The U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team has achieved a groundbreaking victory at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, securing their first-ever team gold medal. This triumph marks their second consecutive Paralympic team medal after winning bronze in Tokyo 2020. The winning team included Rebecca Hart and Floratina (Grade III), Fiona Howard and Diamond Dunes (Grade II), and Roxanne Trunnell and Fan Tastico H (Grade I). Each rider delivered exceptional performances, scoring above the 77% mark in the FEI Grand Prix Test B, resulting in a combined score of 235.567—the highest ever recorded in Paralympic dressage history.
A Dream Come True
Chef d’Equipe Michel Assouline, the mastermind behind this success, reflected on the team’s journey:
“This has been years in the making, starting back in Tryon 2018. After winning bronze in Tokyo, I knew our goal had to be gold in Paris. It took three years of hard work, planning, and refining our program to achieve this. It’s surreal but exactly what I envisioned,” said Assouline. “Everyone involved, from the riders to the coaches, has been instrumental in this historic victory.”
Roxanne Trunnell Sets the Tone
Roxanne Trunnell (Royal Palm Beach, Fla.) and her seven-year-old Oldenburg gelding, Fan Tastico H, opened the competition for the U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team with an impressive score of 77.000%. Despite being a relatively new pairing, having come together only in early 2024, Trunnell and her mount demonstrated remarkable chemistry in the ring.
“I just focused on him marching,” Trunnell commented. “He’s such a promising horse at just seven years old, and I know it’s only going to get better from here.”
She also credited Chef d’Equipe Michel Assouline for the team’s success, noting, “Michel has been crucial in our development. His experience and discipline have pushed us all to new heights.”
Fiona Howard Delivers a Personal Best
Fiona Howard (Boston, Mass.) and Diamond Dunes, her 11-year-old Hanoverian gelding, followed with an outstanding score of 80%, the highest of any grade at the event. Competing in her Paralympic debut, Howard’s bond with “Dunes” shone through as they set a personal best.
“As soon as we started, I knew he felt great. It’s an incredible feeling when you can fully trust your horse,” said Howard. “By the end, my muscles were exhausted, but Dunes kept going strong. He’s truly amazing.”
Howard emphasized the importance of teamwork: “We have an incredible support system, from trainers to vets to sponsors, and of course, our coach Michel. This victory belongs to all of us.”
Rebecca Hart Secures the Gold
Rebecca Hart (Wellington, Fla.) and her trusted partner, Floratina, were the last to ride, taking on the pressure of securing the gold. The pair earned an exceptional score of 78.567%, securing the U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team’s spot on the top of the podium. Hart has been working towards this moment for over 25 years, and her achievement is nothing short of extraordinary.
“It feels surreal,” Hart said. “This victory represents years of hard work, not just for me but for everyone involved in the U.S. Para Dressage Program. It’s a team effort, and I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished.”
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for U.S. Para Dressage
Hart also expressed hopes that this gold medal will help elevate the status of para dressage within the broader equestrian world:
“I hope this success brings greater recognition to para dressage and helps grow the sport. We’ve proven that we can compete at the highest level, and I hope this encourages more support, sponsorships, and participation in the future.”
The U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team’s historic win at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games is a testament to their dedication, skill, and teamwork. As they look ahead to future competitions, this victory will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of para dressage athletes.
Stay Connected with U.S. Para Dressage
To stay updated on the latest from the U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team, follow USA Para Dressage on Facebook and Instagram. You can also follow US Equestrian on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter for more updates. Use #USAParaDressage to join the conversation.
Support for U.S. Equestrian Teams
The U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team’s success is made possible through the support of the USET Foundation, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, and the numerous sponsors and members who believe in the team’s mission.