The following is an extract from a http://dressageatdevon.org press release. Congratulations to Phil Silva for being such a positive role model.
“While the handlers sometimes go unnoticed, Phil Silva caught the eye this year as Dressage At Devon’s first helmeted handler. Silva’s unusual headgear was the result of his discovery through the school of hard knocks that horse‐handling can be hazardous to one’s health.
In August, Silva was kicked in the head by a horse he was showing. The impact left him not only black and blue but with a fear he’d never experienced before. He knew he needed to find a way to conquer it.
One day at a show he saw helmets for sale and bought one on impulse. “I never thought I’d have a helmet, but it’s given me a second chance and allowed me to continue to pursue my passion.” As he sported the helmet for the first time, other handlers asked him about it. If interest remains at this level, it’s possible Silva’s safety gear is going to be a trendsetter. His feeling about safety may also influence children since he teaches handling to young riders including Dressage4Kids.”
