PRESS RELEASE - issued 6 July 2023
NIKITA’S EPIC CLIMB
CLIMBING local landmark Roseberry Topping near Great Ayton is a bit of a stroll for most people but for 9 year old Nikita from Middlesbrough it’s a big deal.
She’s a regular horse rider at the Riding for the Disabled Association’s Unicorn Centre in Hemlington and loves her weekly lessons on pony Biker. And her love of riding has spurred her on to fundraise for the charity.
Nikita lives with the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Sensory Processing Disorder as well as suspected ADHD. Each diagnosis comes with its unique challenges and needs but Nikita describes herself as superability not disability, saying her brain just does things differently.
She said, “I want to buy new bridles for Biker and some of the other ponies, and Mum suggested I did a sponsored event to raise the money. I’ve always wanted to climb Roseberry Topping, so I’m going to have a try, but it’ll be quite hard for me to do.
“I haven’t really been practicing for the climb but am really active. As well as horse riding, I also go dancing and join in with Mum’s fitness classes. I’ve also been doing lots of different jumps to help strengthen my legs. “
Nikita’s Mum Letty added, “Nikita is quite a determined young lady, and when she sets her mind to do something, then she’ll work really hard to achieve it, despite the challenges she faces. I was so proud when she decided to fundraise for the Centre. Horse riding is really important to her, and it really improves her confidence and co-ordination.
“We’ve been doing lots of walking and fun exercises in the park as well as skipping which is sometimes tricky for Nikita’s co-ordination. So Nikita hasn’t viewed this as training, just lots of fun”.
Nikita’s Roseberry Topping Challenge will be on Saturday 19 August, and family and friends will be there to cheer her on. And she’s taking a flag with her to wave when she gets to the top. Sadly pony Biker will be busy giving lessons to other riders that day so won’t be able watch!
If you would like to sponsor Nikita, visiting her Just Giving page Letty Mather is fundraising for RDA Unicorn Centre (justgiving.com)
Photo: Letty and Biker at the Unicorn Centre. Nikita practising her skipping skills.
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