Bio - Adria Di Maria

Allow me to introduce myself, Adria Di Maria, and the exciting world of Para-equestrian dressage, a sport which has been developing over the past 25 years. Athletes are classified according to their level of disability and compete on a national and international level. I contracted Polio in 1955, and as a result have significant weakness in both of my legs.

My goal is simple: I plan on being the best challenged rider I can be. This means being not only a member of our proud US Para-equestrian Team, but also a respected and contributing member of the community. As a Para-equestrian competitor, I hope to become an ambassador for the disabled athlete and to the world community in the specialty of Para Dressage at the Paralympics in 2012/ England.

Video

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Had a good lesson today with a gelding named Rio. He was ready to move out and a very fun ride. Pan Pan watched on the side lines and kept shaking his head up and down as if to say "Hey, HERE I am". I made sure Pan had a nice workout....so everyone was happy.

Monday, July 13, 2009

Below is short clip of the 2008 Paraylmpics. I have been classified as Grade 111 for competition (the last level shown.) All individuals must be classified according to particular strengthens and weaknesses associated with their disability. This helps create an equal and fair competition field. The most disabled are given a grade of 1A..to the least disabled with a Grade of IV.