programme will not conflict with the many end-of-year school activities usually held in June

Applications received after June 8th 2010 but before November 30th 2010 will be considered for Session 2 if vacancies are available. Any application received outside of timelines will be kept on file until an appropriate vacancy is found.

Due to the high demand and popularity of the Riding Programme we reserve the right to postpone to a later session or not accept any application.

Checklist for New Applicants

* Please review the Important Information for Riders

* Application form

* Physician Referral Form


Checklist for existing Applicants

* Re-Application Form

* Physician Form (confirm with WindReach Stable office)