A cancer–survivor, who attends the Keysoe International Riding Centre in Bedford has qualified for the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships.
At only 8 years old, Dylan Flack has undertaken nearly a year of chemotherapy treatments since his diagnosis of bone cancer last year.
However, Dylan had always had a special place in his heart reserved for horses, and he did not let treatment affect his achievements.
Last September, Dylan attended a Keysoe Cuddle Therapy Centre and became firm friends with the staff and ponies at Keysoe.
Once he was able to ride his pony Inki, his love for horses and sheer determination led to him qualifying for the RDA Regional qualifiers.
Keysoe and Peak Performance Horses set up private sessions for Dylan to develop his technique, which would help him compete for the qualifiers.
Before his last round, Keysoe had set up a surprise for Dylan – a meet-up with the 14-time Paralympic medal winner Sir Lee Pearson.
Jessica, Dylan’s mother, shared her excitement, “It was just so beautiful. When we arrived, Dylan got to meet Sir Lee Pearson and even got to wear one of his Tokyo gold medals.
“I can’t thank everyone involved for making it so, so special for Dylan [it was] absolutely amazing.”
Sir Lee Pearson was also heart warmed by the interaction and explained how moving Dylan’s story has been for him, “Dylan’s bravery and commitment inspires me to try harder and enjoy every day.”
In the Regional Qualifiers, Dylan won his class with 77.05%.
He is now going on to compete in the RDA National Championships at Grade 6 Canter, taking place this weekend at Hartpury Equine Events Centre.
Sarah Stoute, the CEO of Keysoe International added, “Due to how impressed we were with Dylan’s determination and his obvious love and care for his pony Inki we were more than happy to invest in Dylan, to make sure he is as prepared as he could be for the RDA National Championships.
“Good luck Dylan.”
