Taiwan’s Equestrian Therapy Center has improved the physical and mental well-being of many people with disabilities through therapeutic horseback riding, helping them unlock their potential and self-worth. To help a cerebral palsy rider achieve his dream, the center is actively raising funds to find his benefactor, aiming to make him the first Taiwanese rider to compete in the “FEI World Equestrian Games (World Cup Equestrian Championships).”
Sun Yuren said, “Thank you to the horse for lending me its legs, allowing me to break free from limitations and regain my confidence.” He pointed out that the horse brought many changes and miracles into his life. During equestrian therapy, the rhythmic movement transmitted through the horse’s back helped him relax his muscles and improve his balance. Once he began participating in equestrian sports, the horse gave him many firsts in life—his first first-place award, his first time flying abroad. Riding also helped him win the Presidential Education Award. This time, with the help of the horse, he aims to challenge himself to become the first Taiwanese dressage rider to represent Taiwan in the “FEI World Equestrian Games (World Cup Equestrian Championships).”
Coaches at the Taiwan Equestrian Therapy Center stated that to qualify Yuren for the “FEI World Equestrian Games (World Cup Equestrian Championships),” he must participate in two international competitions before August this year and score at least 60% to advance. The training team estimates they will need NT$2.6 million to cover training, horse purchase, boarding and transportation, airfare, competition registration, and other expenses.
A representative from the private training center noted that the required funds are substantial and expressed hope that the public will lend a hand to help this determined disabled rider achieve his dream, enabling him to step into the highest realm of the equestrian world.