Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding (SDTR) knows the best stories come from the source, of course, and that’s always a faithful, hard-working Horse. And a dedicated Rider. And a nurturing Instructor. So, we headed to the stable! 

We asked SDTR Riders, Horses and Instructors to share their stories to show how your support can empower a difference in the lives of Riders like Rhianna, her favorite horse Lydia and their Instructor Lauren.

thumbnail 14Rider: Rhianna Powell

Q. Who is your favorite Horse and why?

It’s hard to choose just one, because I love them all…but I really do like Lydia.

Q. What do you like best about being with Lydia?

There are so many things about Lydia that I love!  Mostly because she is cute, she goes fast and she likes it when I give her carrots.

Q. How does Lydia make you feel?    

Lydia makes me feel happy because when I ride her, I feel like I am flying!

Horse: Lydia

Q. What do you like best about being with Rhianna?

Rhianna is just so sweet to me! She is very thoughtful to be gentle with the reins and her leg aid. And I love when she brings me a carrot!

Q. How does Rhianna make you feel?

She makes me feel very beautiful and proud because she always compliments me!

Instructor: Lauren Alegret

Q. What have you learned working with Rhianna and Lydia? 

I am always so impressed when these two lovely girls pair together. When Rhianna works very hard to stay focused, that helps Lydia trust that she is in charge and knows where she’s going. Lydia’s patient, gentle demeanor helps give Rhianna the confidence to be bold and ride obstacle courses off-lead.

Want to empower more Tails of Greatness and SDTR service to Southern Delaware? Join us in Do More 24 Delaware, a 24-hour statewide online fundraiser in partnership with United Way of Delaware from 6PM, March 3 through 6PM, March 4.


Visit SDTR's DM24DEto be part of this year’s critical post-pandemic funding to improve our facility’s ventilation and equine care for health and environmental benefits to riders, horses, families, and volunteers.

Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding (SDTR)is a 501(c)(3) non-profit affiliated with the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) in service to children and adults with disabilities since 1988. Our Mission: To improve the physical and emotional wellbeing of children and adults living with disabilities through equine assisted services in a supportive environment for riders and families. Learn more about us at our www.sdtrhr.com Facebookand Instagram profiles.