On Sunday 21st June, the International Riding School at Horseshoe Point held two dressage competitions. In the morning for disabled riders, and in the afternoon for able bodied beginners.
Morning Session: Special Needs Competition
Many disabled people benefit from riding, some from the therapy it gives, others by actually learning to ride. The benefits can be enormous and wide-ranging. They include improvements to balance, co-ordination, muscle tone, concentration, co-operation and behavior. Dressage tests consist of a series of circles, turns and transitions. For a person with limited physical ability, who has mastered the basic skills of halt, walk and steering, dressage provides a continuing challenge and the opportunity to compete against others.
Jasmine Crystal Sanders, winner of the Walk test, riding Sabrina.
The Walk Test is led on a short lead rope, particularly for riders with Cerebral Palsy who need two sidewalkers. This lasts for 8 minutes consisting of movements which must be ridden correctly in shape and size.
The Walk/Trot Test moves the rider up to another level where some sitting or rising trot will be performed. Marks are out of 10 per movement within the dressage test. These tests encourage memory, following instructions, co-ordination, basic riding skills and a huge feeling of achievement.
Each of our riders is awarded a rosette for competing and, for the rider with the most marks in each category, a medal is awarded.
Walk Test Winner: Riz Anjemeena Reyes
Walk & Trot Test Winner: Ton Gan Segkhoonthod Nathalang
Afternoon Session: Able Bodied Beginners
Our young Able Bodied riders competed along with their instructor, either on a long lead rope, or off to help build confidence. For these young riders it was their first dressage competition and many hours of practice over the weeks leading up to the competition paid off.
Walk Test Winner: Jasmine Crystal Sanders
Walk & Trot Test Winner: Palika Gulati
We would like to thank our sponsors EA Aviation Co Ltd, and Horseshoe Point.
If you would like to find out more about volunteering with our special needs programme, on either a Tuesday or Thursday morning 10.00am – 12.00, please contact Sandra on 0868483684.
Palika Gulati, winner of the Walk & Trot test, with Wina her competition pony.
Ton Gan Segkhoonthod Nathalang, winner of the Walk & Trot test.
Riz Ajemeena Reyes, winner of the Walk Test with judge Dr Ellen Ryan.
