

Equestrian at the Games
Paralympic Equestrian became a Paralympic sport at the Atlanta 1996 Games. Only 16 countries took part in the inaugural competition and it was vital that at least 24 teams participated in Sydney 2000 to allow Para-Equestrian Dressage to remain in the Games. Thirty-four teams competed at Sydney, rising to 38 at Athens 2004, and the sport is now firmly established on the Paralympic programme. The Athens 2004 Games were the first at which competitors were allowed to ride their own horses. The change has brought Para-Equestrian Dressage closer to Olympic Dressage, where riders also form a partnership with a horse they ride and train consistently.
Venue: Greenwich Park
Dates: Thursday 30 August – Tuesday 4 September
Gold medals up for grabs: 11
Athletes: 78
Bucks Athletes to follow
Anna Gill
Sophie Christiansen
Where can I try Paralympic Equestrian?
Parasport