On Tuesday, January 21, 2025, Her Royal Highness, Princess Anne, paid a visit to SARDA, delighting all Special Needs Schools and their learners who ride at the facility, along with the dedicated volunteers.
Upon her arrival, she was welcomed by the Premier of the Western Cape, Alan Winde, who introduced her to Steven Lukey, SARDA’s Brand Ambassador. Steven guided Princess Anne to the Welcoming Committee, which included Belinda Sampson (co-founder of SARDA), Hillary Lane (Chairperson), Dawn Goodley (former Chairperson and School Liaison), Mandy van Dugteren (Honorary Life Member and active SARDA volunteer), and Bee Lukey, the Administrator.
As part of her tour, the Princess visited the stables, where she met Teri Smith (Senior Instructor and Stable Manager), along with members of the Management Committee and learners from various special needs schools caring for the horses. Her journey through the facility continued past invited school therapists, staff members, and learners into the indoor arena, where a class was actively taking place, instructed by Margaret Morgan with the support of SARDA volunteers.
During her visit, the Princess awarded the riders with rosettes and received a beautiful posy of indigenous flowers from two young riders from ASTRA school.
Princess Anne’s visit served as a significant endorsement and recognition of the exceptional work being carried out by the association.
