Para Equestrians Share Stage With Able-bodied Riders At World Equestrian Games
(Louisville Courier-Journal)
October 5, 2010
LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY– [Excerpt] Throughout the Kentucky Horse Park, athletes in wheelchairs, on crutches and with prosthetic limbs are preparing to compete in the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
Para dressage, which starts today with the team competition, will mark the first time athletes with disabilities have competed on this international stage.
“It’s such a big step for us to be included in such a big sports venue,” said Rebecca Hart, the top-ranked member of the U.S. team.
The rules of para dressage are the same as for standard dressage — in which horses and riders must perform a prescribed set of movements or maneuvers.
Para equestrians have competed internationally for many years, but typically those competitions are part of the Paralympics or held by themselves.
“This is what it’s all about, bringing elite athletes together — whether they are disabled or able body,” said Hope Hand, president of the U.S. Para Equestrian Association.
Entire article:
Para equestrians share stage with able-bodied riders at World Equestrian Games
http://www.courier-journal.com/article/2010310040104
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