For Riders
WHAT Is Para Reining?
Para Reining is a competitive sport designed for riders with physical disabilities. Para riders have a measurable and/or verifiable physical or visual disability. Para Reining is judged on the performance of the horse and rider as a team. Riders are not judged on their level of disability.
What are grades?
Riders entering a World Para Reining competition are required to provide a medical form documenting their physical condition that will stay on file at WPR. WPR also accepts the classifications already in place by the FEI and apply the rider's designated grades to the WPR efforts. If a rider has not been classified by the FEI, then WPR will require the necessary WPR form. Riders have the freedom to choose their grades but they must meet the grade requirements set by WPR, which are created with fairness and equality in mind.
Grade 1
Riders are typically wheelchair users with impairment in all four limbs. The rider may be able to walk but only with assistance. Walk-only patterns are included in this grade. Compensating aids are allowed.
GRADE 2
Riders are typically wheelchair users with some limb function. The rider may be able to walk, but with limited balance and limb function. Jog-only patterns are included in this grade. Compensating aids are allowed.
Grade 2 Pattern 1
Grade 2 Pattern 2
Grade 2 Pattern 3
GRADE 3
Riders are able to walk without support, but have minimal use of limbs. Modified lope patterns are included in this grade. Compensating aids are allowed.
Grade 3 Pattern 1
Grade 3 Pattern 2
Grade 3 Pattern 3
Grade 3 Pattern 4
Grade 3 Pattern 5
GRADE 4
Riders are impaired in one or two limbs. Full lope patterns are included in this level (e.g. AQHA patterns 1 through 13). Compensating aids are allowed.
*Visual Impairment
Visual impairment with a disability will be graded according to the physical impairment. Visual impairment with no other disability will be classified as Grade 3 or 4, according to their needs.
For Show Organizers
If you'd like to host a WPR event or WPR classes at your show, we'd love to support you! Please be sure to download and return this Event Approval Form as soon as possible. If you have any questions about the process, please don't hesitate to contact us.