Teen Dressage Rider Achieves Independence and Paralympic Aspirations

Govind, a 16-year-old dressage participant from south-east London, has discovered a sense of independence through horse riding. “I have to rely on a lot of people in my day-to-day life, but in horse riding I don’t have to depend on anyone,” he stated. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy, he commenced riding following his doctor’s recommendation, aiming to build muscle strength. His current aspiration is to compete globally as a Paralympian. Recently, Govind achieved the distinction of being the youngest competitor in the current year’s Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) national championships. He is presently enrolled in the British Equestrian Federation Paralympic entry programme for dressage. He attends weekly riding sessions at the Arrow Riding Centre, a charitable organization located in Dartford that operates primarily through volunteer efforts and depends on financial contributions. Govind remarked, “It’s quite special because I feel like this place is a safe haven for a lot of people with disabilities like me.” The facility presently serves approximately 150 riders with disabilities, with 70% of them being under the age of 21. Beyond its therapeutic benefits, the centre endeavors to enhance self-esteem and provides avenues for progression to advanced dressage riding, a path Govind has successfully pursued. He commented, “I decided to do a few competitions and from there my career has kind of gone to newer heights.” He added, “It would be a dream for me to get into the Paralympics. “I think it’s that sense that you’ve achieved what you want to achieve.”” Govind received a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, a movement disorder impacting all four of his limbs, at 18 months of age. Subsequently, he has undergone numerous orthopaedic procedures at Evelina Children’s Hospital. These included operations to lengthen his lower limb muscles and, more recently, surgery on his shinbone to rectify alignment and assist with long-term riding and walking. Due to intensive rehabilitation, he was able to participate in the RDAs merely six months after his surgery. Valerie Blake, the director of Arrow Riding Centre, characterized observing riders’ progress as “magic,” but expressed apprehension regarding the centre’s requirement for additional financial support. She stated, “It provides a future for our riders. But we have to find the money to keep running which is a lot of money.” She further elaborated, “Although we receive referrals from physiotherapists and hospitals, consultants and stroke units – we are self-funded with expenses currently running at £165,000 a year. It isn’t easy.”” Kavitha, Govind’s mother, conveyed her “thankful” sentiments towards the riding centre. She commented: “This is a place where they express themselves and this is one thing they can do without having to depend on anyone.” And Govind remarked: “You’re just on top of the world.” For more content, listeners can access BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London across Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Further information regarding its approach to external linking is available.