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WEG Para Dressage Gold for Emma
(October 19, 2010)WEG Para Dressage Gold for Emma!
Para Dressage Rider, Emma Sheardown is World Freestyle Para Dressage Champion after leading a GB medal clean sweep in the Grade 1a event at the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky.
She achieved success against all the odds overcoming a terrible accident the previous evening to clinch the Individual Grade 1a Freestyle title.
Emma had an eventful 36 hours starting with her first ever World Championship medal – a bronze in the Individual 1a test. Drama then unfolded on her way to the press conference when she fell and suffered a severe facial impact breaking two front teeth. She was rushed to hospital and at this stage riding again in the Championships seemed unlikely.
But, following excellent treatment Emma returned in true form - with determination and renewed confidence. She showed true grit and produced the performance of her life on her 12 year old gelding Purdy’s Dream (Ed).
Emma commented: “I’m so happy, Ed was a star and the test felt amazing”.
This year para-equestrian dressage was included, for the first time, in the Games which includes the eight equestrian disciplines of dressage, eventing, show-jumping, para-equestrian dressage, driving, endurance, reining and vaulting.
Emma who suffers from cerebral palsy was one of seven riders who competed in Grade 1A classes – for those riders with the highest degree of disability.
She was joined in her Grade by Beijing gold medallist Anne Dunham, and Sophie Christiansen who can also boast an impressive tally of championship and Paralympic gold medals.
Other team members included Lee Pearson – the World’s most successful Paralympic dressage rider, Ricky Balshaw, Jo Pitt and fellow Lincolnshire rider Sophie Wells.
Speaking on behalf of Emma’s sponsor - CWG Countrystores – Lisa McNeill said: “Emma is incredible and her success is a testimony to her dedication and determination. We’re absolutely delighted for her.”
CWG Countrystores Ltd is the leading retailer of farm and country products throughout the Midlands and Eastern Counties supplying agricultural, equestrian, lifestyle and pet products.
The Games took place in Kentucky, USA from Saturday 25th September to Sunday 10th October with the para-equestrian dressage competition taking place between Tuesday 5th October and Sunday 10th October.