It may be 14 days until the Paralympics get underway in Rio, but you only have to wait until Sunday 28 August to catch some top class para dressage action! The Festival of Para Dressage is being hosted once again by the team at Solihull Riding Club and includes championships at Bronze and Silver level across the five grades as well as the unique Rider Development showcase event for riders new to the sport or at a novice level.
Riders from around the country have come forward for this year’s Rider Development opportunity. It’s not just a competition, for some it’s a life changing experience! Riders compete in age categories; 13 – 15, 16 – 25 and over 25 and will ride tests according to their grade, judged by Joyce Head from List 2. Each competitor will then have a 20 minute session with our guest Para Coaches where their ability is assessed and plenty of feedback given. The lucky 15 riders this year are in for a real treat as these sessions will be with none other than Paralympic team gold medallist Sophie Wells (on the eve of her departure for Rio) and international trainer Nina Venables. The riders will then get valuable feedback from the judge on their test earlier in the day including tips on how to glean extra marks next time. There’s also a short written test which is completed ahead of time and submitted on the day. All the stages are combined to find an overall winner with training bursaries up for grabs courtesy of the British Dressage Supporters Club and the Para Dressage Training Trust with the highest scorer collecting a beautifully hand crafted head collar from the Worshipful Company of Saddlers.
Alongside the Rider Development, will be the eagerly awaited Championships for our Bronze and Silver para riders across the five grades with prizes generously provided by the on-site saddlers, Horsesense. It’s a busy day with competition starting at 9:00am and the last rider up the centre line at 18.05. There’s a great café on site to stop the tummy rumbling and the team at Solihull always give a warm welcome.
Although Britain’s biggest sports day, IamTeamGB Day is the day before, this is a great chance for anyone interested in taking up para dressage to learn all about the sport and what’s involved. Who knows – there could be a Tokyo 2020 medallist among the competitors on show! So come along and be inspired – our Para Officer Rachel Smith is around all day and is happy to chat and answer questions.
For times and results – click here
Photo - © Kevin Sparrow - pictured is Emily Skerrett and Queen Bee who'll be riding in the Grade IV Silver Novice Championship