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FEI Course for Para-Equestrian Trainers
Friday, March 28th, 2008
A three day course specifically for Para-Equestrian Trainers has recently been held in the Belgian town of Wergem. The course attracted attendees from more than ten European countries and some attendees from as far afield as South Africa and Argentina. As a special case the FEI Development Fund was able to support the Venezuelan Trainer, Maritza Trujllio (VEN), to make the long trip from South America to Belgium in order for her to gain further knowledge and help the expansion of the Para-Equestrian Discipline within her home country.
The highly successful course had been organised by Belgian Trainer Anne d’Ieteren (BEL) at a local Riding School with ideal access to excellent onsite facilities including lecture rooms, manages, and even some willing local Para-Equestrian riders enabling practical sessions for the Trainers.
The course had several different speakers throughout the three days of tuition. Anne Prain (FRA), International Judge, Clive Milkins (GBR), Para-Equestrian Trainer, and Jane Goldsmith (GBR), International Judge and Trainer, commenced the weekend with an in depth study of the requirements for Grade I and Grade II Tests. Video Analysis was followed by an open discussion where attendees were encouraged to ask questions and interact with the speaker Anne Prain (FRA), to gain a thorough understanding of the Judges’ viewpoints. Clive Milkins (GBR) and Jane Goldsmith (GBR) then led the more practical sessions focusing on the training of the walk and trot, and of the progression of the Para-Equestrian Athletes.
Day two saw further sessions for the Course attendees to further their knowledge. Mariette Withages (BEL), Chairman of FEI Dressage, led the initial sessions and focused on the presentation of the Kür. Following an informative talk the session moved onto a practical session covering all Grades. With the help of some local riders, the candidates were able to practice scoring tests, enabling them to understand the best way for their riders to gain the highest scores possible. Compensating Aids was the subject for the evening’s lecture presented by Classifier Daniel Bens (BEL). The lecture was followed by a lively discussion on the subject where attendees were able to interact and share their knowledge with each other.
Dr. Frédéric Eperjessy (BEL) started the final day with an informative session on the Veterinary aspects of Para-Equestrian. Included in his session was instruction on a good Trot-Up, information on Passport issues and prohibited substances.
The final sessions of the weekend were led by Jane Goldsmith (GBR) and Clive Milkins (GBR) along with five Para-Equestrian Riders. These sessions really emphasised the importance of good training, including lungeing as well as riding. Highlighting the need for correct basics before the progression of horse and rider can take place.
All reviews have been hugely complimentary towards the organisation, hospitality and generosity of the event. The opportunity given to these participants has been invaluable, and the experience far reaching. Not only has this directly aided the attendees but also the information and instruction received at this course will enable the Para-Equestrian Athletes World Wide to benefit from the expert tuition over this weekend.
Confirmation of Para-Equestrian Slots for the 2008 Paralympic Games
The FEI has confirmed that all National Paralympic Committees that have earned slots for the Paralympic Games have now been contacted via email.
The usage of the qualification slots has to be confirmed in writing using the Confirmation Form by 4 April at the latest. National Paralympic Committees that have not replied by this date will lose their qualification slots which will then be reallocated by the FEI.
