Changing of the (horse) guards

As one veteran equestrian rides off into the sunset, another is saddling up as the new Monday coach at the South Auckland Riding for the Disabled Association (SARDA).

Despite replacing a well-known coach with an iconic Pukekohe name, Dotty Keven, Renee Faulkner is no greenhorn herself; the group’s equine team leader since February 2025, she brings a wealth of equine and coaching experience to her new role.

In fact, the Drury local has been riding (practically) since before she could walk.

“It definitely feels like that!” Faulkner exclaims. “I have been riding from a very young age and horses have always been a central part of my life. Over the years that’s grown into both a career and a real passion.”

Riding for the Disabled provides horse-based activities and therapy intended to help improve the physical, emotional and social wellbeing of people with disabilities. Sessions are adapted to suit each rider. Based in Drury, SARDA helps disabled people of all ages from throughout southern Auckland.

“The work is incredibly rewarding. Seeing the progress riders make is really special. Even the small wins can be huge, and being part of journeys alongside the riders, their families and the team make the work very meaningful.”

Faulkner first joined SARDA following a recommendation from a family friend.

“I was drawn to [SARDA] because it combines two things that I’m really passionate about – horses and helping people. It offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference through riding, and I really value being part of that.”

However, she realises that she has some big stirrups to fill.

“Dotty has clearly made a huge impact,” Faulkner says. “Rather than trying to replace her, I see it as an opportunity to build on the strong foundation she’s created, while bringing my own skills and energy to the role. I have a lot of respect for what she’s achieved; she is an amazing lady.”

Keven stood down from managerial duties at the end of 2024 to return to a more hands-on role, coaching one day per week. However, she is now stepping away from the organisation altogether to spend more time at home.

“It’s been difficult saying goodbye, but it’s time for me to move on,” she says. “I’m doing a casual driving job, which I’m loving, and I have been building a pottery studio at home to further explore my newfound hobby and my creativity.”

Keven says SARDA has taken her on an incredible journey.

“I’ve been humbled by so many people – the volunteers who give their time, people who donate funds or product, the whanau of our riders and, most importantly, the riders themselves,” she says.

“I have also learnt a lot about myself and how I want to be in the world – most of all humility, kindness and that there are other ways to communicate than just words.”

While Keven is confident SARDA is in good hands, she adds that it has not been easy to set down the reins.

“I’ll miss it all! I’ll miss the laughter, the love, the successes and the challenges that have been such a big part of my world for the past eight years.”