“Ride for SPIRIT,” Held Saturday, Nov. 9, At Frying Pan Farm Park Equestrian Center In Herndon

SPIRIT Open Equestrian Program, Inc. arranged the organization's public presentation, "Ride for SPIRIT," on Saturday, Nov. 9 at Frying Pan Farm Park Equestrian Center in Herndon and celebrated the achievements of its students. The event demonstrated how horseback riding provided a fun experience that improved their balance, muscle tone, motor skills, self-confidence and more.
Rider Aaron Ho, 5, of Fairfax, Naomi Jacobs, 11, of Fairfax, Elena Brunori of Vienna, and Sagarika Kagicha, 13, of Fairfax at "Ride4SPIRIT," held Sat., Nov., 9, Frying Pan Farm Park Equestrian Center, Herndon
According to McLean Connection, "While riders and their families remain the primary beneficiaries of SPIRIT's program, one that promoted inclusion and urban horsemanship for the healing and improvement of life skills, SPIRIT’s program also touched volunteers, staff and board members. It also gave one U.S. Army veteran "purpose."

Rider Nicole Springer, 19, of Sterling participated in the SPIRIT Therapeutic Riding Program since she was nine years old. According to her mother, Laura-Jeanne, Nicole was born with a Low Muscle Tone. When they first enrolled Nicole in the program, SPIRIT staff and volunteers engaged her daughter in playful exercises while 'in-saddle' on the horse to help further develop the child's core strength and balance. Springer recalled how Nicole stretched, reaching to touch the horse's ears and hindquarters and balanced, turning 360 degrees in the saddle thinking it all fun and games. "She went from needing two side walkers (volunteers who spotted her while she rode) and a special type of saddle for support, to be an independent rider. “Nicole’s confidence spills over," said Springer."

As per McLean Connection, "SPIRIT is a registered 501(c) (3) organization, EIN #20-849-2941. According to SPIRIT, if interested in Therapeutic Riding or Equine Assisted Learning/Beginner Classes, register with Fairfax County Park Authority; contact Frying Pan Farm Park at 703-437-9101. If a youth in the FCPS system would benefit from the SPIRIT program, contact the case manager; for all other programs or information visit [email protected]."

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Maryam

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Maryam N. is a Senior Writer at Nesbitt Realty. She is an expert on Fairfax County. Maryam has also worked previously as a geologist. She is a foodie and enjoys cooking and exploring new restaurants.