Para-Equestrian Dressage Athlete Mary Jordan Leaves Lasting Impression at Official USA Olympic Day

Written by Lindsay Yosay McCall

Saco, Maine – July 22, 2012 – As the London Olympics/Paralympics approach athletes have been promoting and creating awareness of this spectacular event. On June 29, 2012, the Official USA Olympic Day occurred where hundreds of Olympians and Paralympians participated around the country in interactive and informative public speaking events. Created by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC), there were more than 700 events taking place across the United States including multiple locations in Maine. U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage rider Mary Jordan of Wells, Maine traveled to Saco, Maine where over 400 campers were awaiting her arrival.

As Jordan described and showcased Olympic and Paralympic athletes around the world, the previously hot and tired campers became captivated by Jordan. “The children were fascinated when they saw a Paralympic Swimmer without legs winning the gold for their country. They asked so many wonderful questions and two hours flew by as if it were 20 minutes,” noted Jordan.

During Jordan’s presentation she spoke about many topics including personal and family values, sportsmanship, goal making, how each child may become involved in a sport, and the value of perseverance. She introduced what makes her a Para-Equestrian athlete and showcased a video of her training for her Dressage Freestyle with her horse prior to the Paralympic Selection Trials. Jordan explained, “As an alternate for the United States Para-Equestrian Team, perseverance is a subject I work towards every day.  I explained to the campers that as an alternate you don’t give up your ideals, you keep training, you keep working, you move forward, you stick it out because if I get called to fulfill the team’s need I want to be ready.”

As an experienced public speaker who travels the country, Jordan enjoyed the unique impact the Paralympic sport had on these children. “This was such a powerful experience and I would do it again in a heartbeat,” smiled Jordan. “I truly enjoyed informing these young campers about the Olympic and specifically Paralympic sports. I want to thank the USOC, Saco Parks & Recreation, and everyone involved who was instrumental in creating this event. GO TEAM USA!”

For more information about the United States Olympic or Paralympic Teams please visit http://www.teamusa.org

For more information about the London Paralympics please visit http://www.london2012.com

All logos and trademarks in this press release are copyright of their respective owners. All references to London 2012 Paralympics, Olympics, or London 2012 are copyright the 2012 London Olympic Games Organizing Committee. All references to Team USA are copyright the United States Olympic Committee.

Mary Jordan at 2012 Olympic Day Photo Courtesy Saco Parks & Recreation