Through U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage, horses are helping to change the game of life for driven, competitive, and physically disabled athletes. Not only does this traditional sport instill confidence and discipline, but it also helps those who can’t use their legs to reach new heights on all levels. This especially hits home for Becca Hart, a U.S. Paralympian, and Para-Equestrian who says that the active sport has basically allowed her to maintain her ability to walk, and without it, she would be in a wheelchair.
“I was angry. I wanted to be active. I wanted to be competitive and horses allowed me to do that,” explained Hart, in a U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage video posted on the Deloitte U.S. Facebook page. “I sat on a horse and all of a sudden I had that freedom. I wasn’t the disabled kid anymore. The horses became my legs and I was able to function like everyone else.”
Whether it’s physical or mental hurdles, many horses have helped those in need find their ways, such as a teen who conquers depression with a calming connection to horses and a therapy program that helps recovering veterans and racehorses. The para-equestrian sport, which also includes driving and vaulting, also provides educational and competitive opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities.
“What Para-Dressage gives people is an opportunity to compete on equal terms, but show that they are every bit as talented as their able-bodied counterparts,” added Will Connell, United States Equestrian Federation’s Director of Sport. While adhering to all levels of athleticism, the para-equestrian sport has evolved into an internationally recognized event and para-dressage is held as part of the World Equestrian Games and at the Paralympics, which take place every four years immediately following the Olympic Games and at the same venue, according to the United States Para-Equestrian Association.
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