“An incredibly meaningful experience”
GAIN Equine Nutrition continues its support for RDA Ireland
Pictured (l-r) were Joanne Hurley, Head of Equine at GAIN Equine Nutrition; Bill Carroll, Tirlán Board Member; Seán Molloy, Tirlán CEO and Mary Walsh, RDA Ireland Chairperson
GAIN Equine Nutrition has announced the continuation of its support for Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Ireland, reaffirming a partnership that is delivering meaningful impact for children and adults with disabilities across the country.
The announcement was made at RDA Ireland’s Member Event and Fun Day at Stradbally Hall, Co. Laois, which brought together service users, families, volunteers and supporters from across Ireland for a day of celebration and connection.
This ongoing support reflects Tirlán’s Living Proof sustainability strategy and its strong commitment to supporting farm families, volunteers and rural communities. It also underlines a shared focus on inclusive wellbeing initiatives that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Supporting Confidence, Skills and Independence
Established over 50 years ago, RDA Ireland now operates through more than 32 local groups nationwide. Supported by over 400 volunteers, the organisation delivers weekly therapeutic horse riding and carriage driving sessions to more than 400 children and adults with disabilities.
These sessions help participants to:
- Build confidence
- Develop physical and social skills
- Foster independence through interaction with horses
The partnership with GAIN Equine Nutrition supports volunteer training and development, organisational costs, and the delivery of sessions nationwide. It also helps to promote volunteering within rural and equestrian communities, expanding RDA Ireland’s reach and impact.
A Shared Commitment
The Board of RDA Ireland highlighted the importance of this continued backing: “The ongoing support of sponsors like Tirlán allows the organisation to continue delivering safe, inclusive and life-enhancing equine activities, with clear benefits for participants, their families and the volunteers involved.”
Joanne Hurley, Head of Equine at GAIN Equine Nutrition, added: “The partnership reflects Tirlán’s long-standing connection to the equine sector and its belief in the positive role horses play in wellbeing, confidence and independence.”
Pictured (l-r) were Mary Walsh, RDA Ireland Chairperson; Emily Logan (RDA Ireland Rider Ambassador and Seán Molloy, Tirlán CEO
Making a Difference
For volunteers, the experience is both rewarding and impactful. Maureen Ní Chonchobhair, who volunteers with a group in Carlow, described it as: “An incredibly meaningful experience – reconnecting with horses while working alongside a wonderful team, amazing ponies and inspiring children.”
The benefits are equally powerful for families. April, whose daughter Anna attends RDA Ireland sessions, shared: “Since my daughter started riding with RDA Ireland, we’ve seen changes that have touched our whole family. She’s happier, more settled and has found ways to communicate that we never thought possible. Horse riding is the highlight of her week.”
Get Involved
RDA Ireland warmly welcomes new volunteers. If you’re comfortable around horses and interested in becoming part of a supportive and inclusive team, find your nearest group here:
This partnership continues to demonstrate how collaboration across the co-op and wider equine community can deliver lasting, positive impact for individuals, families and communities nationwide.
