Winston, our much-loved riding simulator, is celebrating an incredible 10 years at InFocus, and what an impact he has made. Since arriving in 2015, Winston has helped hundreds of young people experience the physical and emotional benefits of horse riding in a safe, supportive and accessible way.

Over the past decade, Winston has supported more than 950 hours of fitness and rehabilitation. Those hours are the equivalent of over 3,700 horse riding sessions, all delivered in a way that is engaging, confidence building and, most importantly, fun. For many of the young people we support, this has been their first and sometimes only opportunity to experience horse riding.

Winston is a Racewood Riding Simulator, part of a range of world leading simulators used internationally for performance, fitness and rehabilitation. The very first Racewood racehorse simulator was developed in 1990, following an approach from a leading jockey who wanted to maintain his riding skills and fitness while recovering from injury. Since then, Racewood simulators have been used by racing institutions and large equestrian venues across the world.

At InFocus, Winston plays a particularly special role. He encourages riders to relax the spine and pelvis, promotes good posture, and helps to build core strength. The rhythmic movement of the simulator closely mirrors that of a real horse, offering many of the same physical benefits without the worry of falling off. This makes it an ideal piece of equipment for people with disabilities who may not be able to access traditional horse riding.

Winston is the Riding for the Disabled version of the Racewood simulator and can be easily controlled using buttons on the side. This allows staff to tailor each session to the individual needs of the young person, adjusting speed and movement to support comfort, confidence and therapeutic goals. For some, sessions focus on physical development and rehabilitation. For others, the benefits are just as much about relaxation, enjoyment and a sense of achievement.

Over the years, Winston has enabled dozens of young people to build confidence, develop strength, and experience the joy of riding in a way that feels safe and achievable. He has become a familiar and much-loved part of life at InFocus, bringing smiles, laughter and moments of calm to so many sessions.

Happy 10th birthday, Winston. You are truly valued and very much loved at InFocus, and we cannot wait to see the difference you continue to make in the years ahead.