Riding Toward Inspiration: Highlights from the 2025 Para Dressage Coach and Rider Symposium at Wheatland Farm
- Muriel Forrest
- Apr 30
- 3 min read
It would be difficult to find enough superlatives to properly describe the success of this past weekend’s Para Dressage Coach and Rider Symposium at Wheatland Farm. From start to finish, the event exceeded expectations, offering a transformative experience for everyone involved.
On Friday April 25, seven Para Dressage coach candidates gathered at Wheatland Farm’s Coffee Shop for a full day of intensive study under the expert guidance of US Equestrian Chef d’Equipe and Head Coach for Para Equestrian Dressage, Michel Assouline. A highly respected figure in the world of Para Dressage, Coach Assouline is known as the winningest coach in world Para Dressage history. His extensive experience, coupled with his passion for developing both athletes and coaches, made for a day rich with knowledge and inspiration. Coaches traveled from as far as Maine to gain insight from this legendary figure.
Following a successful day of study and discussion, the coach candidates dispersed for the evening, preparing for their coaching practicum the next day.
On Saturday morning, each coach had thirty minutes to teach a meaningful Para Dressage lesson to athletes they had never met before, on horses they had never worked with. Wheatland Farm’s horses and ponies, along with students and visiting Para Dressage athletes, provided an exceptional array of horses and riders for the candidates to work with. The panel of assessors was extremely impressed with the quality of instruction presented, and by the end of the day, all candidates had passed their teaching practicum with flying colors. They now have just one written exam left to achieve their USEF Para Coach certification.
On Sunday, it was the riders' turn to shine. Para Dressage athletes, along with a few coach professionals, gathered to hone their skills under Coach Assouline's expert eye. Riders ranged from those just beginning their Para Dressage journey to those with international 3* competition experience, creating a wonderful display of talent and diversity. After a catered brunch, where coaches and athletes enjoyed fellowship and fun, it was back to work in the indoor arena, where riders continued to refine their skills with Coach Assouline's guidance.
A special highlight of the day was a surprise visit by the First Lady of the Commonwealth of Virginia, Mrs. Suzanne Youngkin. A rider herself, Mrs. Youngkin watched with rapt attention as young Para Dressage athletes Masyn Estep and Maisie Eastman showcased their skills. The First Lady also had the opportunity to discuss the US Para Dressage Team’s success at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games with Coach Assouline, as well as learn more about the development of riding programs for individuals with disabilities across the country. Mrs. Youngkin also observed senior Para Dressage coaches and instructors, Anthony Forrest and Abby Brassard, as they rode their young horses with Coach Assouline's valuable guidance.
By the end of the weekend, all participants—seven new coach candidates, riders, volunteers, families, and friends—left the symposium feeling inspired, uplifted, and already anticipating the next opportunity to come together. A huge thank you goes out to all the Wheatland Farm volunteers, staff, and families who made this event possible, and to the generous and talented coaches who give so much to the sport of Para Dressage.
To learn more about US Para Dressage, we invite you to click the link below to watch our video and discover the incredible impact this sport has on individuals with disabilities.
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