Huang assigns training tasks to his fellow classmates. [Photo/Xinhua]

And in order to get familiar with the animals, they first began to bathe them every day and fix their horseshoes, besides cleaning the stables.

And soon, with their coach's instructions, they began to learn and master the various movements needed for equestrian events.

At present, most of the 90 students are admitted to well-known equestrian clubs in Beijing and Shanghai.

"This has given the rural children an alternative.

"I believe that by learning this skill they can change their fate themselves.

"At the same time, they have become more self-disciplined, confident and strong," says Wu Qingde, a teacher at the equestrian school.