British CarriagedrivingPARA EQUESTRIAN DRIVINGHOW TO EXPLORE NEW OPPORTUNITIES |
DO YOU HAVE A DISABILITY OR SUPPORT SOMEONE WITH A DISABILITY?EXPLORE THE WORLD OF CARRIAGE DRIVINGAre you looking to explore new opportunities in equestrian sports? Whether you're living with a disability or supporting someone who is, carriage driving could be the perfect fit. Carriage Driving for All Abilities Carriage driving offers an excellent option for individuals seeking a way to engage with horses and for those unable to ride due to disability. The Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) offers incredible opportunities to over 1,000 drivers across 60 groups, with activities ranging from leisurely drives to competitive events. RDA Carriage Driving is open to all RDA members and is an excellent introduction to the sport. To find out more, visit the RDA Group's Page. Progress and Compete The RDA encourages drivers to progress along similar development paths as riders, offering proficiency tests to help you increase and showcase your skills. Additionally, you can compete in RDA and British Driving Society (BDS) shows, where classes are tailored to your level of ability. Already a Para-Athlete? Try Something New with Carriage Driving! There are multiple ways to get started with carriage driving: The British Carriagedriving "Try Driving" program gives you the chance to experience the sport firsthand. Learn more here. Carriage Driving Sports Group for Drivers with Disabilities (CDSGdd) is a charity dedicated to supporting drivers with disabilities. They offer training clinics, taster sessions, and support to help drivers reach their goals, whether that’s improving everyday driving skills or competing at the highest levels. For more details, visit the Carriage Driving Sports Group. Challenges? We're Here to Help! Already driving but want to take on a greater challenge? Perhaps you're interested in Driving Trials, but are concerned about mobility or other challenges that might affect your participation. Don't worry - adjustments and aids are available to ensure you can compete safely and fairly. The British Carriagedriving (BC) Protocol for Para Divers has been developed to remove barriers to participation. Here's how it works: Let us know the specific disability and any adjustments that would make your experience easier. This can be done by filling out the Application Form for Classification and Approval. Your request will be reviewed by an independent panel to ensure fair competition while facilitating your participation. Adjustments are always made with driver safety and horse welfare in mind. If you're new to driving trials, you'll need to complete a competency assessment before competing, just like any other driver. Another useful document to study is Additional Guidance on Compensating Aids and Other Reasonable Adjustments. Safety/Competence Assessment for Club Para Drivers This is a version of the Club Competence Assessment adapted for para drivers. The objective of this assessment process is to ascertain whether a driver and his turnout are sufficiently competent and safe to take part in any Public Outing organised by the Club. The driver is expected to enter their first two events with the turnout on which this assessment was undertaken. Download more information and forms here: Introductory Safety/Competence Assessment for Club Para-drivers Many Driving Clubs offer specific classes for drivers with disabilities, while others integrate you into the regular BC classes. Learn more about competition structures here. Get Ready for 2025! We look forward to seeing you take the reins in 2025. If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to reach out to the BC Drivers with Disabilities Chair, Julie Camm, at julie@juliecamm.co.uk
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