GallopNYC Community Enjoys the Central Park Promenade
GallopNYC program riders and supporters enjoyed a beautiful morning in Central Park. Photo by Snap Photography and Cinema
New York - May 29, 2024 - The bridle path winding through New York City's Central Park was originally designed for horseback riding, and on Sunday, May 19, riders from GallopNYC embraced this New York tradition. Today, horses and riders are a less common sight in the park, making the promenade an excellent way to highlight GallopNYC's work serving New Yorkers with disabilities, older adults, veterans and first responders.
The Central Park Mounted Patrol led the promenade, with riders enjoying the bridle path surrounded by volunteers, GallopNYC riding instructors and supporters. In the park, GallopNYC staff and volunteers set up a family-friendly zone, offering New Yorkers a chance to learn more about the benefits of therapeutic riding and equine-assisted programming. The zone featured a "sensory buffet" that allowed visitors to see, touch and smell objects found in the barn, providing a unique and immersive experience.
GallopNYC's Director of External Affairs, Phoenix Trent, thanked the many people who helped organize the Central Park Promenade and cheered on the horses and riders to kick off the event.
"We are working to ensure that every New Yorker with a disability has the opportunity to benefit from our therapeutic riding programs," Trent said. "We rely on the support of our donors and our community to thrive and ensure that we can continue to offer services. Our riders pay a price below our costs, and sixty percent enjoy discounted rates, as accessibility is our priority. Financial support also ensures that our herd of horses receives top-quality care."
On Thursday, May 16, preceding the promenade, a cocktail reception was held at Manhattan Saddlery. Trent, GallopNYC Founder and Executive Director Alicia Kershaw and Board Chair Constance Hunter thanked supporters and introduced attendees to GallopNYC's life-improving programs. A young participant, Chase, shared his love for his favorite horse horse. Jose, a former sailor who participates in the Veterans Riding Program, spoke of how GallopNYC's horses help him manage his anxiety. Then, Elisa, a member of GallopNYC's senior and volunteer community, shared how much she enjoys riding and the community of older adults she has met at GallopNYC. The reception served as a kick-off to the event and was an opportunity for donors and sponsors to meet riders and hear their stories of personal development.
Upcoming GallopNYC events include the Ride with Pride Horse Show at Sunrise Stables on June 8 and the GallopNYC Barn Dance at Current at Chelsea Piers on Oct. 16.
