Dressage is an equestrian discipline originating from ancient cavalry riding. Today’s dressage horses are asked to “dance” – adjust their gaits, move sideways, and bear weight on their hindquarters to display grace and beauty. In competition, a series of prescribed movements makes up a test, which is scored with an overall percentage. “Para” is intended to mean parallel to able-bodied sport; using the same basics in training, gaits, and movements. Para equestrians have a physical, measurable disability. They are classified according to their functional ability and grouped accordingly to ensure a level playing field. Grade I riders are most affected by impairment and grade V are the least affected. Para dressage offers competitive opportunities for athletes of every competitive level including the Paralympics and the World Equestrian Games.
Veronica Gogan - Para Equestrian 