As Paris Olympics 2024 Draws Near, Canada Unveils Equestrian Para Dressage Squad

The National Team Program (NTP), developed by Equestrian Canada, is a strategic framework. It enables Canadian athletes to achieve podium success in global competition. In line with high-performance strategies, in conjunction with Sport Canada and the Athlete Assistance Program (AAP), the NTP identifies athletes with potential through various stages along their path, from the recruiting stage to the elite level within LTED.

As the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games draw nearer, Equestrian Canada (EC) has recently announced their anticipated Para Dressage squads for 2024. From September 3rd to 7th, 2024, these carefully selected teams will demonstrate Canada’s commitment and ability within the para-equestrian community.

Para-Dressage roster unveiling for the 2024 National Team Program

As the Para Dressage roster for the 2024 National Team Program is unveiled, it becomes evident how meticulously athletes have been chosen based on their average scores in their respective grades. The roster is divided into three squads: The National Squad, the Development Squad, and the Talent ID Squad—comprising three groups of riders showcasing remarkable abilities in their equestrian pursuits. Notable names from the national squad include Roberta Sheffield riding Delilah and Fairuza, as well as Jody Schloss with El Colorado and Lieutenant Lobin.

Meanwhile, the Development Squad comprises riders like Lauren Barwick with Sandrino, Laura Hall steering Myrtha, and Eleonore Elstone guiding Linden Ein, showcasing remarkable skills across Grade III to Grade V, with scores ranging between 67.667 and 66.936.

Emerging equestrian talents in the Talent ID Squad

The Talent ID Squad introduces a diverse array of budding riders with immense potential, reflecting EC’s commitment to identifying and nurturing new talent within Para Dressage. Austen Burns atop Happy Feet leads the pack with an exceptional Grade I score of 76.766, followed by Jennifer Angus steering Day-Lights Soulmate in Grade II with a score of 70.955. Sharon Buffitt astride L’Etoile and Sarah Cummings with Beaujolais, both in Grade III, showcase promising average scores of 70.667 and 70.042, respectively. The list extends to include talents like Calla Gross, Kyla Sorensen, Marley Crosby, Joelle Trudeau, Wanda Jamieson, Natasha James, Jennifer Angus, and Tamara Taylor across Grade IV and Grade V categories, highlighting the depth of emerging talent within the Talent ID Squad.

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EC’s meticulous selection process and the unveiling of these squads signify a promising outlook for Para Dressage in Canada, celebrating both seasoned expertise and the burgeoning potential of new talent within the sport.

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