Four New National Classifiers for Para Dressage

Equestrian Sport (Para-Dressage and Para-Driving) in Canada through providing structured, focused, and highly competitive opportunities for athletes with a variety of impairments.

Para-equestrian classification is a graded system with five eligible classifications for athletes outlined by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). There are five classes of competitions, with Grade I representing the more severely impaired riders, and Grade V representing the least impaired riders. Many Para-equestrian athletes also compete alongside able-bodied riders in competitions.

An EC National Classifier is a person authorized by EC to conduct evaluations for Para-Dressage athletes who are ready to compete at EC Silver and Gold competitions. By providing assessment, classifiers are essential in supporting these athletes and their coaches by identifying which grade the athlete can compete and use the compensating (adaptive) aids that are allowed for their profile based on their assessment.

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Classifiers assesses athletes in accordance with the methods and standards of the FEI, as outlined in the FEI Classification Manual and play an integral role in an athlete’s journey from the grassroots to representing Canada at the international level.

Becoming a classifier is an opportunity to give back to the community, enhance the life of a person with a physical or visual impairment, and grow both professionally and personally. Up until now there were only five classifiers in Canada. With four new candidates ready to take on the role it is an exciting time for the growth of Para-Dressage in Canada.

EC is pleased to welcome Amberlee Brownlie, Wendy Brownlie, Valerie Caron and Heather Owchar as the newest EC National Para-Dressage Classifiers.

Amberlee Brownlie of Brandon, MB, is a registered physiotherapist and holds a Master of Science Degree in Physical Therapy from Queen’s University. Brownlie is currently practicing physiotherapy at Sports and injury clinic. She is also working in private practice in Manitoba and is a member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Brownlie enjoys equestrian competition, yoga, running and cycling during her free time.

Wendy Brownlie of Brandon, MB, has been involved with physiotherapy for over 35 years, since graduating from the University of Manitoba with a bachelor and diploma in physical therapy. Brownlie’s extensive experience involves being a part of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association since 1978 and partaking in many training, workshops and seminars throughout her professional career. Brownlie’s practices at private clinics doing locum and enjoys being semi retired.

Valerie Caron of Saskatoon, SK, is a licensed physiotherapist that has been practicing in Saskatchewan for the past six years. Caron is a fully bilingual. She has completed a major in Biology and minor in Psychology, a master’s in physical therapy and is currently a candidate for a Doctor in Philosophy from the University of Saskatchewan, set to graduate in 2024. She also has experience teaching, assessing and examining at the graduate level.

Heather Owchar of Saskatoon, SK, is a licensed physiotherapist that has been practicing in Saskatchewan. Owchar has performed initial physical therapy assessments, designed and implemented treatment plans in a variety of settings for patients with and without disabilities. Owchar has extensive education and experience with patients, being involved in physical therapy for over 15 years. She has gained relevant experience in hospitals in Nunavut and Alberta throughout her career.

EC National Classifiers can become International Classifiers, who are then invited to competitions all around the world, including the Paralympic Games and FEI World Championships. The four new para-dressage classifiers join five other EC National Classifiers:

Sue Foell (who also holds FEI Level 2 Classifier status) – Sharon, ON
Robyn Allen(who also holds FEI Trainee Classifier status) – Thornbury, ON
Kim Anderson – Saanichton, BC
Mireille Bilodeau – Gatineau, QC
Taylor Campbell – Toronto, ON

For more information on Para-Dressage Classification, visit here. Those interested in becoming an EC National Classifier are encouraged to contact Jamie-Ann Goodfellow, Program Coordinator, Para-Dressage by email at jgoodfellow@equestrian.ca or by phone at 343-308-5323.