Disabled riders and dressage?

[cluedo]

Hi

Am doing some research into horses suitable for para-riders. What sort of horses would you look for if you were aiming at International compeitions -Grade 1 and above. How long did it take for the horse to get used to the rider and the new way of training? Whilst getting used to the new training how did they behave when learning?

Sorry for all the questions, but thanks for any help.

 

[spitchwick]

I have participated at RDA at the dressage national champs, and I would say a horse/pony with the right temperament, very difficult to quantify, but when you find them you certainly know. Of course for international standard, they have to attain a certain level as well but it is very much a team effort of horse and rider.

 

[ChristineCorp]

I'm the mother of a seasoned disabled rider who's done world championships and nationals many times over. My tips would be that you a) need a horse that's not too big for you to keep together and b) one that's been out competing in anything, traffic proof and sound, and you start from there. Youngsters can be brill but we find the problem is that they miss out on 'normal' life and you can have a few problems. It's much better if they've had a couple of year's pulling about and doing everything and then they're really ready to adapt.

Horses nearly always adapt to tiny children or disabled riders very well. They are wonderful at this. As for the 'special' schooling, there isn't any but the system used is classically based and even very basic schooling sessions use many ,many transitions, reducing circles and lateral work. It's like taking the training from grand prix level and using it at grass roots, that's the only way I can describe it. Most people wouldn't learn the movements until they were elementary level and above, disabled riders start at medium level workload even if it's only the walk trot levels. Most people don't realise how high the standard is.

Obviously for the very few who make it the horses required for paralympic competition are of exceptional quality but who the heck has the money to pay the fancy prices? I hear that people are paying £30,000 these days.!

You can always pm me if you want more info.