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A Dream Come True: Awashima Riding Camp

We are pleased to share a participant’s experience from the recently held Awashima Riding Camp. Discover more about FRC's activities!

Awashima Riding Camp August 18–20, 2023

Kozue Yada — Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture


When I first saw the photo of horses gazing out over the sea, my heart was instantly captured. "I want to meet these horses! I want to immerse myself in that scenery!" With that one thought, I decided to join FRC’s camp held on the remote Awashima Island in Niigata.

It was my first time participating in an FRC event, and I had about four years of riding experience. I hadn’t even earned any official riding qualifications at my club. Yet, fueled by reckless dreams, I envisioned myself like a samurai general galloping gracefully along the beach. In reality, I wasn’t a-dream-come-true-awashima-riding-campexactly "graceful," but with the help of the horse, I managed a lively, rhythmic pace — and at that moment, my dream came true.

Even more than that, what made me truly happy was meeting wonderful new friends! At my home club, lessons are mostly one-on-one, so I never really had opportunities to share conversations with other horse lovers. While that solitary environment had its comforts, there were times when I felt a touch of loneliness.

But thanks to joining this camp, I made five irreplaceable friends!

Meeting horses has truly changed my life. In the past, the only places I could go alone were McDonald's, Mister Donut, and Starbucks. I would only travel with family or friends, completely lacking independence. But driven by the desire to ride horses and see a world I had never experienced before, I found the courage to step out on my own. That drive opened new doors, and now I feel full of excitement and anticipation for the colorful riding life that lies ahead.

Thank you so much for everything!


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