For centuries horses have been recognized for their therapeutic value. In addition to being a pleasurable form of physical therapy, special horses seem to have an affinity for special people. Their gentle demeanor encourages people to develop a mutual trusting bond that promotes self confidence and social skills.

Liz Hartel of Denmark was the first to start organized therapeutic horseback riding in the 1950's. Ms. Hartel had polio, and her riding therapy enabled her to progress from a wheelchair to a silver medal in the 1952 Grand Pris Dressage division at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics.

Equine professionals worked with the medical community to help equine assisted programs grow. In 1969 the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association was established to train and guide therapeutic facilites. Today, there are 734 NARHA centers serving over 30,000 people.

STAR is proud to be a member of NARHA, and able to offer the Aiken community the many benefits of our program.