PARA Equestrian Ireland, in conjunction with Dressage Ireland, held its annual dressage test riding training camp for both able-bodied and para riders at Castle Irvine for its second year running from September 6 to 8.
Riders were offered two training sessions with either Clive Milkens, International para coach and able-bodied coach or Deborah Pijpers, Irish High Performance Para Dressage Squad coach, as well as two test riding sessions with Sarah Rodgers, 5* FEI para dressage and BD list 2a dressage judge and a physio/ biomechanical session with Clare Maria Campbell (Clare-Maria Campbell Physiotherapy).
Coaches Clive Milkins said: “The combination of para and able-bodied riders demonstrates an exciting collaboration for the future of dressage in Ireland.”
Deborah Pijpers said: “For me as a coach, it was interesting to be able to discuss training tests and biomechanics with other professionals that work with the same riders.”
Deborah also added that, as team coach for Para Equestrian Ireland, she had the opportunity to see some promising potentials for the future. Watch this space!
There was an evening presentation by Sarah on ‘What the Judges are looking for’, which resulted in a very lively Q and A session.
Rider feedback has been very positive and Para Equestrian Ireland has some good ideas for the extension of the camp next year.
Thanks go to all the staff at Castle Irvine, especially Rodney and Suzie, who worked so hard to ensure a magical experience for everyone.
This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access.
