Hartpury proudly hosts the first ever World Para Dressage Championships under the governance of the FEI from the 18th – 22nd July.  

Entries have been received from one hundred and forty-two competitors spanning thirty three nations, making this the largest World Championships for Para Dressage the world has seen and Team GBR has a large team of 15 competitors.

The Team GBR grooms are a complete mixture of full time professionals, friends and Mum's and Dad's and this has lead to a fantatsic team atmosphere! Team GBR now have a regular Stable Manager, Jenny Ellis, who ensures that everything runs smoothly for the duration of the event. BGA visited Hartpury to meet some of the grooms:
 
**Paulina Crechacka is grooming for Lee Pearson and has worked for him for 5 years. She is originally from Poland, but now feels very much part of Team GBR! Paulia says " I am so excited to be at these Championships, everyone is so helpful. Our horse, Altino is new to us as we have him on loan, but he has settled in well and we are all very happy."
      
**Julie Balshaw is not only Ricky's Mum and Carer, but also his groom. She has travelled all over Europe with him and is delighted to be part of Team GBR at Hartpury - "This is a fantastic event, with exceptional facilities and a great team atmosphere. Jenny Ellis is a real asset to the team as despite there being 15 horses, the stables are calm, organised and happy."
      
**Beth Murdin has two horses to look after for Felicity Coulthard. Beth is an ex event groom for Chris Bartle and is delighted to be part of this very special event. "My background is originally showing, so my horses will be exceptionally well turned out! But having seen all the other amazing grooms on Team GBR I am sure that ALL our horses will stand out in the arena."

Published: 20 Jul 2007