‘Pass Wide and Slow’ campaign promotes equestrian safety
The campaign also focused on the safety of cyclists and pedestrians sharing the road.
To enhance road safety for equestrians, Ward 24 Clr Nicola da Silva spearheaded the Pass Wide and Slow awareness campaign on October 26 along High Road.
The awareness ride, which began just after 09:00, saw a group of horse riders clad in yellow vests embarking on an 8km ride that started at the 5th Avenue Equestrian Centre and proceeded through surrounding streets.
Ward 25 Clr Marinda Beukes was also there to support the event.
While many drivers were cautious and considerate, there were instances of disrespect towards the riders, with one motorist hooting at the group of riders and causing distress among the horses.
According to Da Silva, the campaign sought to raise awareness about the importance of safe driving around horses and for motorists to respect the space of equestrians on the road. It was also focused on the safety of cyclists and pedestrians sharing the road.
“This initiative is part of an international riding programme, and we’re ride number 235. We need legislation that will better protect vulnerable road users, such as mandating drivers to pass horses at a maximum speed of 15 km/h and maintain a distance of at least two metres.”
She emphasised that if a horse collides with a vehicle, the consequences could be catastrophic for the horse, its rider and the driver.
“If animals are frightened they can be unpredictable. A startled horse could behave erratically, posing a danger to everyone on the road.”
In Ward 24 a few months ago, a vehicle hit a horse from behind and although the horse was injured, it survived, Da Silva added.
Elize Broodryk, one of the horse riders who participated in the awareness event, said many people are careless and don’t understand how dangerous it is to pass a horse at high speed.
“We hope the more awareness we do in the area, the more people will realise that horses can get spooked easily.”
Loren Koen, owner of 5th Avenue Equestrian, welcomed this initiative, saying that more awareness is needed as there’s a great need for caution.
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