Indian Horse Riding Challenge

Brooke Indian Horse Riding Challenge: review

This February, 29 intrepid Brooke supporters set off to Rajasthan in India, for the riding experience of a lifetime. The riders had travelled from as far as Australia, New Zealand, Jordan and France to join the trip, which was not to disappoint.

Over six days the group of determined riders covered almost 130km on their spirited and beautiful Marwari horses. The sights, sounds and smells of India were a whirlwind on the senses and more than made up for the dust which found its way into every nook and cranny, and the inevitable achy muscles that resulted from 5 hours in the saddle every day.

Smiles and enthusiastic greetings awaited riders at every stop as we passed through small villages. We experienced the delights of local Indian dishes, saw historic monuments and immersed ourselves in the culture of India as we enjoyed evenings round the campfire listening to tales from our local guides, before an exhausted night’s sleep under canvas.

The experience came to an end with a visit to a brick kiln and a women’s equine welfare group in Noida, to hear firsthand how the Brooke’s work is making a difference, and how the money raised will help communities and their working horses in the future.

Women are often the main carers for their horses, so the Brooke plays an important role in training them in animal husbandry and basic first aid to equip them with the skills, confidence and knowledge to better care for their working animals.

Have a look at our Flickr album for more photos from the trip

Read about the experiences of ride participant Ruby Grimshaw, who took part in a previous Brooke riding challenge in India

A huge thank you to all of the participants who made this challenge the unique and wonderful experience it was, and for all of your hard work fundraising for the Brooke. Together participants have raised over £100,000.

Find out about our next challenge

To be among the first to hear the details of our next horse riding challenge, taking place in Spring 2013, call 020 7653 5812 or email community@thebrooke.org