New for this year will be a Scotland round of the Para-Equestrian Rider Development which will take place at Ingliston Country Club, Bishopton, Renfrewshire on Saturday 2 May. Kindly supported by the Para Dressage Training Trust (PDTT), this inaugural fixture, which is for newcomers to the sport, has been added to the 2015 calendar on top of its equivalent at Solihull in August.
The goal of the day, aside from exposing future pros, is to give developing para riders north of the border a chance to put their skills to the test in a professional yet friendly environment. Giving the perfect intro to para dressage competitions, with an emphasis on the rider’s training and development, the day involves:
- Test riding using the relevant test for the rider’s grade
- A feedback session with the judge who’ll give tips on how to get those extra marks
- A 20-minute training session with a para coach where the rider will be marked on ability and response to training and advice
- A Q&A education session based on a written test paper, to help underpin knowledge about the sport and to help develop technical ability
The day is really accessible too. Test commanders are allowed and riders do not need to be BD members to take part. They just need to bring a horse, either their own or borrowed, and fall within para rider group D or E. The fee is £35 per rider and entries close on 13 April 2015. For the entry package click here and for more information please email friederike.von.voigts-rhetz@britishdressage.co.uk
Alongside Rider Development will be a Pick Your Own competition, where riders can opt to ride their test of choice, regardless of grade.