Para-Equestrian Dressage

To the left - Photograph of Sophie Christiansen riding the Para Dressage Training Trust's Lambrusco III

Para-Equestrian Dressage has been slowly developing over the last 25 years, incorporating more riders with a wider variety of disabilities. Riders are classified by certified physiotherapists according to the level of their disability or impairment to ensure the competition is fair. Classification is a process where by the rider's physical ability is assessed resulting in them being graded between I and IV. Once the rider has been classified they can compete in Para-Equestrian (PE) competitions against other riders of the same grade. The number of PE competitions is growing across the UK and whilst some are held at the same time as able-bodied classes, most venues run competitions with only PE classes. Para-Equestrian Dressage is open to riders of any age whose disability has been classified by the RDA (Riding for Disabled Association) or FEI. PE riders can also compete in able bodied competitions using their compensating aids with a dispensation certificate, which can be applied for through British Dressage (BD).

For more information regarding Para-Equestrian Dressage visit; http://www.britishdressage.co.uk/para-equestrian/para-equestrian_dressage