Hong Kong Ready for Paralympic Equestrian Events

Hong Kong is ready and eager to stage the Paralympic equestrian events, says Chief of Paralympic Services at the Equestrian Company, Ms Amanda Bond.

“The Paralympic equestrian events are a unique and inspirational experience for competitors and spectators alike,” said Ms Bond.

“The Paralympics provide a vibrant and energising atmosphere that is entertaining in the context of each sport.

“It also creates a collective motivational atmosphere that is attractive to spectators and media.”

The Paralympic Equestrian Events will be held at the Sha Tin Equestrian Venue from September 7 – 11.

A total of 73 riders from 28 countries will compete in the events, which comprise team and individual Dressage competitions with morning and evening sessions on most days.

“Dressage is the only Equestrian event included in the Paralympic games,” Ms Bond explained.

“As with able-bodied Olympic Dressage athletes, it is the ultimate test of training and harmony between horse and rider.”

Ms Bond said individual riders are required to complete two ‘tests’ - the Individual Championship Test followed by the Freestyle Test.

“The Freestyle Test includes set movements individually choreographed by the rider and set to music. This is often described as ‘ballet for horses’ and is very entertaining for the spectators.” 

Teams of three or four riders from any nation also compete in a Team Test.

The world-class equestrian facilities at Sha Tin won broad acclaim from competitors during the Olympic Equestrian Events that were staged between August 9 and 21.

Ms Bond said the focus of the Paralympics is the athletes and their inspirational stories of achievement.

“The guiding principles laid down by the International Paralympic Committee is to focus on the excellence and accomplishment of athletes who triumph despite their own personal challenges,” she said.

“There is also a strong emphasis on fair play, and providing an environment free of prejudice and discrimination.

“In addition, all those who take part – whether competitor or spectator – help promote the Paralympic values of transendence, integration and equality.” 

Ms Bond said the Paralympic equestrian events provided another opportunity for Hong Kong people to experience the thrill of a world-class competition in their own hometown.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the city and I encourage everyone to get behind the athletes and to give them a typical warm and rousing Hong Kong welcome,” she said.

For details of the Paralympic equestrian events and ticketing information, please visit: www.equestrian2008.org.

Source: www.equestrian2008.org