Fiona Maynard: A Para Dressage Champion with Dual Ambitions
Fiona Maynard, a British para dressage rider, made significant waves in the equestrian community by being crowned the Grade IV Grand Prix champion at the 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships. This victory shines even brighter when considering the unique challenges Fiona and her equine partner, Denver IX, have surmounted.
The Winning Partnership: Fiona Maynard and Denver IX
Competing with a visual impairment, Fiona relies heavily on her friend Emma Payne, who acts as her caller during dressage tests. This role is crucial as Emma guides Fiona through the competition arena. Initially, Denver IX was perplexed by this arrangement, often stopping to look at Emma during early tests. However, with his calm personality and a good sense of humor, Denver quickly adapted to this new dynamic.
Even with a small hiccup during the medium trot, where an "accidental canter" occurred, Fiona and Denver IX secured a winning margin of over one percent, showcasing their growing bond and adaptability in para dressage.
Fiona's Dual Ambitions: Para and Able-Bodied Competitions
Fiona's aspirations don’t stop at para dressage. She has already ventured into able-bodied prix st georges classes and aims to advance to the inter I level soon. This dual focus illustrates her dedication and the versatility of Denver IX. Fiona plans to compete in both para and able-bodied competitions, aiming to focus more on prix st georges over the winter while preparing for the CPEDI3* Para Dressage at Wellington.
Challenges and Adaptations in Para Dressage
Para dressage comes with its own set of challenges, particularly regarding horse training and rider adaptation. Horses like Denver IX must learn to respond to additional aids, such as callers and sometimes ‘friend’ horses positioned outside the arena to help them remain calm. For visually impaired riders, tools like callers are indispensable, and trust between the rider, caller, and horse is paramount.
Future Plans and Competitions
Fiona's immediate goals include competing at the CPEDI3* at Wellington, a significant event in the para dressage calendar. In the long run, she aims to reach the inter I level in able-bodied dressage—a challenging but achievable target given her current trajectory. Her dual participation not only emphasizes her personal ambition but also contributes to the broader inclusion of para athletes in mainstream equestrian competitions.
Conclusion
Fiona Maynard's journey is a powerful testament to determination, adaptability, and the special bond between a rider and horse. Her continued success in both para and able-bodied dressage not only inspires others but also sets a high standard for aspiring competitors. Fiona's story highlights the exceptional capabilities and resilience of para athletes and their horses and underscores the importance of inclusive and supportive environments in competitive sports.
For further reading on para dressage, you can visit the Horse & Hound Article.