Inclusion in the saddle: Para riding inspires in Karlsfeld!

Inclusion in the saddle: Para riding inspires in Karlsfeld!

Karlsfeld, Deutschland - On June 15, 2025, Karlsfeld was the scene of a remarkable dressage exam that celebrated inclusion in equestrian sport. Under the organization of the Dachau horse lover, seven teams competed, consisting of a para rider and a rider without a handicap. This exciting event, which was recognized as para deux, took place in Germany for the second time and brought together participants from the region. Merstadt focuses on that the team spirit and the equality in the saddle on that day stood.

A special Highlight was the young Lavinia Rötzer, who with her partner Lucia Rötzer from PSV Altomünster showed a fantastic performance on the mare on the mare and won the test with a score of 7.8. Jenny Schlichenmayer from the horse lovers Dachau and Stefanie Herrmann from PSG Schweizer Hof, who received a grade of 8.5 for this, were in second place. Lavinia, who suffers from early creeping cerebral palsy, and Jenny, who has a paralysis of the right leg, impressively demonstrated what inclusion in equestrian sports means.

a celebration of inclusion

The atmosphere at the award ceremony was accordingly solemn and positive. Coach Claudius Frey proudly spoke about the dedication and team spirit of his protégés and emphasized the importance of inclusion in sport. All participants felt part of a special community, which made the event a full success. Interestingly, the exam only awarded honorary prices, which also underlined equality and inclusion.

This initiative to promote people with disabilities in equestrian sport is a comprehensive trend that has become increasingly important since the 1990s. For example, horse.de of numerous clubs that create, including riding offers and work for the participation of people with and without disabilities. One example is the Ankum riding and driving club, which operates a barrier-free riding facility and absorbs up to 80 people with impairments every week in his riding lessons.

from therapy for sport

The linking of therapy and sport is promoted by institutions such as the German Board of Trustees for Therapeutic Riding (DKTHR). According to dkthr , the equestrian sport for people with disabilities offers a great opportunity to participate. The focus here is on fun and sporting activities, while the positive effects on the physical and mental health of the riders should also be emphasized. The transition from therapeutic offers to sport is often carried out in the form of riding holidays and competitions.

Inclusion in equestrian sport is not just a trend, but a remarkable step towards an equal and respectful society. With the implementation of this exam, the horse lovers Dachau made a valuable contribution to this goal and showed that equestrian sport combines, no matter what challenges you have.