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

Saturday, January 9, 2010

Had a very productive lesson on Habakatz today. Rode the canter in a controlled, collected manor. Habakatz was not so sure about this at first and bolted to the left making a run for it out of are semi round 20 meter circle. After some convincing, he soon accepted the bit and we were right on track. Tried the Velcro thigh strap Missy suggested and Sarah felt it did provide some stability at the canter. Every little bit helps.
Made a connection with the Pentathlon Olympic Coach , Michael Cintas...a very nice guy. He operates a stable in Palm Springs, and...as it turns out, used to own Legacy Farms, in San Marcos. His sister, Debbie, now owns it. What a small world. I am hoping to enter a show there in March.

Happy to say Pan Pan is feeling better, although he is not big on the new molasses flavored butte. Go figure.

Wednesday, January 6, 2010


Happy New Year!

It has been a while since I last posted.... my excuse..... The Holiday craziness and unfortunately my little doxie, Charlies needed emergency back surgery for a herniated disc. But now I am looking forward to returning to a routine.

I have not been regularly riding Pan Pan; but I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to ride Habakatz during this time. Pan Pan's right front leg is still bothering him. The colder weather has made his ring bone flare up. His mind and spirit are just as sharp as ever. He knows he is one good looking dude...

Check out my good friend, Angel taking Pan for a ride..... (He is a big boy...but she is little!)