Para-Dressage

In 2006, Para-Equestrian sport joined the ranks of the other seven disciplines regulated by the FEI, with national and international competitions for Dressage for individuals with a disability. All rules and regulations related to competition venues and testing are governed by the same principles as other disciplines. The formula for Para-Equestrian Dressage is the same as for standard Dressage, with tests based on a set programme of movements as well as Freestyle tests.

Para-Equestrian Dressage is the only Equestrian discipline that is included in the Paralympic Games, where it has been a regular fixture since 1996. The mobility, strength and coordination of competitors are assessed and athletes with similar functional ability profiles are grouped into competition grades that range from Grade Ia for the most severely impaired to Grade IV for the least impaired. This means that the competition within each Grade can be judged on the skill of the individual competitors on their horses, regardless of their disabilities. The system also makes it possible to offer opportunities for disabled athletes to compete and achieve their goals in equestrian sport.