When Harelaw Equestrian Centre in Longniddry lost seven of their beloved ponies in 2014, the young riders were heartbroken. From that moment onwards, Carrie Bain, and her parents Murray and Brenda who run the stables, vowed that every single rider who came to the stables would have the opportunity to learn about the disease and raise funds for research, to help prevent future horses and ponies from suffering.

And so the Onesie Rides began! Each May the young riders put on their onesies and go for a fundraising rideout, sending the proceeds to The Equine Grass Sickness Fund to help with their research. Over the years the Onesie Ride has snowballed, and now the Harelaw calendar also has an Easter ride, Disney Treasure Hunt, Halloween Ride and Christmas Ride. So far this year Carrie’s young riders, or Team Chiblet as they are known, have raised a quite incredible £7775. When added together over the years, thanks to these enterprising youngsters, with the support of their friends and families, the total now stands just shy of £35,500! Many congratulations are due for their efforts, and heartfelt thanks for their support for our worthy cause.

A footnote

Just one of the affected ponies survived grass sickness, and to this day is still one of the favourites at the stables, known for her patience and affectionate nature. Nugget, an 11 year old connemara/ID cross, was one of the participants at a special parade of grass sickness survivors, held at the Royal Highland Show this year, as part of their 200th Anniversary celebrations. More or less the entire yard closed, and everyone made their way to the show to watch Nugget and Carrie in the main arena.

To support the Harelaw fundraising efforts please donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/NationalOnesieRide