JOHN Lawlor of the Clane Riding for the Disabled Association has been named the RDAI Rider of the Year at the organisation’s annual general meeting and national conference.

Lawlor, who was born with cerebral palsy and epilepsy, has never allowed his health issues to stop him enjoying life, as the judges found out when reading his entry.

Speaking at the presentation of the Wexford Insurances-sponsored award, Dilys Lindsay, RDAI field officer said the judges had been struck by his positive attitude.

“John has been involved with the Clane RDAI Group since 2012 when it was found that he showed a real interest in horses through his participation with the Kare Centre in Kilcullen,” she said. “Initially John went along to watch and as his confidence grew, he got closer to the horses, patting them and with help feeding them carrots. As time progressed, a suitable horse, Bono was available and over a period John began to ride.”

She continued: “He has made huge progress in terms of balance and sitting up straight. He now holds the reins quite well and makes an effort to steer. Games are his real excitement and when he wins his helpers are struck by his smile, which is such a joy to see.”

The presentation of the award, presented to highlight the progress, increased ability and confidence that members gain through the therapeutic benefits of horse riding, was made at Hotel Minella in Clonmel, Co Tipperary.

The runner-up award recipients included 15-year-old Glenn Kenny from Delgany in Co Wicklow, who attends St Catherine’s Special National School in Newcastle, Co Wicklow and lives at home with his parents, Anne-Marie and Glenn, his four brothers and sisters.

He was joined in receiving an award by 12-year-old Stephanie Dodrill, a member of the RDAI Broadmeadows Group in Malahide for the past five years. She attends the Central Remedial Clinic for school and therapy services and is currently working towards her Grade III.

Liam McSweeney received his runner-up award as a member of the Rathdown Disabled Carriage Driving Group and was one of the group’s first drivers. McSweeney is always ready for a new challenge, has huge determination and loves competing.

Twenty-two volunteers and 13 ponies were also honoured with RDAI Long Service Awards.

“The Long Service Award is presented to those volunteers who have been with us for at least 10 years. Indeed some of our volunteers being presented with their award today have been with RDAI for up to 30 years,” said the RDAI officer.

Mrs Lindsay said that the attendance of nearly 200 RDAI volunteers at the AGM and national conference was proof that the association was continuing to thrive through the hard work and dedication of its members and supporters.

She thanked RDAI sponsors including Wexford Insurances, Connolly’s Red Mills, Dubarry and Enniscorthy Electrical Wholesalers.

She concluded by saying that anyone interested in volunteering or seeking further information on the RDAI could do so by contacting national secretary Niamh Kingston on 01 2876503 or by emailing rdaisecretary@eircom.net.

Speakers at the conference included Irish Paralympian rider, Eilish Byrne from Dundalk and based in Armagh city and Aoife Quinn, a physiotherapist from the Central Remedial Clinic.