New competition and classification to mean dressage will be for all

The new partnerships with British Dressage will provide opportunities for riders with intellectual disabilities

- BECKY MURRAY

A NEW competition and classification pathway for riders with intellectual disabilities will "ensure dressage is inclusive and accessible to all".

British Dressage (BD) has launched an initiative with Virtus and Sport Excel UK, organisations that promote sport for athletes with intellectual impairments, to create new opportunities.

"The current para classification system focuses primarily on physical and visual impairments, and we want to ensure that there are equal opportunities available for those who have intellectual challenges to overcome too," said a BD spokesman.

To compete under Virtus, riders must undergo a classification and eligibility application, led by Sport Excel UK. The categories are; II1) athletes with an intellectual disability, II2) athletes with an intellectual disability and significant additional impairment, and II3) athletes with autism.