GallopNYC Riders Promenade in Style Through Central Park
New York, N.Y. – June 8, 2022 – New York City's Central Park came alive when horses, riders, volunteers, instructors, equine therapists, supporters and sponsors converged for the annual GallopNYC Central Park Promenade on May 22. GallopNYC is New York City's premier therapeutic riding program serving children and adults with disabilities and a community of veterans at four locations. GallopNYC serves hundreds of New Yorkers each week with life-enhancing equine-assisted therapy.
Riders arrived dressed to the nines in fashions by a group of diverse designers, styled by creative director, wardrobe stylist and costume designer Nyeelah Lewis.
"Mandie Ericson from Showroom Seven asked me if I wanted to get involved and I said, 'Yes!'" Lewis said. "Fashion is inclusive, and everybody should look fabulous. I'm honored that they wanted to involve me."
Stylist Nyeelah Lewis helped the riders look their best for the GallopNYC Central Park Promenade. Photo by EQ Media
Sunday morning Central Park was abuzz with runners, cyclists and walkers. The GallopNYC horses unloaded without fanfare and quietly took in the activity and the crowd of Promenade participants and onlookers. When everyone assembled, the first group mounted up and went for their ride down the historic bridle path. Groups of riders included GallopNYC youth, adults and veterans, led by a supporter, Sa'eed Mustafa, CSM, U.S. Army (Ret.).
Central Park was created to be enjoyed from the back of a horse. GallopNYC riders not only felt the magic of the experience but promoted and fundraised for the worthy cause. Fans and New Yorkers cheered them along their way.
Riders from GallopNYC on the Central Park Promenade. Photo by Diana De Rosa
George Bergamo, a Commercial Finance Group director with event sponsor Centennial Bank, joined the ride aboard Eli. "It was my first time ever on a horse," Bergamo said. "It was a magical experience. Thank you to GallopNYC. I can see why the program is so effective. It was indescribable."
George Bergamo of GallopNYC sponsor Centennial Bank. Photo by EQ Media
After the ride, a champagne reception, sponsored by Dunoyer de Segonzac, was held at The Museum of the City of New York. GallopNYC's miniature horse ambassadors Priscilla and Joy greeted guests and they toasted to the event's success.
A short program kicked off with GallopNYC Executive Director James Wilson. "Your support allows us to offer lessons to those who may not have the opportunity," he said. "Thank you for your generosity."
Sarah Maslin Nir enjoys her ride through Central Park. Photo by Diana DeRosa
Wilson introduced supporter Sarah Maslin Nir, New York Times writer and author of "Horse Crazy." She talked about how supporting GallopNYC and the Central Park Promenade helps children and adults take what they learn at the barn with the horses to enrich and improve their lives.
Christina, a U.S. Air Force veteran, had a car accident that left her with traumatic brain injury. She found a community of veterans among the greater community of young people and adults at GallopNYC. She described the GallopNYC community's answer to veterans' specific needs for friendship, recognition and understanding. Christina is also the parent of Ethan, a GallopNYC rider.
GallopNYC Executive Director James Wilson. Priscilla and Joy greeted guests. Photos by Diana De Rosa
Last to speak was Kerri Neifeld, the Commissioner of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. She noted the uniqueness of the event and what a great reason it was to bring the attendees together.
"On behalf of Governor Hochul and the agency that I represent, I thank you for the opportunity to take part today," Commissioner Neifield said. "This event combines two things that I feel very passionately about – horses and the incredible relationship that can develop between a person and a horse and helping people with developmental disabilities live their best lives."
She continued, "What GallopNYC has been able to do with the therapeutic riding program – it's about the positivity it brings to life. We've seen people become more patient, more resilient, improve their fine motor skills and a whole host of other positive impacts because of programs like these. Most of all, it just improves quality of life."
Commissioner Kerri Neifeld. Photo by Diana De Rosa
Thank you to all the sponsors, supporters, volunteers, instructors and riders that made the GallopNYC Central Park Promenade a success. For those who have not had the opportunity to donate or would like contribute again or purchase merchandise, find the links below.
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