Enjoyable equestrian retreat for both youth and seniors at Pensin's riding camp
In the picturesque town of Penzin near Demmin, Germany, nine girls aged five to 16 recently spent a week immersed in all things equine at Elke Vahl's annual horse riding camp. The camp, now in its 20th year, offers a unique opportunity for children to connect with their beloved horses and improve their riding skills.
Throughout the week, the young riders participated in various activities, including vaulting, pasture riding, and nature rides. Vaulting, a gymnastic sport performed on the back of a moving horse, provided an exciting challenge for the participants, who showcased their acrobatic skills during the closing event, earning applause from the audience.
Three-year-old Ole Dahlke, who participated in the pony riding event, had previously ridden ponies twice and enjoyed the experience. For older riders like Sabine and Harry Naehring's granddaughter, Evje, the camp was a cherished experience that she thoroughly enjoyed.
The daily routine at the camp included taking care of the pasture, table, and yard duties in groups. The children were also responsible for feeding and caring for the horses, which helped them develop a strong bond with their equine companions. By the evening campfire, horse knowledge was exchanged among the participants, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
The weather during the camp was not always perfect, but that didn't dampen the spirits of the young riders. In fact, it provided an opportunity for them to learn about horse care in various weather conditions.
The camp ended with an impressive closing event on Friday. The children performed a delightful adaptation of the fairy tale "Snow White and Rose Red" on horseback, while a cowboy dance got the audience going. Robin, Ole Dahlke's father, praised the organisers for the challenging vaulting event and overall great event.
Elke Vahl, the camp organiser, invites children to her riding camp on her farm each year, offering a memorable and educational experience for young horse enthusiasts. For those interested in attending future camps, we recommend checking with local riding schools or equestrian clubs in the Penzin area for more information.
The camp's educational experience extended beyond horse riding lessons, incorporating home-and-garden duties such as taking care of the pasture, table, and yard, fostering a sense of responsibility in the young riders. Pets often become an integral part of a person's lifestyle, and the strong bonds formed between the children and their horses served as a testament to this, with many young riders looking forward to bringing the equine lifestyle into their homes in the future.
