Para-Equestrian Canada to host Athlete Development and Classification

Ottawa, ON— Para-Equestrian Canada (PEC) is pleased to offer developing athletes the opportunity to attend a Para-dressage workshop in St. Lazare, Que. Oct. 3–4, 2009. Fionna Christensen, chair of the PEC Coaching Committee, will lead the clinic, and participants will be provided with the chance to train directly under the experienced coach.

Christensen will be providing instruction to riders on improving competitiveness, and will also share her knowledge about classification, competition and ranking procedures.

“These clinics bring together the Para community, and really highlight the competitive opportunities available to them,” said Sharon Buffitt, chair of the PEC Athlete Development Committee. “These clinics are wonderful teaching tools.”

In addition to the participating in, or auditing the clinic, aspiring will have an opportunity to attain a classification grade on the second day of the clinic. Marion Slatter-Blitstein, a physiotherapist and international FEI Para-equestrian classifier, will be the classifier at this event.

“Classification is the first step for riders that want to compete in Para-Equestrian competition,” added Sharon Buffitt.

The classification system uses five grades to rate a rider’s level of ability, and these grades are used in competition to level the playing fields. There are five grades of competitions in dressage, with Grade IA representing the more severely impaired riders, and Grade IV representing the least severely impaired riders. The competition within each grade is judged on the functional skill of the rider, and not the level of disability.

The clinic is free of charge and is open to riders, coaches and individuals interested in the sport of Para-dressage, though registrants must be a member of Para-Equestrian Canada. Those who ride in the clinic must have at least one year of independent riding experience, and be a minimum of 15 years of age. Riders bringing their own horses can rent stalls for a nominal daily charge.

Clinic space is limited, and all interested riders are encouraged to register with Equine Canada as soon as possible. For more information, please contact Para-Equestrian program coordinator Irena Seifert by e-mail at iseifert@equinecanada.ca, or at 1-866-282-8395 ext. 143.