Leap of Faith: Eva’s Inspirational Skydive for Horses

This courageous leap highlights Eva Novi’s remarkable personal transformation over the past few years and her deep commitment to The Mare and Foal Sanctuary, which she says helped to change her life for the better.

Four years ago, Eva, 33, from Torquay, found herself in a very dark place, struggling with severe anxiety following her graduation from university. Confined to her home during the lockdown, she watched others gradually regain their lives, while she battled to find the confidence to leave her house. This changed when she discovered the National Lottery funded “This Girl Can Exercise with Equines” scheme, which was being run at Coombe Park – our Education and Equestrian Centre near Totnes

“It was a huge personal challenge,” Eva recalls. “Once I got out the door and began interacting with horses, I didn’t look back. Visiting Coombe Park was the highlight of my week, and I eventually started volunteering at the Sanctuary’s Newton Abbot stables too. It was hard work, but I loved every minute of it.”

Through her experiences with us, Eva developed a profound connection with the equines, many of whom have also faced hardship in the past. “The Sanctuary has a unique way of allowing people and equines to connect, through guided therapeutic sessions. I wanted to give back to them because they helped me at a time when I desperately needed it.”

When a job opportunity arose at Honeysuckle rehabilitation yard, Eva was initially nervous about applying but ultimately embraced the chance. “Working here has completely changed my life. It’s my happy place. If you had told six-year-old Eva that she would be working with horses every day for a living, she wouldn’t have believed it. But here I am, and I feel incredibly lucky.”

A study by the University of Brighton and Plumpton College on behalf of The British Horse Society has shown that spending time with horses can stimulate positive psychological feelings, potentially reducing depression by 30% and lowering the chance of dementia by 30%, highlighting the significant mental health benefits of interacting with horses.*

Dawn Vincent, Director of Fundraising and Communications, praised Eva’s achievements and determination: “Eva inspires everyone here by conquering her fears in such a positive way. On April 26th, she’ll not only be stepping out of her comfort zone; she’ll literally be stepping out of a plane at 10,000 feet! As a registered charity, we rely entirely on donations and legacy gifts. Without the generosity of our supporters, we wouldn’t be able to continue rescuing and rehabilitating ponies and horses in urgent need. For anyone else wanting to take on such an epic personal challenge, we’d love you to join Eva for this amazing opportunity to help provide better lives for horses, ponies and people.”

You can support Eva’s fundraising challenge  https://www.justgiving.com/page/eva-novi-1

Additionally, another skydive event has been scheduled for 2025 on October 4th, coinciding with World Animal Day and World Smile Day. Supporters are encouraged to mark their calendars and prepare for a life-changing experience while raising vital funds for the horses and ponies in the Sanctuary’s care.

Challenge yourself and help make a real difference!

There’s more information here: https://mareandfoal.org/event/skydive/

*For reference: https://research.brighton.ac.uk/en/publications/the-health-benefits-of-horse-riding-in-the-uk