Lexington, Ky. - The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) and the United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA) are excited to announce the first USEF/USPEA International Para-Equestrian Dressage Centers of Excellence (COE). These regional hubs of excellence will attract new riders to the sport of para-equestrian dressage. Additionally, they will work in partnership with the USEF high performance programs to develop athletes to a level where they can represent the U.S. in international competition and at the Paralympic Games and ultimately win medals.

The USEF Selection Committee carefully scrutinized each application and upheld the highest standards when bestowing the prestigious COE title to the following facilities:

Carlisle Academy Integrative Equine Therapy & Sports – Lyman, Maine
Contact:  Sarah Armentrout, [email protected]

North Texas Equestrian Center (NTEC) – Wylie, Texas
Contact:  Kai Handt, [email protected]

Pine Knoll Farm – Lexington, Ky. 
Contact:  Gillian Vallis, [email protected]

Ride On Therapeutic Riding Center – Chatsworth, Calif.
Contact: Megan McQueeney, [email protected]

Additional COE applicants are currently being evaluated and will be announced shortly. 

COEs will play a vital role in attracting dressage trainers to the sport and helping them understand the aids and methods of training the disabled athletes in para-dressage.  The COEs will be the primary hosts of USEF para-dressage high performance programs and educational symposiums. In addition, COEs will aim to further develop their links with the therapeutic riding community, thus exposing interested athletes to competition opportunities.

Each COE is unique in the structure of their para-dressage programs and may offer opportunities independent of other COEs. The USEF/USPEA is committed to working with each COE to build plans that complement their individual strengths and opportunities. 

For more information on the COE programs, please contact USEF Director of Para Equestrian, Laureen Johnson at [email protected], or 908-326-1155. 

The USPEA is the USEF’s Recognized Affiliate for all para-equestrian disciplines and exists to help develop, promote, and support athletes wishing to participate in the para-equestrian sport.  For more information on getting started with para-equestrian please visit www.uspea.org or contact USPEA President, Hope Hand at [email protected]. 

The USEF International High Performance Programs are generously supported by the USET Foundation, USOC, and USEF Sponsors and Members.