We all know how important horses are to our psyche and how therapeutic a day at the barn can be. Para-Equestrians are an inspiring testament to the healing qualities of horses, and I am so enjoying getting to know the sport, the competitors, and their mounts. The more I watch and learn, the more I think: “Aren’t horses awesome?”
From WKYT, US Para-Equestrian Erin Alberda discusses her journey to WEG with her horse Dylan and trainer Jenny Nell, a Therapeutic Riding Educator.
Click to watch Para-Dressage highlights on USEFNetwork. I’d like to point out that the first rider in the first video on the list, Anne Cecilie Ore, riding Hockey’s Son for Norway, is blind. A reader announces as she approaches each letter. Not only does she have a lovely test, but she never bumps a single panel and stays consistently straight and accurate. Please watch it. I was amazed, and all I could think was “WOW.”
Sabrina Laubscher and Hobis for Switzerland riding in the Individual Grade 1b Division. What a combination; they look totally in sync.
Wendy Fryke and Lateran for the United States riding their Individual Championship Test, Grade III.
The Para-Equestrian Driving Championships in Breda, the Netherlands took place at a regular international driving competition for the first time this September. Like Eventing, there are three phases in Combined Driving: dressage, marathon (like cross-country), and cones. Monique de Bruin (shown in the video) helped the Netherlands to a Silver medal. Germany won Gold and Great Britain won Bronze.
