2004 ATHENS PARALYMPIC GAMES TEAM USA - Info, News and Results

The NATIONAL DISABILITY SPORTS ALLIANCE is the coordinating agency in the United States for equestrian sport for riders with a disability.  Historically, NDSA has been responsible for the selection and administration of all international teams, including World Championships and Paralympic Games.  As of December 1st, 2003 the U.S. Equestrian Federation has been made responsible for those functions.  NDSA Equestrian and U.S. Equestrian are working together to ensure smooth transition of these responsibilities, and to continue to provide service and opportunities for riders with disabilities.  In January of 2005, NDSA Equestrian plans to present the USEF with the proposal to become the recognized national affiliate for riders with a disability. As the national affiliate for USEF, NDSA EQUESTRIAN will provide national and international competition opportunities and training for riders with physical disabilities who wish to be competitive, regardless of their functional level or physical disability.  Riders are classified by an international system that evaluates functional ability of the rider and allows them to be competitive against those of similar disabilities.  There are four classes of riders, ranging from those with disabilities that allow them to compete at the walk only, to those that ride tests similar to USA Equestrian's third or fourth level tests. The primary goal of NDSA EQUESTRIAN is to ensure the competitive success of riders with disabilities on a national and international level by providing training, competition and advocacy.  Riders of all levels may participate in future NDSA sponsored training clinics and forums, and will be provided with competitive opportunities both in this country and abroad.  Training and certification is provided for coaches, judges and other officials.  NDSA Equestrian also works closely with USA Equestrian, USET and USDF to provide opportunities and education for disabled riders within the "able-bodied" community. THERE ARE MANY COMMITTEES AND ORGANIZATIONS THAT SERVE RIDERS WITH A DISABILITY - YOUR HELP IS NEEDED TO PROVIDE MUCH NEEDED EXPERTISE AND SERVICES.  CONTACT US FOR A REFERRAL TO WHERE YOUR INTEREST AND EXPERTISE CAN BE PUT TO USE, OR WATCH HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AS IT BECOMES AVAILABLE.

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