Riding experience means much to many

To the editor:

Re: Shelby Gatti, owner of Forever Memories Equestrian Centre

Shame on the Province, Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and the Truro Raceway for forcing a young female entrepreneur, whose business is providing the opportunity and enjoyment of riding horses and being around these beautiful animals, while providing a handicapped riding program.

Studies have proven that with riding a horse, handicapped children and adults greatly benefit.

Years ago, the Agricultural College in Truro had horses which they used in the handicapped program. Not everyone is into hockey and they are being left out of this wonderful experience of riding a horse.

Ms. Gatti is providing this sport and experience for the people of Truro. I am glad to have read in the paper that Mayor Bill Mills is hoping that things can be worked out. Please help, so horse riders can have the opportunity to ride.

For the province to have sent a letter stating that Shelby had a week to find accommodation for 20-plus horses, equipment, feed, etc., plus the bookings she already had in, is beyond mean and nasty.

A horse is a wonderful and large animal; her business provided a chance for children and adults to be around horses for riding, to take care of the horse you rode, and upon returning it to the barn, removing the saddle, bridge blanket and, of course, providing your horse with cut-up apple and carrot.

I grew up in the Ottawa Valley where there are many riding stables. I spent my teen years learning to ride and I did not always have the money for the ride.

I learned to take care of the horses, clean the stalls, saddle horses for incoming riders, remove riding gear and brush the horses, when riders returned to the barn and this paid for my rides.

When my children were old enough, on the weekends, I often would book a time for the four of us to ride for an hour; it was a treat they looked forward to once a month.

Please horse riders, provide Shelby with your support so she can win her fight and continue to provide the enjoyment of riding a horse for those who wish to try the experience.

I will be 80 years old this summer and am looking forward to one last ride with my family; I was unable to do so last year but it is on my bucket list.

Micheline Gibson,

Truro