Classification
Riders' functional abilities are classified into one of four grades. Grade I riders have a
higher degree of disability than Grade IV riders. There are five classifications with Grade V
riders allowed to compete in some national competitions but not eligible for FEI international
competitions. The rider's skill and ability to ride a horse is not a factor in the grading,
and FEI has developed a set of Dressage tests for each grade. Riders graded I or II are
required to ride walk only or walk and trot movements, whilst Grade III and IV riders perform tests
that also include canter and some lateral work. At a major competition, classifiers watch riders
training and competing and may use the observations together with other data to decide whether or
not a rider needs to be re-classified.
The Classification guidelines are as follows:
Grade I: Mainly wheelchair users with poor trunk balance and/or impairment of
function in all four limbs or no trunk balance and good upper limb function.
Grade II: Mainly wheelchair users or those with severe locomotors impairment involving the trunk and with mild to good upper limb function, or severe unilateral impairment.
Grade III: Mainly able to walk without support, with moderate unilateral impairment, moderate impairment in four limbs or severe arm impairment. May require a wheelchair for longer distances or due to lack of stamina. Athletes have total loss of sight in both eyes.
Grade IV: Impairment in one or two limbs or some degree of visual impairment.
For more specific information, please visit the official website of FEI:
