RACING SO THEY CAN RIDE

Event Overview

Date: September 19, 2026

Location: 1165 Vann Drive, Jackson, TN

Race URL: Click here to register

Purpose of the Event

• Fundraising: Our purpose is to raise funds and awareness for the Rein-bow Riding Academy’s hippotherapy program offered through The Therapy & Learning Center.
• Cost Coverage: Funds that we raise from our race each year go to pay for the cost of hippotherapy so that there is no cost to the families.

What is Hippotherapy?

• Definition: Hippotherapy is a form of therapy in which a therapist uses the characteristic movements of a horse to provide carefully graded motor and sensory input.
• Target Audience: It is licensed therapeutic horseback riding for kids and adults with special needs, medical diagnoses and disabilities.

How Does Hippotherapy Work?

• Movement Benefits: A horse's gait provides sensory stimulation for the patient as they ride.
• Mimicry: The movement the body makes while riding a horse mimics the patterns humans naturally make when they walk.
• Muscle Coordination: Sensory messages are relayed to the rider’s brain to coordinate muscle movement in order to maintain balance.
• Functional Improvement: The end result is improved functionality for the patient.

Who Benefits from Hippotherapy?

• Medical Conditions: Some patients have conditions such as cerebral palsy, abnormal muscle tone, and sensory integration disorders.
• Ages: Hippotherapy benefits patients of all ages, and the ability to walk is not necessary to participate in the program.
• Demand: Each year, the Therapy & Learning Center has a waiting list due to how many children and adults need and desire this type of therapy.