Team USA's Para Dressage athletes have had an extraordinary week at the Paralympic Games in Paris. Their historic wins began in the individual medal phases, and have continued to team gold, with just one phase left to contest. Today, we are re-capping on the competition so far....
During the Individual Medal phase, which began on Tuesday September 3, riders Rebecca Hart, Kate Shoemaker, Fiona Howard, and Roxanne Trunnell each delivered standout performances. On Tuesday, Rebecca Hart claimed gold in Grade III with a top score of 77.9%, while Fiona Howard took gold in Grade II, scoring 76.9%. Roxanne Trunnell on her beautiful Fantastico H earned a high score of 78% and an individual silver medal. On Wednesday, in Grade IV, Kate Shoemaker was well within medal contention when an uncharacteristic misstep from her typically flawless mare, Vianne, dropped her score slightly to 72.2%, just outside medal contention. Even with a minor bobble, it was a remarkable achievement from Kate and Vianne, and they look set to be incredibly competitive in tomorrow's Individual Freestyle.
Today, Roxanne Trunnell, Rebecca Hart, and Fiona Howard contested the team competition for the U.S. True to expectations, these ladies and their incredible horses did not disappoint. First out for the US, Roxanne and Fantastico H earned 77%, followed by Fiona Howard and Diamond Dunes' stunning 80% and Rebecca Hart and Floratina's 78.5%. The US ladies shot right to the top of the team standings to win the USA a gold medal.
This historic win for the United States Para-Dressage team marks its first-ever gold medal at a Paralympic Games. It caps a meteoric rise in US Para Dressage over the past two Paralympic Games. Michel Assouline, head coach of the U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team, praised the team's dedication and hard work following their success. Coach Assouline emphasized the importance of teamwork and perseverance. He noted that these victories resulted from years of consistent effort and strategic planning, highlighting the riders' incredible resilience and adaptability throughout the competition. His coaching approach, particularly focusing on individualized athlete development, was crucial in preparing the riders for this level of performance. Also critical to the team's success is the indispensable support of their sponsors and families and the progressive approach U.S. Equestrian has taken over the past decade to promote and support Para-Equestrian Dressage in the United States.
Next up for these amazing ladies is the Individual Freestyle competition tomorrow! A particular crowd favorite, the Individual Freestyle involves each horse-rider combination riding a specially curated dressage test to music. Don't miss this inspiring artistry tomorrow live from the Palace of Versailles on NBC and Peacock , beginning at 3:30 a.m. E.T. This will mark the final day of Para Dressage competition for these Paralympic Games. Good luck, girls! We are all behind you!
Team riders L to R: Fiona Howard, Rebecca Hart and Roxanne Trunnell. PC: US Equestrian
Coach Michel Assouline celebrates with Fiona Howard following her extraordinary 80% score today aboard Diamond Dunes. PC: US Equestrian
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