Wellington CPEDI Celebrates Global Para Dressage Talent And Inspiratio

The Wellington CPEDI: A Showcase of Talent and Resilience

The 2025 Wellington International Festival of Dressage brought together the best para dressage talents from around the world, highlighting outstanding performances, the return of seasoned competitors, and the debut of promising newcomers. Over the course of June 9 and 10, the competition wasn’t just a display of athletic prowess but also a celebration of courage, determination, and community spirit among riders and their horses.

Outstanding Performances: A Display of Skill

Laura Scott stood out with her Grade IV performances on Cei Summer Days. Her remarkable score of 74.225% in the Freestyle segment was a testament to both her skill and dedication, putting British para dressage on the map internationally. Competing in Grade V, Alice Begg and Nalique also showcased exceptional talent, earning top placements and demonstrating the high level of training and preparation at Wellington.

Resilience: The Heart of Para Dressage

The stories of riders like Ellie Hamilton and Suzanna Hext added a layer of inspiration to the event. Competing in Grade IV, Ellie rode Twynmelyn Aderyn Du after it recovered from eye surgery, achieving 65.250% and 67.333% in Novice tests despite the horse’s limited vision. This achievement was a moving reminder of the resilience and determination inherent in para dressage. Meanwhile, Suzanna Hext made a triumphant comeback in Grade II with Inferno after battling post-concussion syndrome, further proving the perseverance and dedication required in high-performance para sports.

Newcomers: The Emergence of New Talent

The festival wasn't just about established stars; it also provided a platform for newcomers like Katie Reilly in Grade III and Ireland’s Clodagh Walsh in Grade I. Their participation marked the ongoing growth of the sport and the nurturing environment that encourages new athletes to reach their potential, showcasing a sense of collective growth and support in the para dressage community.

Advances in Training and Rehabilitation

The Wellington competition also highlighted broader trends, including the impact of horse breeding and advanced veterinary care on performance. Horses like Cei Summer Days and Nalique exemplify how breeding can influence success. Additionally, the successful recovery and continued performance of Twynmelyn Aderyn Du after surgery accentuates the importance of modern rehabilitation techniques. The increasing integration of sports psychology and mental health awareness in training programs, as exemplified by Suzanna Hext’s recovery journey, shows a progressive shift towards holistic athlete well-being in para sports.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Competition

The 2025 Wellington CPEDI was more than just a PARA dressage competition. It was a vibrant showcase of competitive spirit, resilience, and camaraderie. From the outstanding performances of seasoned competitors to the heartfelt journeys of those returning to the sport against all odds, the festival celebrated the dual triumphs of sports and personal milestones. The event stood as a testament to the strength of the para dressage community, firmly establishing Wellington as an essential hub for para dressage talent and international recognition. For more information on para dressage events and results, you can visit the British Dressage website at [British Dressage](https://www.britishdressage.co.uk/), and further specifics regarding the event can be found at [Equipe Online](https://online.equipe.com/shows/71575).

Wellington CPEDI Celebrates Global Para Dressage Talent And Inspirational Resilience