What is PGTRA?
The Prince George Therapeutic Riding Association (PGTRA) was established in 1992 by a passionate group of parents and their children who united to create this organization.
We provide therapeutic and recreational horseback riding experiences for children and adults with disabilities. Our program is designed to highlight the unique abilities of each rider, complementing other forms of treatment for individuals with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities.
Mission
We are on a mission to empower individuals with disabilities, focusing on their abilities, through the experience of recreational riding. We strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment while maintaining the highest standards of safety and instruction.
Vision
Our vision is to cultivate a space where everyone, including our equine partners, thrives in a safe and joyful environment. We envision a future where the power of therapeutic riding brings happiness, fulfillment, and inclusivity to the lives of all participants.
Values
Our core values revolve around inclusivity, positivity, respect, safety, and personal growth. We’re committed to creating a welcoming community where all abilities are embraced. Our dedication ensures that we provide the best possible experience for all who join us.
Our Riders
Our riders discover the joys of horsemanship through our comprehensive therapeutic and recreational programs. Every year, we not only bring radiant smiles to our participants’ faces but we also get to witness those cherished moments as they experience the magic of horseback riding!
Our Programs
Our programs are designed to encourage flexibility, as well as providing physical, mental, and emotional support, ultimately enriching lives. Our sessions are delivered by certified instructors and a team of dedicated volunteers.
THERAPEUTIC RIDING
Therapeutic riding offers a holistic approach to wellness, providing physical, emotional, and cognitive benefits that enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities.
- Increase self-esteem & confidence
- Improve body image & awareness
- Increase muscle strength & flexibility
Dressage
Our independent, dressage riding program promotes strength and balance, while encouraging mental focus, and enhanced emotional well-being – all benefits of horse and human connection.
- Develop a sense of achievement
- Increase attention span & focus
- Heightened bond with the horses
CART DRIVING
Our cart driving program offers a multitude of benefits, including increased physical strength, coordination, and a sense of achievement, all while nurturing a unique bond with an equine partner.
- Increase motor control
- Improve problem-solving skills
- Learn teamwork & make friends
Our Volunteers
We love and cherish our volunteers! They are the backbone of our organization. It takes a very special kind of person to dedicate the time and commitment necessary to make our program a success.
Our Sponsors
Sponsorship contributions help us to continue to provide therapeutic riding lessons, and expand our facilities and programs. There are many ways you can help out: Horse Sponsorship, Rider Sponsorship, or Event Sponsorship.
News & Events
HORSE SHOW – SEPTEMBER 23
Join us for our annual horse show on Saturday, September 23rd from 10am to 1pm, at the Agriplex. BBQ lunch by donation and 50/50 draw. Cover on down and make some noise for the kids!
VOLUNTEERS URGENTLY NEEDED
PGTRA is urgently seeking volunteers for our therapeutic riding and cart programs. Any amount of time you have to give is greatly appreciated. Please get involved! We can’t do it without you.
PGTRA GALA – OCTOBER 14
Join us for dinner and dancing at the 2023 PGTRA Gala Event, featuring Deuces Wild. Doors open at 6pm and dinner at 7pm. Columbus Community Centre. Tickets: $60 per person.
I saw a child who couldn’t walk,
sit on a horse, laugh and talk.
Then ride it through a field of daisies
and yet he could not walk unaided.
I saw a child, no legs below,
sit on a horse and make it go
through woods of green
and places he had never been
to sit and stare
except from a chair….
