"They wanted to stay a little longer," is the impression two sisters brought back with them after spending five days at the Equestrian-Recreational Center Pegasos in Sarajevo. The younger sister is six and the older one is 10 years old, and this was their first such experience for both. Upon arrival, each of them was assigned a horse to take care of during the camp, under the supervision of instructors. Early waking, feeding the horses, breakfast, tidying up the room, and then various activities at the camp.
"They rode every day, took care of the horses and equipment, and in the afternoons competed in sports orienteering, darts, archery with equipment adapted for children. They participated in mountaineering workshops, descended and climbed onto the stable roof with appropriate equipment, and in first aid workshops learned how to help their peers and adults in case of accidents on outings or in the mountains. Lectures were held on the dangers in the mountains, what to pack in a backpack, as well as theoretical lectures about horses. In addition, they also participated in art workshops, watched a movie one night, and dressed up at a masquerade. We designed the program so that their time was filled with a variety of activities that were not only fun but will also benefit them in the future," explained Tanja Đozo, co-founder and director of the Equestrian-Recreational Center Pegasos.
The youngest sister was also the bravest. She was the first to ride a horse and beat all the boys in the strength and balance game at the very beginning of the camp.
"They quickly made friends with other children and won our hearts. As soon as they saw me, they would run into my arms," said Đozo.
The girls come from a family at risk of separation. They have a 12-year-old brother with developmental difficulties who, unfortunately, could not participate. Their father, the only employed member of the family, was recently hospitalized due to deteriorating health. Despite this, the joy, unforgettable experience, and smiles of these girls bring light and new energy into their family's life.
The camp was funded by the Sami Čarmdžić Fund for a Happy Childhood, at the initiative of the "Second" Foundation, which has been helping this family for a year through cooperation with the Department for Child and Family Support of the Cantonal Public Institution Home for Children without Parental Care Sarajevo. The camp costs amounted to 900 KM (450 EUR).