Delia McLean, PWASNZ Rangatahi Lead

Delia McLean - represented all riders so well in Parliament when she helped present the VRU Petition.

Hi, my name is Delia and I’ve been riding for two years.  Riding makes me happy and at the moment I’m giving barrel racing a go. 

My pony is fast and loves it.  She’s not much of a jumper anymore so that’s why I’m trying new sports.  She is fit and has low heart rates, which is why we do well in competitive trail riding.  Keeping her fit is sometimes why we have to venture on to the road.  We need to do bigger circuits. 

“I felt scared riding on our roads'“

Before the Pass Wide & Slow road safety message came to New Zealand, I felt very scared riding on the road. Drivers are unpredictable. Some go so fast and so close.  Just like if I was on a bike or walking, drivers should slow down, be patient and give space.  Even more so when there is an animal as they have a mind of their own. 

When my Mum suggested I deliver my school speech on ‘why horse riders don’t feel safe on the road’ to the Mayors and Chair of the Regional Transport Committee, I didn’t hesitate to accept.  After all, it’s important that leaders hear from young people and the impact that no road safety messaging or education is having on horse riders’ ability to be safe on the road. 

Many riders are young like me.  Canterbury’s Mayors thanked me for sharing my thoughts and gave unanimous support for horse riders to be formally recognised as a vulnerable road user.  I was proud.  I wore my high vis vest with the Pass Wide and Slow message and I’ve noticed now that when I ride out on the road, drivers are slowing down and giving us at least 2-metres space.  I thank those drivers.  I also use my hand signals to slow drivers down. 

I appreciate when they listen because it means they want to keep me and my mum safe, and them too. After all, I’m riding a 350kg animal – I don’t want her to be hurt, or me or the driver and their passengers.

We need to look after each other and remember that we are all someone’s daughter, wife, aunty, cousin, husband, partner.  

When you see a horse and rider or carriage driver – slow down, follow their instructions and give them space.  Thank you!

Delia’s Why

Riders on the road are often women and children.  We are managing an animal with a mind of its own and doing our best.  We rely on other road users to make good choices to keep us safe.