The Centro Hipico Quinta Paraiso Alto, near Bensafrim in the Western Algarve, was host to a range of disabled riders from across Portugal for a Special Olympics qualification event on 29th April.
In the warm Algarve sunshine riders competed across a range of Working Trail classes and Dressage categories, demonstrating skill, determination and outstanding sportsmanship throughout the day.
In the Working Trail events, the “with leader” class saw a clean sweep for the local Riding for the Disabled Barlavento (RDB) riders, with Alice Mourinho taking first place, Matilde Mourinho second, and Jordan Pires third. In the Working Trail (riding independently) category, Cristina Silva secured first place and Solange Pereira took second, both representing RDB, while Cristina Gago of the Vilamoura/Faro Riding Unit placed third.
Further success followed in Working Trail (trotting independently), where Mateus Reis of RDB finished first, followed by Joao Loja of Alentejo Riding Group in second place and Ruben Antunes of Lisbon in third. In Working Trail (trotting with leader), Dinis Mestra of Alentejo claimed first place. In the Working Trail (canter independently) class, Sara Marques took top honours.
The Dressage competition featured three categories: walk, trot and canter. In the walk category, Cristina Silva of RDB took first place. In the trot category, Mateus Reis of RDB finished first, Joao Loja of Alentejo placed second, and Ruben Antunes of Lisbon came third. In the canter category, Sara Marques of Lisbon claimed first place.
Following verification by the National Special Olympics Committee, these results reflect not only competitive success but also the dedication, perseverance and progress of all riders who took part. All winners were presented with medals, and every participant received a rosette in recognition of their effort, commitment and participation. RDB were also delighted that Cristina Silva has been selected to be part of the national team travelling to Monaco for the Equestrian Games at the end of June — a significant achievement and a proud moment for the entire team.
Commenting after the event, Maddie Grossey from RDB said, “This competition is the time when the riders can show off their hard work, efforts and skills with the horse and it also gives them great self-confidence. There will be another Special Olympics competition in October where the riders will have a further opportunity to show their progress with their horse riding.” Chairman of Algarve 41 Club, Kendal Milne also commented, “we are proud to be a supporter of RDB and thank them for the work they do to make a difference to the lives, health and well-being of local disabled people We congratulate every competitor, coach and supporter who contributed to such a positive and memorable event.”
W: https://www.riding4disabled.com/
