Equestrian athletes arrive in Berlin to represent Australia at Special Olympics World Games

The Special Olympics is a global organisation that promotes the inclusion and empowerment of people with intellectual disabilities through sports. Every four years, athletes from around the world gather to compete in the Special Olympics World Games. This year, four Australian equestrian athletes are competing in the World Games held in Berlin, Germany.

The four Aussies are set to compete in a variety of events, including Dressage (Walk, Walk/Trot), Jumping and Equitation.

The four athletes who have just arrived in Berlin to compete are Karen Messmer (16), from Rockhampton; Oliver King (16) from Brisbane; Jaye Barnesby-Buie (20) from Perth; and Isabella Parisi (23) from the Gold Coast. All four riders are set to compete at their first Games and will each compete on borrowed horses in three events.

Karen, Oliver and Isabella will be competing in Dressage, English Trail and Equitation, and Jaye in Dressage, Equitation and Equitation Jumping.

These athletes have been training hard for the Games and are excited to compete against others from around the world. They are proud to represent Australia and hope to bring home medals for their country.

The Special Olympics World Games are a celebration of the athleticism, determination and spirit of people with intellectual disabilities and these four young Australian riders are a testament to this.

The competition starts on June 20 and we wish them all the best of luck as they represent Australia on the world stage.

Article courtesy of Equestrian Australia