Equestrian commences at the 2024 Paralympics, with Bucks athlete going for gold
The discipline is being competed in at the scenic Versailles gardens
Athletes competing in Para equestrian at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games are gearing up, with disciplines being disputed today.
The backdrop for every Equestrian discipline in both the Olympics and Paralympics has been the world-famous and UNESCO heritage site of the Palace of Versailles, providing a unique and picturesque setting.
Amongst the line up of athletes are some newer faces, like Mari Durward-Akhurst, from Amersham, who will be competing in Para dressage her very first Games.
Having competed at the European level and earned a silver medal, Mari was officially notified of her selection last month.
Mari, who uses a wheelchair, spoke of the freeing sensation being on a horse is for her.
She said: "I'm in a wheelchair full time and I always say that holds the my legs and together with the horse we excel because it's out of the wheelchair and they don't really judge me either."
"And I'm able to do so much on them like walk basically, which I can't do.
"So from that aspect, it is freedom."
Like many equestrian athletes, Mari has formed a strong bond with her horse, a seasoned competitor with nine gold medals from previous Paralympic and European championships, which is crucial to their performance.
In addition to dressage, Mari has pursued rowing as a hobby during the pandemic lockdown, even representing Welsh Para rowing and winning two gold medals.
Despite this success, dressage remains their primary focus.
"It's very much a hobby. Riding has always been my passion", she added.