A cruel rule change has prevented a 12-year-old boy in Sydney from exhibiting his passion for riding horses.
Brodie Pankhurst, who has a condition known as Duchenne muscular dystrophy which attacks his muscles, was prevented from competing due to this cruel rule.
He is unable to participate in many of his favorite sports with other kids of his age.
Although doctors warned that Brodie might not live past 30 years, he is still determined to continue participating in various forms of sports. One of these is show horse riding.
He said it gives him something to do and helps him feel better.
Due to a new rule implemented by the New South Wales branch of the Arabian Horse Association, all riders must wear helmets in order to participate in the sport.
This rule prevented Brodie from riding his horse, Ruby.
Mel Millard, Brodie’s mother, said the rule change was heartbreaking for the entire family.
It was especially hard because her son, who relies on a mobility chair, cannot wear a helmet due to his disability.
The rule was implemented to ensure the safety of the other riders and horses.
She noted that the organization prevented her daughter from competing unless they dropped their legal action against them.
Mel Millard stated that they would drop the case if Brodie is allowed to ride his mobility chair.
