Rebecca Hart (USA) and Lord Ludger at the 2012 London Paralympics. Photo by Lindsay Yosay McCall

101 of Para-Equestrian Dressage

Presented by

The United States Para-Equestrian Association

Contributions by:

Lloyd Landkamer – Former Chair of USEF PE Technical Committee Member of USDF Dressage Committee Phone: (612) 290-8523 Fax: (763) 420-7051 [email protected]

Dr. Mike Tomlinson – Chair of USEF PE Technical Committee Phone: 805-279-3228 [email protected]

Hope Hand – USPEA - United States Para-Equestrian Association, Executive Director, Athlete Director Board Member of USEF, Chair of the USEF Para-Dressage High Performance Committee. Home Phone: (610) 356-6481 Cell Phone: (610) 368-1416 [email protected] www.USPEA.org

Para-Equestrian Dressage Rider Bettina Eistel

Table of Contents

Page Context

1 Question and Answers for Para-Equestrians competing in Dressage

4 Management Guide on hosting a Para-Equestrian (PE) Dressage Class

6 Results from 2012 Paralympic Equestrian Games in London, England

7 Dispensation Certification Program

8 Para-Equestrian Classification

10 Para-Equestrian US Ranking

12 Veteran Assistant Program

14 Para-Equestrian Overview

Question and Answers for Para-Equestrians competing in Dressage

How Do I get involved in Para-Equestrian Classes at national level shows? If you have a permanent, measurable disability you may compete in Para-Equestrian (PE) Classes. PE Classes are held at either FEI/USEF PE shows (for riders with a disability) or at open USEF/USDF shows. If you require compensating aids or adaptations to allow you to compete, you must apply for a United States Equestrian Federation “USEF” Dispensation Certificate. To learn more about the USEF Dispensation Program, please go to the following web page of the USEF: http://www.usef.org/documents/highPerformance/paralympic/DispensationProgram.pdf or follow this path: www.usef.org – breeds/disciplines – disciplines – Para-Equestrian – High Performance Para-Equestrian. The dispensation certificates are used only for permanent measurable disabilities, not those that are temporary. The dispensation certificate will list all appropriate compensating aides and adaptive equipment that the particular athlete will be permitted to use in competition. The aids are to be compensatory in nature, not providing any advantage to any athlete. The aides and equipment listed on the certificate are approved by the USEF Adaptive Sports Committee. The committee will review each applicant’s individual needs and aids requested and prepare a dispensation certificate permitting such aids and equipment if deemed necessary and safe. Not all riders will need compensating aids or adaptations to compete. These riders should include a doctor’s letter stating their permanent disability with their entries. This will inform the show secretary that a dispensation certificate is not needed and that they do not require compensating aids of adaptations. How Can I find out where I can compete and competition information? Currently the FEI PE Classes are offered at national level dressage competitions. The United States Dressage Federation (www.usdf.org) web site hosts a page that lists all USDF Licensed shows by region. The show page includes a legend of codes that lists the classes and divisions that have been approved for each competition. Shows offering PE classes will have a designation of “PE” next to the show name. Also, the USEF website, www.usef.org, allows an individual to search competitions by discipline. In addition, you may visit the FEI website, www.fei.org to obtain information on international competitions. If there is a show in the area that does not currently offer these classes, consider asking the show management to offer these classes. A useful document to provide organizers is “Management Guide to Hosting Para-Equestrian (PE) Dressage Classes” which is posted on both the USDF and the USEF web sites. Will I be allowed to participate in regular classes at national level shows? Yes, of course. You can use the compensating aides and adaptive equipment listed on your Dispensation Certificate. However, you need to follow the current equivalent levels and tack rules. They are: FEI Grade Ia is equivalent to USDF Intro Level. FEI Grade Ib is equivalent to USEF Training Level. FEI Grade II is equivalent to USEF First Level. FEI Grade III is equivalent to USEF Second Level. FEI Grade IV is equivalent to USEF Third Level.

Horses are only allowed to perform at consecutive levels. For example, if you are performing in the FEI Grade II classes, then you could rider either Training Level, in addition to your Grade II tests. If cross entering between the FEI PE Classes and the USEF National tests, only the bits permitted for the equivalent USEF level will be permitted for use in both the FEI PE tests and the equivalent USEF level. If entered in only FEI PE tests at a competition, riders have the option of using either a plain snaffle of simple double bridle.

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Many riders challenge themselves to ride above their grading level in national FEI classes. By providing your dispensation certificates (if needed) with your entries, you may ride in any National/FEI level at which you are capable while using the compensating aides and adaptive equipment listed. You may not be able to participate in any of the FEI PE Tests due to the consecutive level rule if you are riding at a higher level. For instance, a Grade IV rider may show their horse at the FEI Prix St. Georges level in regular dressage shows, but since the FEI Grade IV tests are equivalent to USEF third Level and more than one level below the Prix St. Georges level, this rider would not be able to show in both the PSG and Grade IV (or Third Level) tests at the same competition.

Where can I find the FEI PE Tests that are used in these classes? These tests are currently posted on the FEI web site under the Para-Equestrian Discipline area. These are free downloads at www.FEI.org. (Disciplines > Useful information for managers & organizers > organizers > Para- Equestrian Dressage > Dressage Tests) The specific link is http://www.fei.org/disciplines/officials-organisers/organisers/para-equestrian- dressage/dressage-tests. What memberships and registrations with the USDF and USEF will be needed to participate in the national level competitions that offer the FEI PE classes? When competing in ONLY the FEI PE classes – the USDF exempts riders, horses and owners of any memberships, registrations, and non-member fees (http://www.usdf.org/docs/ShowFlash/web/GeneralInfo/Before/MembershipExceptionList.pdf). The USEF requires the following information for participating in the FEI PE classes:  Horse – Must have at least a USEF Horse ID (free if done online)  Rider – membership  Owner – membership If entering any national tests, then all the current membership requirements are in effect. Both USEF and USDF membership/registration requirement’s link are http://www.usdf.org/competitions/competitors/membership- checklist.asp.

What do I need to include with my entry to participate in classes at national level shows? The current dispensation guidelines state that four copies of your dispensation certificate must be included with your entry. This is for the judge’s review, the technical delegates, and show management. Copies of your certificate are attached to your test copy so the judge may have it during your performance. It will help the show office, if you do not need a dispensation aide, (USEF Dressage Rules state they must have at least a USEF Dispensation – consider re-writing this) to include a copy of a doctor’s letter stating your permanent disability and that you do not need a dispensation. It is recommended that you include a copy of the tests you wish to perform with your entry. This ensures that show management will be aware of the exact tests you want to ride and will help avoid any last minute confusion. Are there any “all Para-Equestrian” events? This should be written in the past tense. Several International events have taken place in the United States since 2010. In 2010, the USA hosted the World Equestrian Games in which Para-Equestrian Dressage was held. This was the first time that the Para athletes competed in the international games with their able bodied peers. Future World Equestrian Games will include Para Dressage. What is “classification” and what events require classification? Equestrians with permanent, measurable disabilities are encouraged to become classified. Currently, for athletes wishing to participate in national level shows, only a dispensation certificate is required. To compete in national championships, selection trials or international events, classification is mandatory.

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National or International Classification must be performed by one or more FEI approved Classifiers in order to participate in an all Para-Equestrian events, national championships, selection trails for international championships, or the Paralympic program as an athlete on a National/Elite team or the Paralympic team. Classification is an attempt to ensure fair equestrian competition. All riders with a disability who intend to enter national championships, selection trials or international competitions must produce an FEI or USEF classification card that states their grade, profile and approved compensations aids. The assessed impairment and the resulting functional profile are compared with other profiles that should have similar ability when mounted. There are five grades of competition within each competition. Grade Ia and Ib is for the riders with a severe impairment, Grade IV is for the riders with the least impairment. The competition within each Grade can then be judged on the functional skill of the rider regardless of impairment. Impairments are issues in body function of structure, such as a significant deviation or loss. Impairments may be broadly classified as physical (Including locomotor), intellectual, and/or sensory. Do I have to compete at my classification grade? No, as with everything in life, people are at different levels of competency. Some people are just beginning their equestrian affair and need the chance to learn to ride. Staring competitions in a lower grade class is permitted. How do I get classified for my sport? If you are interested in being classified, please contact the USEF Director of Para-Equestrian Activities at (908) 326-1153. The director will coordinate an approved Classifier from your area. How do I get on the USEF Dressage Para-Equestrian Ranking List? Please visit the USEF website at www.usef.org – breeds/disciplines – disciplines – Para-Equestrian – High Performance Para-Equestrian. The Dressage PD Ranking List Specifications are posted along with the Ranking List. The criteria may change annually, so stay informed by regularly checking the website. How do I qualify for the Paralympic Team? Please visit the USEF website at www.usef.org – breeds/disciplines – disciplines – Para-Equestrian – High Performance Para-Equestrian. The current Paralympic Selection Procedures will be posted. What other source of information can help me in participating as a Para-Equestrian? Always reference the USEF rule book for the most current rules and information. You may also go to the USPEA website at www.USPEA.org. What other websites can I visit to obtain more information? In addition to the previously mentioned web sites, you can also visit www.paralympics.com for a complete list of sports included in the Paralympics. You may also visit www.USPEA.org for information about competitions, fellow para-equestrians, and current news on the Para-Equestrian discipline. What are the drug testing requirements for riders? Athletes who have been identified as being a potential candidate for a US team will be added to USADA’s Registered Testing Pool. For additional information visit the web site for USADA at www.usada.org. Who can I contact to get me started? The USEF Director of Para-Equestrian Activities at (908) 326-1155, or Hope Hand at the USPEA at [email protected] or 610-356-6481

Current USEF High Performance Para-Equestrian Director:

Laureen Johnson - International High Performance Director, Para-Equestrian & Vaulting USEF - United States Equestrian Federation, Inc.; [email protected] www.usef.org P.O. Box 83 - Gladstone, NJ 07934; Phone: (908) 326-1155; Fax: (908) 234-941 Page 3

Management Guide to Hosting Para-Equestrian (PE) Dressage Classes

By Lloyd Landkamer, Janine Malone, and Veronica Holt

For the current show season, many shows want to offer the Para-Equestrian (PE) classes and asked for some ideas on how to do so. The easiest format is to offer these standard tests as Test of Choice (TOC) classes. All of these tests can be ridden in a standard arena (20m x 60m) so there is not the issue of shortening and lengthening the arenas. Competitions can also offer the Freestyles as a separate Test of Choice (TOC) class – but there are some fine points that need to be kept in mind when offering this class. First point - Grades I, Ia and II must be ridden in a shortened arena (20m x 40m) while Grades III and IV are in a standard size arena. While most of your entries in the competition will probably be Grades I through II, if you do offer the Freestyle class as a single TOC in your prize list, you will have to split it after you review your entries and determine that you have some athletes that need one size arena and others another size. If you find that you need both the small and standard-size arenas for riders in the same class, you can deal with it in one of two ways: change your prize list to offer two separate FEI PE Freestyle TOC classes or create two separate divisions of the class for awards purposes. The reason you have to split to two different divisions or offer two separate classes is that by the issue of changing the arena size - you have created two different ring conditions and that is not allowed by USEF rules (USEF DR126.1) during a single class or division. Remember, if you choose to offer two separate classes – this will require a change to your prize list and the following procedures must be followed: GR904 Changes in Prize List. - If the prize list must be changed after it has been distributed to potential exhibitors the following procedures must be followed. Notification of specific changes to a prize list must be made to the Federation and exhibitors via email or mail as well as being posted on a competition’s website. This will serve as notification for the requirements of this rule. In the cases where electronic communication is not available, then notification must be made as specified under this rule. 1. If errors are discovered or changes made up to 10 days prior to the closing of entries, notify potential exhibitors in writing of the specific changes. 2. If errors are discovered or changes made after that date, notify exhibitors on receipt of entries, and in writing when they arrive at the competition of the specific changes. 3. If classes are omitted or premiums decreased, notify only affected exhibitors 5 days prior to the competition in writing, by e-mail or by wire, thereafter these classes cannot be reinstated. In this instance, entry fee refunds must be given in all cases. 4. If classes are added or premiums increased, unless required under division rules, notify potential exhibitors in writing, by e-mail or by wire at least 5 days prior to the competition. Post entries must be accepted in such classes.

Currently, the USDF show approval forms offer a check box that shows that the competition is willing to offer Para-Equestrian classes. This helps riders in finding shows in their area that are willing to offer these classes. If the show is offering the classes after the approval application is made, please contact the USDF competition department to add this to your show approval. This will give the riders the chance to search the approval page on the USDF web site for the designation of “PE” next to the show name. When the riders enter the show, their entry must include a copy of their USEF dispensation certificates and a copy of the test(s) they wish to ride. Copies of these certificates must be attached to the Judge’s copy of the tests. Copies should also be provided to the technical delegate. It will be up to the technical delegate or their designee to do an equipment check to verify that the items listed on the Dispensation Certificate are being correctly used and no additional items are being used.

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DR119.11Individuals with disabilities that require use of compensatory aids or adaptive equipment and holding Federation Dispensation Certificates are eligible to participate. A copy of a rider’s Dispensation Certificate which lists all of his or her allowed compensating aids and adaptive equipment must be included with the rider’s entry, with a copy then attached to each of their Dressage sheets for the Judge’s reference. Additional copies of the tests can be downloaded from the FEI website at www.FEI.org.

The Technical Side of the Rules

The technical delegates should apply the practical interpretation of the USEF rules as they currently exist. Always remember that the Division or Discipline rules take precedence over the General rules.

The equivalency of Grades and Levels are: FEI Grade Ia is equivalent to USDF Intro Level. FEI Grade Ib is equivalent to USEF Training Level. FEI Grade II is equivalent to USEF First Level. FEI Grade III is equivalent to USEF Second Level. FEI Grade IV is equivalent to USEF Third Level.

Riders may only use the saddlery and tack that are permitted for use at the current USEF Levels that their grading is equivalent to unless exceptions have been listed on the USEF Dispensation certificate.

Riders must follow current USEF Dressage Division dressage codes as outlined in DR120 unless exceptions are noted on their USEF Dispensation Certificate.

All PE-FEI tests must be executed from memory unless stated on their dispensation certificate.

Horses can only be entered in the maximum number of tests per day that is allowed by the equivalent USEF level. Riders may cross enter between the FEI Para Classes and the USEF National tests but must follow the “two level rule”, according to the equivalent levels listed above and published on the USEF website, and must use only the bits permitted for USEF tests at that level. Riders in Grades I-III who wish to use a double bridle in their PE tests should not enter a USEF test at the same competition.

Riders grading are established by classifiers. Not all riders will have classification cards and are not required to have one in their possession, but can choose to ride in national shows at grades lower or higher than their grading if one is presented.

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Final Results Ind. Championship Test - London 2012

Grade Rank Rider Horse Country %Score Ia 1 Janeiro GBR 82.750 2 Helen Kearney Mister Cool IRL 76.700 3 Laurentia Tan Ruben SIN 73.650

Ib 1 Joann Formosa Worldwide AUS 75.826 2 Gentleman GBR 75.391 3 Pepo Puch Fine Feeling AUT 75.043

II 1 Natasha Baker Cabral GBR 76.857 2 Britta Napel Aquilina GER 76.048 3 Angelika Trabert Ariva-Avanti GER 76.000

III 1 Hannelore Brenner Women of the W. GER 73.467 2 LJT Akilles GBR 71.267 3 Annika Dalsov Aros A Fenris DEN 71.233

IV 1 George Michele Rainman BEL 77.065 2 Pinocchio GBR 76.323 3 Frank Hosmar Alphaville NED 73.097

These are the results from the 2012 in London, England. We have added them to this booklet to give athletes an idea of what kind of scores are necessary to achieve a medal at the next international event. USEF is looking to make up a team of athletes that have the potential to medal.

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DISPENSATION CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

Linked below is an application for a Dispensation Certificate for any individual with permanent, measurable disabilities. Once it is completed in full and returned to the U.S. Equestrian Federation, it will be submitted and reviewed by the USEF Adaptive Sports Committee.

The Adaptive Sports Committee will review each applicant’s individual needs and aids requested and prepare a dispensation certificate permitting such aids and equipment if deemed necessary and safe.

The dispensation certificates are used only for permanent, measurable disabilities, not those that are temporary. The aids are to be compensatory in nature, not providing any advantage to any exhibitor. The dispensation certificate shall list all aids and equipment permitted for use by the particular athlete applying. Four copies of the dispensation certificate are required to be sent with the entry form to the event organizer or competition secretary. Copies are needed for the organizer/secretary, the technical delegate/steward and one copy of the certificate is to be attached to each of the exhibitor’s tests.

Please fill out the application fully and be sure to check the current USEF Equestrian rules as to whether the aids or equipment you are asking for is permitted by the USEF and also whether the aids or equipment is already permitted without need of a dispensation certificate. Should you have a National classification card, please attach a copy with your application. If there are any questions about the dispensation program, about opportunities for riders or drivers with disabilities, please call Laureen Johnson at 908-326-1155 or email [email protected].

Note: to get the current application visit the USEF web site: http://www.usef.org/documents/highPerformance/paralympic/DispensationApplication.pdf

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Equestrian Classifications for Dressage

To view the FEI Classification Manual, Classification documents, and Profile descriptions please visit: http://www.fei.org/sites/default/files/file/DISCIPLINES/DRESSAGE/Rules/2012%20Classification%20manual_FINAL_%2021f eb_changes%20marked%20in%20red.pdf

DRESSAGE FOR ATHLETES WITH DISABILITIES

GRADE PROFILES

Ia 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 12a, 13

Mainly wheelchair users with impairment of all 4 limbs, may be able to walk with an unsteady gait, however trunk and balance are severely impaired

Ib 4, 6, 9,10a, 11a, 12b, 31a

Mainly wheelchair users with poor trunk balance and or impairment of function in all four limbs, or no trunk balance and good upper limb function, or moderate trunk balance with severe impairment of all 4 limbs.

Grade Ia and Grade Ib may be combined (each rides own Grade Dressage test).- II 8, 10b, 11b, 14, 17a, 18a, 27, 31b,32

Mainly wheelchair users, or those with severe locomotor impairment involving the trunk and with good to mild upper limb function, those with severe arm impairment and slight leg impairment or severe unilateral impairment.

III 15, 17b, 18b, 19a, 21, 25, 26a, 28, 36, 39

Usually able to walk without support. Moderate unilateral impairment, or moderate impairment in four limbs, severe arm impairment. May need a wheelchair for longer distances or due to lack of stamina. Total loss of sight in both eyes, or intellectually impaired. Blacked out glasses or blind fold must be worn by Profile 36 Athletes. IV 16, 19b, 20, 22, 23, 24, 26b, 37a Impairment in one or two limbs or some visual impairment.

V Not eligible 29, 30, 37b, 38, 42, 48

Minimal disability criteria (MDC) for Para-Equestrian functional Profiles 1. Each rider must have more than 15% loss of power, range or coordination in any limb or the trunk. (See Base line scores)

2. Each rider must have a recognized medical condition that causes impairment which can be measured objectively. A symptom, such as lax ligaments or pain is not acceptable.  3. Some functional profiles are not eligible for certain equestrian disciplines

When the following conditions exist with no other physical impairment, the following conditions are not eligible for Para Equestrian sports: . a) wear and tear due to advancing age, . b) general debilitating disease, . c) obesity, . d) osteochondritis, . e) psychiatric conditions, . f) skin diseases, . g) haemophilia Page 8

. h) epilepsy . i) respiratory conditions . j) fatigue as in fibromyalgia and myalgic encephalitis . k) vertigo or dizziness . l) internal organ dysfunction or absence . m) IBSA Class B3,and B4 . n) Cardiac/circulatory conditions

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United States Equestrian Federation, Inc.

The National Governing Body for Equestrian Sport

High Performance

P.O. Box 83, Gladstone, NJ 07934

Phone: 908-234-0848 Fax: 908-234-9417 www.usef.org

Para-Equestrian Dressage Ranking List Specifications

General Eligibility Requirements:

-Must be a United States Citizen

-Must be Active Members in good standing of USEF

-Riders must have either National or International FEI PE classification and be assigned a Grade.

Ranking List:

-Ranking will be determined by Horse/Rider combinations.

-All Horse/Rider combinations will be listed, but a minimum of three scores must be submitted to be ranked, one of which must be a FEI PE Championship test. Scores must also be from three different competitions.

-The Horse/Rider combination Ranking Scores is the average score of the the top three test scores submitted.

-Ranking List will be separated by Grade 1a-1b-II-III-IV

-Scores must be achieved at a USEF or FEI recognized competition

-All Grades and tests must be scored by a USEF large "R" rated or above judges or FEI PE recognized judges

-Rider is responsible to check the Ranking List and verify the results.

The Ranking List is an ongoing list. Scores will age off eighteen months after the date of competition.

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-Weighted Scores: The following scores will be weighted:

-USEF National Championship +5%

-FEI PE3* and above Competitions +10%

-Ranking List can be viewed at http://www.usef.org/_IFrames/breedsdisciplines/discipline/allparaequestrian/hpparaEquestrian.aspx

-The Ranking List is a living document and updated each month

-Scores may be submitted for USEF tests at your Grade or above:

Equivalent Levels:

FEI Grade Ia is equivalent to USDF Intro Level. FEI Grade Ib is equivalent to USEF Training Level. FEI Grade II is equivalent to USEF First Level. FEI Grade III is equivalent to USEF Second Level. FEI Grade IV is equivalent to USEF Third Level.

-Freestyle scores will not be used on Ranking List

-Rider is responsible to submit a copy of the score sheet to the USEF office lists below.

Laureen Johnson - International High Performance Director, Para-Equestrian & Vaulting

USEF - United States Equestrian Federation, Inc.

P.O. Box 83 - Gladstone, NJ 07934

Phone: (908) 326-1153

Fax: (908) 234-9417

Email: [email protected]

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United States Olympic Committee and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Veteran Assistance Program for Para-Equestrian Dressage Athletes

The U.S. Olympic Committee supports Paralympic-eligible military veterans in their efforts to represent the USA at the upcoming Paralympic Games and other International competitions. Veterans who demonstrate exceptional sport skills and the commitment necessary to pursue elite-level competition are given guidance on securing the training, support, and coaching needed to qualify for Team USA and achieve their Paralympic dreams.

Through a partnership with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the VA Paralympic Program Office helps to provide a monthly assistance allowance for disabled Veterans of the Armed Forces, as authorized by section 703 of the Veterans’ Benefits Improvement Act of 2008.

Through the program, the VA will pay a monthly allowance to a Veteran with a service-connected or non-service-connected disability if the Veteran meets the minimum military standard or higher (i.e. Emerging, Talent Pool, National Team) in his/her respective sport at a recognized competition.

GENERAL PARA-EQUESTRIAN DRESSAGE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: In addition to meeting the military standard, athletes must:  Be 17 years or older as of December 1, 2012.  Be a U.S. citizen/Veteran.  Must be a current member in good standing of USEF at the time that the Required Scores are achieved.  Be medically eligible in accordance with the FEI Classification Manual for Para-Equestrian Competitions, 3rd Edition, 2012 and Article 8422 of the Rules for FEI Para-Equestrian Dressage Events to compete in Para-Equestrian dressage competitions. To do so, riders shall have either a national or international Para-Equestrian classification and be assigned a Grade. For more information regarding classification, visit the FEI website at http://www.fei.org/disciplines/dressage/about-para-equestrian-dressage. To schedule a national or international classification, contact Laureen Johnson at the USEF at 908-326-1155.  Ride independently (without side aides).

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

 Must comply with all USOC requirements.

REQUIRED SCORES:

 A total of one score for each must be submitted as follows for the current competition year: o One “Championship Team” test score; o One “Individual” test score;  The minimum score of any Individual or Championship test submitted must be 60% or higher;  Scores may be submitted from any horse/rider combination; o Submit one score of 60% or better from the current competition year;

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o Scores shall be achieved at the championship test of the rider’s Grade level or at any test which is above the rider’s Grade level. These levels are as follows: . For Grade I riders – USDF Walk Trot Test . For Grade II riders – USDF Walk Trot Test . For Grade III riders – First Level Test 4 or above . For Grade IV riders – Third Level Test 1 or above  All test scores (both rider and/or horse) must be achieved at USEF or FEI Para-Equestrian licensed competitions. FEI PE tests must be scored by a USEF “R” rated judge or above, or an FEI PE recognized judge.  REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

 Athletes are required to submit legible copies of all qualifying tests, clearly indicating the name of the judge and competition at which the scores were achieved to Laureen Johnson, USEF High Performance Director of Para- Equestrian Programs at the address below.

USEF

P.O. Box 83

Gladstone, NJ 07934

[email protected]

Attention: Laureen Johnson, High Performance Director of Para Equestrian & Vaulting Programs

USEF Fax: 908-719-7588

Once received by the USEF, the scores will be recorded and added to the USEF Para-Equestrian Ranking List. Scores will then be forwarded to Kallece Quinn at the USOC for consideration to the Veterans Assistance Program.

To learn more about the Para-Equestrian monthly assistance allowance, contact Kallie Quinn, Associate Director of the Emerging Sport Program at the U.S. Paralympics Sport Performance division at 719-866-2088 or [email protected].

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Para-Equestrian sport includes all equestrian disciplines practiced by people with physical disabilities. "Para" means, parallel to able-bodied equestrian sports. Many disabled athletes are able to hold their ground in competitions designed for the able-bodied, but Para-Equestrian opens the world of competition to riders and drivers with severe disabilities as well, allowing them to compete in a serious, focused environment. Many athletes who participate in Para-Equestrian are quite talented, and some are considered to be among the elite equestrians of the world, regardless of their physical condition.

In Para-Equestrian, each rider or driver is classified according to his or her functional ability. Para-Equestrians are assessed by trained physiotherapists and doctors who evaluate either muscle strength, coordination, or a combination thereof throughout the athlete’s body. The athlete is then given a functional profile that indicates the grade in which they can compete. The competition within each grade is judged on the functional skill of the rider or driver and not the level of disability.

The primary focus of the Para-Equestrian programs are to provide clinic and competition opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities. Many of our Para-Equestrian athletes were first introduced to horses through their therapeutic riding programs. The therapy program objectives are to introduce riding to improve balance, joint mobility, coordination, muscle tone and posture to ease symptoms of a wide variety of disabilities. It is a well known fact that horse’s gaits parallel that of the human.

What makes Para-Equestrian so special is that a person with a disability can compete in an exciting and well respected sport as an elite athlete and be judged on their abilities. Some of our best Para-Equestrians compete at the highest level, the Paralympics. The Paralympics, not to be confused with Special Olympics, is an elite sporting event for athletes with physical disabilities. Currently, the only Para-Equestrian sport recognized at the Paralympic level is Para-Dressage.

Para-Equestrian is the eight discipline within the United States Equestrian Federation. Para-Dressage is considered a High Performance Sport, therefore subject to the USEF selection criteria standards. All Para-Dressage riders must meet the strict show standards prior to being considered eligible to compete at a selection trial. After applying the selection criteria, considering the horse and rider combinations, their rankings and scores at the trials, a team is selected.

What does Olympic gold mean to athletes who have more to prove than just sporting ability? For starters, it takes a lot of money to support this sport. The most successful countries fund athletes’ living expenses through lotteries, heavy endowment funds, and corporate sponsorships so that they can concentrate on their job: riding for medals. In turn, medals won bring more funding, credibility, and respect.

Although the US Olympic Committee provides some funding to our Paralympic equestrians, it does not compare to that received by our competition. Our Paralympians’ stories are much different from those of their able-bodied equestrian peers because it takes more of a support team to handle the day-to-day horse care and training. Para-Equestrians generally cannot supplement their expenses by training or coaching, so most of our athletes have full-time careers apart from horses.

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