Lyman, Maine – April 8, 2015 –  Carlisle Academy in Lyman, Maine, a Premier Accredited PATH Center and national leader in grassroots development for para-equestrian sports, is coordinating two Para-Equestrian Pipeline Training Camps scheduled May 26-30, and August 25-29, 2015. Expert international para-equestrian clinicians, seasoned medalists, therapists, and coaches with their riders will congregate for training and education in this growing sport. The primary focus will be on para-dressage but demonstrations and information will be available for emerging para-equestrian disciplines such as para-driving and para-reining. The United States Equestrian Federation and United States Para-Equestrian Association are in support of these efforts.

Clinicians include Kai Handt (USEF Chef D’ Equipe in Para-Dressage) and Clive Milkins

U.S. Chef d’ Equipe Kai Handt works with Paralympic Dressage Trainer Wes Dunham. Photo by Lindsay Y. McCall

(International Para-Dressage coach from the UK). Both will teach riders and coaches in both camps. In the May camp, Diane Kastama will visit for a Para-Driving demonstration day. Kastama is a talented Para-Driver and international medal winning equestrian. In August, Hanneke Gerritsen (FEI 5* Para-Dressage judge) will be attending the camp. In the final day of the August camp, a para-reining demonstration is scheduled.

President of the USPEA, Hope Hand noted, “The Carlisle Training Camps provide our developing athletes the opportunity to experience what it takes to get ready for the competition arena. USPEA and USEF recommend and support Carlisle’s progressive  program tracks that encompasses all aspects of the physical and mental components in becoming successful in reaching one’s equestrian goals. For the athlete or the professional that wants to learn more about the equestrian para sports or become a member of our training and coaching staff, Carlisle along with the USPEA and the USEF have been developing hands on workshops that address areas such as: training tips, adaptive equipment needs and type of horses that are suitable for each grade. These camps are a wonderful opportunity for the Para Equestrian enthusiasts to learn from the experts.”

Included in the Workshop and Lecture portion of the camps are: adaptive equipment/compensating aids; classification lecture/ability for national classification; para-dressage introduction & rules; video and discussion review of current para-dressage tests; riding mock tests with clinician/judges feedback; and a coaches’ forum.

The focus in these camps is on the grassroots pipeline programs therefore plans are in the works for a panel of past/current FEI competitors who will speak about the competition pathway for emerging athletes, as well as the growing options today with regional and national competitions.  A kick-off dinner with an inspirational keynote will begin each camp and as always there will be plenty of opportunity for learning and fellowship.

More detailed information on registration, tuition, and schedule will be available soon. Sarah Armentrout, Head of School at Carlisle Academy, noted, “We are excited to help broaden the base of para-equestrians in the United States and create more high-quality sport opportunities for riders with disabilities.”

For more information please contact Carlisle Academy Head of School, Sarah Armentrout at 207-985-0374, or sarmentrout@carlisleacademymaine.com. Eligibility requirements and more information on the various para-equestrian disciplines can be found at the United States Para Equestrian Association (www.uspea.org), the United States Equestrian Federation (www.usef.org), and the FÉDÉRATION EQUESTRE INTERNATIONALE (www.FEI.org).

Hanneke Gerritsen (FEI 5* Para-Dressage judge) works with Elle Wooley. Photo by Lindsay Y. McCall

The USPEA is a network of riders, judges, national federation members, and equestrian enthusiasts.  The association gives athletes the ability to get involved and expand their knowledge and experience in the Para-Equestrian sport. The USPEA encourages Para-athletes to participate in all disciplines under the Para-Equestrian umbrella.

The USPEA is a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) which serves as the National Governing Body for the equestrian sport.  This relationship between the USPEA and USEF is to encourage Para-Equestrian competitors, leisure riders, coaches, fans and enthusiasts to network and get involved with the entire equestrian sport.

Ultimately the goal of the USPEA is to foster growth in the Para-Equestrian discipline.  From growth in the number of participants to growth as a team, and growth in the experience and knowledge of all involved.  From local horse shows to international Paralympic Games, the USPEA provides Para-Equestrians the knowledge and resources needed to succeed.  The USPEA connects with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), USA Reining, and USEF which provide Para-Equestrians the top equestrian resources.

In June 2010, the USPEA earned its 501 (c)(3) status which has encouraged supporters to help supply funding to the Para-Equestrian Team as a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation(USEF). 

For more information about the USPEA please visit www.USPEA.org or contact USPEA President: Hope Hand by e-mail: hope@uspea.org or by phone: (610)356-6481.