Notes:Para-Equestrian Classifier Course
May 29-May 31, 2024
OTTAWA, ON CAN– OTTAWA DRESSAGE FESTIVAL
Para-Equestrian sport provides athletes with a physical and visual impairment the opportunity to compete against other Athletes with similar abilities. Athletes are classified and given a “Grade” based on their functional ability, and are judged on their riding skill against other Athletes of the same Grade. There are five grades of competitions in para-dressage, with Grade I representing the more severely impaired Athletes, and Grade V representing the least severely impaired Athletes.
An Equestrian Canada (EC) Para-Equestrian Classifier is a person authorized by EC to conduct evaluations for athletes who are ready to compete at Equestrian Canada Dressage Silver and Gold Level competitions. Classifier execute the evaluation of eligible Athletes in accordance with the methods and standards of the Fédération Equestre International (FEI), as outlined in the FEI Classification Manual within Para-Dressage and Para Driving disciplines.
Through this seminar, Physiotherapists and Medical Physicians will start the accreditation process to be a Level 1 EC Para-Equestrian Classifier. A Classifier is an individual with experience in assisting people with physical impairments, a comprehensive understanding of the Para-Dressage classification system, and proficient communication skills in both written and spoken English. Additionally, they should possess knowledge of horse sports.
Becoming a Classifier is an opportunity to give back to the community, enhance the life of a person with a physical and visual impairment, and grow professionally and personally. EC National Classifiers play an integral role in an Athlete’s journey from grass roots to representing Canada at the international level. Providing athletes with an initial classification assessment, Classifiers are essential in supporting Athletes and their coaches in identifying and using the compensating (adaptive) aids that are best suited for a specific Athlete. EC National Classifiers have the opportunity to progress to become International Classifiers.
The course is open to Physiotherapists and Medical Physicians who wish to become Equestrian Canada (EC) Para-Equestrian Classifiers. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn from renowned experts in Para-Equestrian sports, equipping participants with the insights needed to assist Canadian athletes in achieving success on the international stage.
Canadian Para Classifiers also receive a small stipend from Equestrian Canada with expenses paid to deliver their role.
Seminar topics will include: an overview of the classification process, adaptive aids, classification profiles, neuromuscular disorders and classification of the visually impaired. Participants will also have an opportunity to practice classification and gain hands-on experience.
Attendees will be asked to do pre seminar reading to prepare for the seminar.
Para-Equestrian Classifier Course
May 29-May 31, 2024
OTTAWA, ON CAN– OTTAWA DRESSAGE FESTIVAL
Language of Instruction: English
Number of Participants: 5 to 10
Location: Ottawa, ON – Venue to be confirmed
Clinician (s):
Sue Foell: Sue Foell has 40+ years experience as a certified Physiotherapist and has been involved in Equestrian Sports for over 50 years. In 2010 Sue became a certified EC National Classifier. In 2012 she attained her International Level 1 FEI Classifier status and in 2021 she attained her International Level 2 FEI Classifier Status. She currently has the Level 3 FEI Classifier Status.
Robyn Allen: Robyn Allen has been a registered Physiotherapist since 2001. She currently works in the Adaptive Riding industry as a Program Manager as well as practicing PT using hippotherapy. Robyn has been a National Para Equestrian Classifier since 2017 and obtained her FEI Level 2 Classifier status in 2023.
Participation: Open to current licensed Physiotherapists and Medical Physicians who wish to become Para-Equestrian Classifiers and current EC Classifiers.
Attendance: A detailed schedule will be sent to registered participants after the registration deadline.
Attendance:
· Attendance is limited for each session and availability is on a first come, first served basis. Please complete the online registration in advance of the May 08, 2024 deadline.
· If you are using this clinic for promotion, be sure to advise EC Para-Dressage Program Coordinator upon registration.
· Email will be sent to registered participants after the registration deadline with schedule.
· Attendance is taken at the beginning of each session.
· All sessions must be attended in their entirety to receive clinic credit.
Attire: Please dress professionally and appropriately.
Program and timetable: Will be sent to participants after application receipt
Fees: $200- online registration completed on or before May 08, 2024
Hotel Information: Please reference the Ottawa Dressage Festival – Website under Location
https://nationalcapitaldressage.ca/en/
Refund: If a participant is unable to attend a clinic and notifies Equestrian Canada, Para-Dressage Program Coordinator, of withdrawal in writing at least 14 days prior to the start of clinic, 50% of the clinic fee will be refunded. If a participant withdraws from a clinic and is replaced from a waitlist, a full refund will be provided minus a $25 processing fee. If a participant withdraws from the clinic with less than 14 days’ notice, the clinic fee is non-refundable regardless of waitlist status.
Contact: For further details, please contact Program Coordinator, Para-Dressage - jgoodfellow@equestrian.ca
