Another string to the bow

by Hayley

Uncle Charlie seemed to put a sub-par performance behind him this afternoon when running a good race at his beloved Carlisle. Up in class and back on Soft ground, he was only beaten 3 lengths. He's a had a good season so far, with two wins and a third place from only six starts. Charlie broke his pelvis during his racecourse debut as a two-year-old, and since then he has gone on to win four times, so far. Having sustained such a severe injury, he went through a period of rehabilitation using our water treadmill and was back on the track - and in the winner’s enclosure - within four months. Charlie's story was one of the key influences behind Sun Hill’s latest venture - Sports Horse Fitness and Rehabilitation Centre. In the last few months we have welcomed horses of all shapes and sizes; ponies, eventers, dressage stars and even enjoyed visits from other racing yards. Endorsed by one of the country’s top event riders, Nicola Wilson, you can read more about it in the Northern Echo here.

Not only has the water treadmill been fantastic for horses returning from a myriad of injuries, but also for helping to prevent injury and reduce recovery time. Fit horses don't miss out either, as everything from cardiovascular fitness to stride length (and everything in between) can be improved upon. There really isn't a horse or pony, of any age, ability or discipline that can't benefit. The break from the norm is also great for horses, changing up the monotony of every day training, giving them something different to think about and enjoy.