“This constitutes horses who help people with all of their various diagnosis, mental or physical health problems,” said Executive Director Paul Bennett.

In a normal year, up to 110 riders visit the ranch every week, each with an individualized program to suit their needs. Bennett believes there are three commonly seen benefits from therapeutic riding: strength, freedom and connection.

Running such an operation — at no expense to those participating — is costly, however.

“We have an enormous amount of infrastructure,” Bennett said. “The property takes about a million dollars to run.”

Their Swiftsure Derby fundraiser — a play on the Kentucky Derby featuring the farm’s horses — aims to lighten the financial load.

One girl participating in a program is Bella. Her horse in the Swiftsure Derby is #4 Kate. The key to her horse’s Swiftsure Derby training regimen is twofold.

“Trotting and walking,” said Bella.

More information on Swiftsure Ranch’s 2021 Swiftsure Derby can be found here

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