About PE Sport

What is Para-Equestrian sport?

Equestrian sport can represent an opportunity for freedom and movement to people with disabilities. It can also be a rejuvenating component in a therapeutic program. With various degrees of assistance and support, horse sport can be a reality for many people, whether a child with cerebral palsy or an adult with paralysis. People with disabilities can learn to ride a horse, compete alongside their peers and progress to high level competitions like the Paralympics or the World Equestrian Games. Challenges can be overcome and the experience is often rewarding. 

At the grassroots level, Para-Equestrian sport includes all equestrian disciplines practiced by people with disabilities. Many disabled athletes are capable of competing in able-bodied Equine Canada competitions, which often involves the use of specialized supportive tack or compensatory aids. The Para-Equestrian disciplines are able to provide an environment for severely disabled riders to engage in serious competition, though the international stream focuses only on Para-Dressage.

Therapeutic Riding

Many Para-Equestrian athletes are introduced to horses through therapeutic riding programs. Used in therapy, equestrian activities can help improve balance, joint mobility, coordination, muscle tone and posture, all of which can ease the symptoms of many disabilities. Therapy is aided by the fact that a horse’s gait is similar to that of a human’s.

Competitive sport: Para-Dressage

While Para-Equestrian can serve purely a therapeutic purpose, it can also act as a launching pad to competitive sport. Some of Canada’s most elite Para-Equestrian athletes travel to international events several times a year, and have had remarkable success at the Paralympic Games. Currently, the only Para-Equestrian sport recognized at the Paralympic level is Para-Dressage.

Para-Equestrian is the eighth discipline acknowledged by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports, or the FEI. Equine Canada considers Para-Dressage a high performance sport, and therefore applies the EC selection criteria in forming the national and development teams.

Classification Cards

A rider with a physical disability that is unable to ride in accordance with the rules should apply for a classification card through Equine Canada. The card notes the rider’s classification, grade and approved equipment. Riders need to present the classification card to the appropriate officials at a competition. EC will issue the card in conjunction with the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA).

Horse Sport for All - Brochure & Presentation