Equipment

Once a rider has been internationally classified they receive an FEI Para Equestrian International Classification Identity Card (IPEC ID Card) describing their profile number, Grade and a list of compensating aids they are allowed to use in competition. This is the list of compensating aids I use.

Compensating Aids:

Voice

Whips (Easy Cue Whip can be found http://www.equisapiens.co.uk)

Small saddle adaptation (leather handle)

Seat saver on saddle (Prolite gel)

Velcro straps from girth to stirrup (Equilibrium)

Bands (to keep feet in stirrups)

Salute with head only

Dispensation Certificate: As a disabled rider I also compete in able-bodied competitions, competing under British Dressage rules, I have a dispensation certificate, which is a signed form from British Dressage that states certain allowances that can be made in order for me to compete on level terms with able-bodied riders. (These are the same compensating aids described above.)

I also had a more important issue....how to get on my horse at competitions! Here is an article I wrote and had published in the Spinal Injuries Scotland magazine.

http://www.angelika-trabert.de/images/stories/horseboxlift.pdf - Horseboxlift!

I also have to have a platform to swing my legs on so that I am level with the horse, I use a small builder's platform which is the same height as Murphy. ''C'mon Murph!!''

The latest piece of equipment is to assist me in getting in to my Horsebox, it gets me in to the cab and living area,it also gets me on to my 'scaffold' (as above) and lets me mount Murphy.