Riding for the Disabled Association Horsham’s Joanne and Isabelle Cuddy have won awards in state Video Dressage Championships.

Joanne said she and her daughter filmed their performances at Horsham.

“We do our competition and our ride at the RDA Horsham, and then the video is sent off to state head office where it’s judged by different coaches at different levels,” she said.

Joanne won two first places and overall champion in walk dressage, while Isabelle won two seconds and reserve champion in trot dressage.

Ballarat-based, the pair have travelled to Horsham each fortnight or each week, competition dependant, for about four years.

They are also Special Olympic equestrian athletes; Joanne has competed in three Olympics, while Isabelle will compete in her first in July.

Joanne said horse-riding was a big part of their lives.

“I have an absolute love of riding,” she said.

“There’s freedom, relaxation, and it’s just a way to get away from everyday normal life.”

Isabelle said she enjoyed both the time with the horses and other riders.

“I love the freedom and the whole relationship-building with people around here and the horses as well,” she said. 

– Bronwyn Hastings

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