The Royal Stables in Abu Dhabi has launched an ambitious project in the run-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games, aimed at developing a competitive para-dressage team to represent the UAE.
With a mission to empower para-athletes and inspire future generations, The Royal Stables is actively seeking potential Emirati athletes to join the development pathway, sponsorship partners and community support to bring this ambitious vision to life. This project is a unique opportunity to be part of a historic journey toward the Paralympic Games, championing diversity and breaking barriers in equestrian sports.
The Royal Stables has assembled a team of distinguished experts to manage this project, spearheaded by Performance Manager Laura Richardson, bringing her extensive experience in elite sports management to optimise athlete development and competitive success, and Russell Mackechnie-Guire as the Technical Lead, whose PhD in equine biomechanics and vast expertise will provide a scientific edge to training and performance strategies.
H.E. Buthaina Abdullah Mohamed Ali Al Mazrouei, Member of the Board at The Royal Stables
“Our mission is to create an inclusive and empowering environment where every aspiring para-dressage athlete can reach their full potential. With the leadership of our exceptional team, the support of our community and the backing of visionary sponsors, we are excited to embark on this journey to the Paralympic Games and showcase the incredible talent from the UAE.” Says Laura Richardson, General Manager of The Royal Stables.
Same basic rules as the sport of Dressage, the highest expression of horse training, adjusted for athletes of determination. Athletes perform at a walk, trot and canter, executing tests ridden from memory that follow a prescribed pattern of movements, with the test difficulty determined by the athlete’s graded level of impairment.
Athletes are graded according to the severity of the impairment, ranging from Grade I—most severe impairments that usually require the use of a wheelchair—up to Grade V, which is classified as a mild impairment of movement or muscle strength or visual impairment.
H.E. Buthaina Abdullah Mohamed Ali Al Mazrouei, Member of the Board at The Royal Stables, expressed immense pride in the launch of the project, stating, “This initiative is a testament to our dedication to fostering talent and breaking barriers in equestrian sports. We are thrilled to support our para-athletes in achieving their Paralympic Games dreams.”
For more information on how to apply as an athlete, become a sponsor, or support this initiative, please contact UAEParaDressage@theroyalstables.ae.
