Funding gap forces Ireland's top para riders to fundraise to compete at European Championships

Irish Examiner

3 days ago

Ireland's top para riders, who face challenges most elite athletes don't, must now clear an unexpected financial hurdle that threatens their participation in the European championships next month.
Despite having achieved the international qualification standards required to represent their country, the Irish para dressage team said 'unforeseen circumstances' have left a funding gap, which puts at risk their dream of competing at the European Para Dressage Championships.
They have now launched a last-minute fundraising drive to ensure they can compete at the event at the National Equestrian Centre in Ermelo, the Netherlands, from September 3 to 7.
The team, which includes Katie Reilly, 16, from Kildare, and Clodagh Walsh, 16, from Waterford, both of whom are ranked one and two in the world at under-18 level, and Angela Lyons, from Cork, are determined to make it.
'Finding out about the shortfall a month before the competition wasn't ideal,' Angela said.
But we are going to do everything possible to turn this dream of competing in this competition into reality. We are not ones for giving up.
'Everyone's worked so hard to get to this level, and we are all doing our best to keep our training going, and to stay fit, so this funding shortfall is really the last thing we needed, but we are a determined bunch.
'We are very grateful for the support and help we have received to date, but we need to keep going.'
Katie, the world number one in her category, and who will compete with Keystone Dawn Chorus, said: 'I was really proud and excited when I found out I was selected. My rider John helps get Lottie ready so I can focus on riding my best. I couldn't do it without my team.'
Clodagh, the world number two in the same group, said: 'It's a great honour to represent Ireland. My support team helps me prepare and compete, and I'm very thankful for everything they do.'
Dressage is one of the most technically demanding disciplines in equestrian sport, requiring absolute precision, mutual trust between rider and horse, and the ability to perform under immense pressure.
Para dressage is for athletes with physical disabilities, with athletes competing in grades, ranked one to five, based on their individual physical abilities, with grade one for athletes with the most challenges.
It is run under the same basic rules as traditional dressage, with riders performing a series of prescribed movements on their horses to demonstrate their horsemanship skills and the horse's training, with tests which include movements in straight lines, circles, and changes of gait.
Para rider Katie Reilly on Keystone Dawn Chorus. She is ranked number one in the world at under-18 level.
Riders can use compensatory aids or assistive devices like additional dressage crops, specially adapted reins, or special saddles.
Para Equestrian Ireland, the charity which supports the athletes, said they ride not for financial gain or fame, but for pride, identity, and a belief in what is possible.
'It's not about medals, it's about meaning,' a spokesperson said.
It is supporting the team's travel and competition expenses, but the money won't cover additional costs for accessible transport, specialist support and accessible accommodation, carers, therapy appointments, and personal care alongside training.
Angela, who will compete with Tommy, said it's a huge honour to be picked to represent Ireland.
'Every time I ride, I remember why I do this. It's not just about competing but about showing what's possible,' she said.
Para rider Clodagh Walsh on Chantal. She is ranked number two in the world at under-18 level.
'Everyone wants to show their ability. We all do it for the love of the sport, but also to prove to ourselves that we can do it.'
The horses will depart for the Netherlands in late August to arrive in the Ermelo stables by September 1, ahead of the competition.
If you or your company would like to support the athletes, email [e-mail], or donate directly on idonate.