“Regardless of Your Disability”: Equestrian Redefines Para Dressage With Unique Perspectives

The equestrian world is a myriad of disciplines that beckon riders and enthusiasts alike, ranging from jumping, vaulting, dressage, endurance, para-equestrian, para-dressage, and beyond. In this vast multiverse, the sport of para-dressage has been making waves since the Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced back in 2023 that para-equestrian, specifically para-dressage, will be part of the Paralympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.

Para-dressage involves athletes with physical impairments competing in equestrian events, following the same basic rules as regular, able-bodied dressage. And now, in a wonderful message, a leading equestrian has given a special insight into this world.

A peek behind the curtain into para-dressage equestrian

In an Instagram post by USA Dressage and US Equestrian, the federations shared a heartwarming yet informative message to equestrian fans. The snippet featured the iconic Grade V para-equestrian athlete Cynthia Screnci, who gave a unique insight into para-dressage as a sport. She shared, “I think it’s important to know that para-dressage does not stand for paralyzed, it stands for parallel,” conveying how USA Para Dressage runs parallel to the experiences of all able-bodied riders within the sport.

She highlighted the inclusivity of the program, which allows anyone to step into it, regardless of whether they are an international or even a national competitive athlete. The snippet ended with a special note where Cynthia Screnci shared, “If you want the opportunity to be in a program you know with wonderful people and superior athletes, regardless of your disability, this is the place to be.” This special message by the icon comes just days after she was given a huge honor in the sport.

Cynthia Screnci honored by the USEF

Cynthia Screnci started her para-dressage journey in 2019 and has been making waves since. In December 2023, she was the sole nominee for the 2023 USEF Horse of the Year and Equestrian of the Year Awards in the dressage category. She was nominated for the prestigious Becky Grand Hart Trophy, which is given to international-level non-Olympic athletes. She and her horse, Sir Chipoli, had an amazing 2023 season, winning eight Grade V competitions at the Global Dressage Festival.

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They also played a crucial role in the U.S. Para-Dressage Team’s victory at the AGDF Week Nine CPEDI3*. Cynthia’s success continued with top finishes in Grade V classes with Sir Chipoli in the spring. Then, in January 2024, at the 2023 USEF Horse of the Year Awards Dinner, she was honored with the prestigious Becky Grand Hart Trophy. As the 2024 season progresses, her wonderful insights have shed a massive spotlight on the para-dressage equestrian discipline.

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