September 2, 2010--This spring, para-equestrians were treated to a dressage clinic with Olympian Debbie McDonald during the Dressage Affaire at the Del Mar Horse Park in Del Mar, CA. It was a wonderful opportunity for riders that are preparing for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

For McDonald, the clinic proved to be a learning experience not only for the participants but for herself as well. "I have never had a rider that was paralyzed from the neck down. At first I was not sure exactly on how to work on each of the riders, but I developed a strategy to work on controlling the body. These exercises included sitting up taller, increase stretching, and many other techniques to increase their strength. I worked with the para-equestrians just as I would school my own riders."

During the one-day clinic--also open to able-bodied riders--participants had a chance to demonstrate their abilities either on their own or borrowed horses. It acted as a skill-building clinic along with preparation for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

McDonald said, "This was the second time I worked with para-equestrians. I found each one of them to be so refreshing and inspiring. I love their enthusiasm!"

Many of the para-equestrian programs are still in their infancy. Clinics like the one McDonald conducted for these riders are helping to increase the knowledge and popularity of the sport. 

"It is wonderful to see the sharing between the para-equestrians and the able bodied riders," says McDonald. "The sport is growing so much and is moving in the right direction. If it keeps growing as it has I would say that in 2012 they will be in good contention for a medal for the United States."

As with each of the equestrian disciplines, support furthers the development of the sport. "We have to keep working to get that for them," says McDonald.

The United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA) would like to thank everyone who was involved in preparing this clinic and Debbie McDonald, who conducted the clinic. McDonald and the USPEA applaud the Shea Center in San Juan Capistrano, CA, a therapeutic riding center where para-equestrian riders can begin their journeys as equestrians.

About the United States Para-Equestrian Association:

The USPEA includes every equestrian discipline that is practiced by athletes with physical disabilities. Each rider or driver competes under the eighth discipline, the para-equestrian discipline of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). This year, at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, the U.S. para dressage team will compete as an FEI sport for the first time.

The USPEA is a recognized affiliate of the USEF. It provides programs, clinics and competition opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities. Riders compete under USEF rules during their national competitions and FEI rules during international competition. Many of the athletes compete at the highest level of their sport.

For more information about the USPEA or for donation opportunities, please contact President Hope Hand, email Wheeler966@aol.com or call 610-356-6481.

Online information about the USPEA.