The first World Para-Equestrian Dressage Championships under the governance of the FEI are looming in the not so distant foreground. These not only mark a first for the FEI, but also a first in the past 21 years for Great Britain to be hosting a World Championship. This important event will take place at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire, and no less than 142 competitors spanning 22 nations will be competing for the coveted title. The numbers alone already make this the largest World Para-Equestrian Dressage Championship ever.

Indeed, all the top para-equestrian dressage riders will be present, including Athens Paralympic Gold Medalists’ Lee Pearson and Debbie Criddle (Great Britain), Irene Slaettengren (Sweden), and Ann Cathrin Lubbe (Norway). A very warm welcome is also extended to riders from China, Singapore and the Virgin Islands who are competing in the Championships for the first time ever. To see the full list of entries, please refer to the official website at www.hartpury.ac.uk/wpdc/entries/index.htm.

To read more about the entries from the United States, visit www.usef.org/_IFrames/newsDisplay/viewPR.aspx?id=2100.

Three days of outstanding equestrian sport is guaranteed, with riders competing to become World Champions and looking to earn their qualifying place in next year’s Paralympic Games to be held in Hong Kong. An international able-bodied dressage (CDI***), culminating in two gala evening’s on Friday, July 20, and Saturday, July 21, to include a grand prix and grand prix special, will add to the spectacular occasion.

The championships will open and close in true style, with the Bristol-based Circo Media providing a circus dimension to the opening ceremony parade, echoing the theme used to open the World Championships for Disabled Riders held at Hartpury in 1994. Highlights of the closing ceremony will include the illustrious Mini Marvels® Team and a fast moving performance by the world famous Metropolitan Police Activity Ride, who will demonstrate the inch-perfect timing, total commitment, professionalism and complete trust that is required as horses literally jump through fire!

A fervent defender of the para-equestrian movement, FEI President HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein will be present to award Sunday’s medals and officially close the championships.

For further information on the FEI World Para-Equestrian Dressage Championships, please visit www.hartpury.ac.uk/wpdc/entries/index.htm.