Equestrian Canada (EC) announced the 2024 Para Dressage Year-End Award Recipients, as recognized by the Para Dressage Committee, for their impressive achievements and contributions to the growth and success of the Canadian equestrian community.
2024 EC Para Dressage Award Recipients
- Athlete of the Year – Roberta Sheffield
- Horse of the Year – Fairuza
- Owner of the year – Lucinda Blakiston Houston
- Coach of the Year – Karis van Essen
- Volunteer of the Year – Robyn Allen
Para Dressage Athlete of the Year: Roberta Sheffield
Roberta Sheffield has been awarded the prestigious title of Para Dressage Athlete of the Year, honoring her exceptional achievements and unwavering determination throughout the season. This marks the second consecutive year that Roberta has received this recognition.
As one of Canada’s top athletes, she consistently ranks among the best in the world. Her recent accomplishments include an impressive 6th place finish at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, and she is currently recognized as the top Canadian athlete in the FEI World Para Dressage Rankings.
Proudly representing Canada since 2013, Sheffield is a three-time Paralympian and a 5th place finisher from the 2022 World Championships.
Demonstrating remarkable perseverance and passion, Sheffield was re-classified this spring, giving her only a few short months to compete in the Grade II tests before the Paralympic Games in Paris this summer.
Over the years, she has ridden nine different horses at the FEI level, including her long-standing partnership with Fairuza.
Para Dressage Horse of the Year: Fairuza
Fairuza, a 15-year-old Gelderlander cross owned and trained by Roberta Sheffield, has gained recognition as the top Canadian horse in Para Dressage. They recently placed an impressive 6th at the Paralympic Games and currently rank first among all Canadian Para Dressage horses in the FEI World Rankings.
Additionally, Fairuza and Roberta delivered a stunning freestyle performance in Paris, earning a score of 73.18. This achievement highlights their exceptional teamwork and ability to execute their routine with precision and artistry. It underscores their individual strengths and significantly contributes to their overall success in the sport. Congratulations to Fairuza and Roberta on this outstanding milestone.
Para Dressage Owner of the Year: Lucinda Blakiston Houston
Lucinda Blakiston Houston from Gortin, Ireland has been recognized as the Para Dressage Owner of the Year.
Lucinda is the proud owner of the 17-year-old Hanoverian gelding Happy Feet 3, who was ridden by Canada’s Austen Burns at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Lucinda bought Happy Feet 3 in 2016. She went to her first International with him in 2019 as a Grade V Para Dressage athlete.
With the guidance of her instructors and Happy Feet, she learned the fundamental concepts of dressage. Prior to this, she focused on grassroots riding, including eventing and hunting. Her journey in dressage has been truly remarkable, especially after sharing her horse with another para athlete. Witnessing the growth of both the horse and athlete has enriched her own experience in dressage competitions. This symbiotic relationship has been incredibly rewarding for Lucinda and she hopes that other owners and athletes consider taking a similar path.
Lucinda has made significant contributions to the Canadian Para Dressage team, showcasing her unwavering support for athlete Austen Burns. Through her dedication and passion, she continues to leave a lasting impact on the sport.
Para Dressage Coach of the Year: Karis van Essen
Karis Van Essen is the Para Dressage Coach of the year for 2024.
Karis is not only a coach, but a registered physiotherapist and an FEI Grand Prix dressage rider. She has coached Jody Schloss for 10 years including at two World Championships and two Paralympic Games. Karis exemplifies the principles of athlete development and fair play. She has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to international competition. She creates a safe, fair, and enjoyable environment for equestrian athletes.
Through her dedication and leadership, Karis has made a significant impact on the development of athletes, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the sport.
Para Dressage Volunteer of the Year: Robyn Allen
Robyn Allen was recognized as the Para Dressage Volunteer of the Year for her exceptional contributions to the equestrian community. A registered physiotherapist since 2001, Robyn currently serves as a Director of Operations in the Adaptive Riding industry and incorporates hippotherapy into her practice.
As a valued member of the Para Dressage Committee and the Classification Advisory Group, Robyn shares her expertise and passion for para-equestrianism. She is also a National Para Equestrian Classifier and holds the status of FEI Level 2 Classifier.
Robyn’s dedication to enhancing the lives of athletes through her professional work and volunteer efforts makes her a truly deserving recipient of this award.