Photos: WalkSublime
In time for this year’s Melbourne Cup, a program has given retired racehorses a second chance at a better life. WalkSublime aims to create an Australian-first initiative to connect us with our furry counterparts and find our true selves.
Walking with Horses in Nature™️ is a unique experience for people who appreciate quality time with animals. The rehomed horses are the perfect walking partners, endorsing self-growth through guided tours in nature.
Founded by Mel McLaren, the program is bringing fulfilment and purpose to retired and rehomed horses.
The idea for the project stemmed from Mel’s own walks with the young horses to “preserve her sanity” and train them for riding. It provided her healing during personal tribulations during that period of time.
“They chose to be there with me, one-on-one, and that showed me that I was a worthy person,” Mel said.
The wellness program gives an opportunity to seek out a peaceful activity away from societal pressures. Something as simple as walking with a horse can be beneficial for both mental and physical health.
Mel brings you along on a personal adventure, taking her peaceful horses with you. The tours are led through some of South Australia’s most stunning landscapes, including Kuitpo Forest, Normanville and Silver Sands Beach.
You can choose between the three different experiences, so it’s up to your specific tastes for the tour. Whether you enjoy the soothing sounds of trees swaying, peaceful silence or waves crashing, there are plenty of options.
There are currently six companions, two of which are ex-racehorses. A stern and gorgeous gelding named ‘He Is Golden’ and a mare ‘Babe In Boots,’ with both racing for eight years.
“As I’m out there with my guests, watching them form connections with the horse that I’ve chosen for them, I get to see the very best of people, because the horses bring that out of them,” Mel said.
Mel said Walking with Horses in Nature™️ is a “proof of concept” for her future not-for-profit program, “Sublime Intervention,” which will branch out nation-wide.
“I intend to approach the horse racing industry and pitch it to them for their voluntary contributions, funding contributions and to give them an option for retiring the horses.”
This November, the program celebrates two years of operation, getting closer and closer to their Sublime Intervention goal. Rather than a protest, Walking with Horses in Nature™️ is a solution.
WHO: Founder – Mel McLaren
WHAT: Walking with Horses in Nature™️ Experience
WHEN: Open for bookings on select days
WHERE: Kuitpo Forest, Kuitpo, Adelaide Hill 5201 – Normanville, Fleurieu Peninsula 5204 – Meadows, Adelaide Hills 5201.
For more information, click here.
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