PATHWAY TO COMPETITION

 

Equine Pathways Australia (EPA) is dedicated to supporting athletes with disability in their pursuit of equestrian competition at all levels. Our programs provide an effective pathway for riders to access local, national, and international events, offering opportunities that might not otherwise be available to them.

EPA works closely with clubs and organisations to integrate athletes with disability into their programs, ensuring greater community inclusion and expanding competitive opportunities. By providing expert guidance, EPA helps organisations, clubs, and coaches foster a more inclusive and supportive equestrian environment.

Through our High-Performance pathway, riders have the opportunity to develop towards elite-level competition, including para-equestrian events at the FEI World Equestrian Games and the Paralympic Games. These prestigious events represent the pinnacle of international equestrian sport, offering athletes the chance to compete on a global stage.

PATHWAY TO LA & BRISBANE PARALYMPICS

 

The journey towards the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games is an exciting opportunity for EPA participants. The LA 2028 Paralympic Games, taking place from 15 to 27 August 2028.  Looking further ahead, the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games, scheduled for 24 August to 5 September 2032, will be a landmark event for Australian athletes. With the Games being hosted on home soil, EPA is committed to preparing Australian para-athletes to seize this incredible opportunity to represent Australia at the highest level.

The Equine Pathway to LA & Brisbane Paralympics Program is designed to unite both our general participation and high-performance programs, fostering a strong, inclusive, and holistic community that supports all riders. This unique initiative allows every EPA participant to share in the journey towards these prestigious international events.

The program is structured as a long-term development plan that includes clinics, camps, and competitions, all aimed at preparing athletes—both human and equine—for the elite level of competition. The ultimate goal is to provide EPA participants with the best possible opportunities to be considered for selection as members of the Australian Paralympic team for LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032.

While only a small number of riders will be selected for the team, the EPA program ensures that all participants, regardless of experience or ability, benefit from a supportive and enriching environment. Bound by a shared passion for horses and the transformative impact of equestrian sports, this program is a crucial step in fulfilling EPA’s mission to create meaningful opportunities for learning, growth, and community engagement.

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

 

The Equine Pathways to International Competition Program is built upon EPA’s highly successful two-day clinics, conducted nationwide. These clinics provide world-class training, led by top coaches and supported from both the disability and high-performance sport sectors, ensuring comprehensive athlete development.

Based on the Australian Institute of Sport’s FTEM (Foundations, Talent, Elite, and Mastery) framework, the program supports athletes at all levels—whether they participate for enjoyment, aim for competition success, or aspire to international podium finishes. This structured approach ensures athletes receive the appropriate guidance and resources to progress along their chosen pathway.

While all EPA participants benefit from access to these elite services, the program also identifies scholarship athletes with strong potential for international selection. These athletes receive additional tailored support to maximise their chances of success. However, scholarships are a two-way commitment—recipients are expected to demonstrate dedication, actively engage in training and competition schedules, and contribute positively to the EPA community.

Additional scholarship support will include: (i) more targeted competition program development, (ii) team camps that prepare athletes to adapt to the unique Paralympic competition environments, and (iii) support through the EPA Horse Owner program which partners our athletes with suitable quality horses to compete at the highest level.

The High-Performance pathway exists alongside EPA’s General Participation and Vocational programs, ensuring that every rider, regardless of experience or ability, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in the equestrian community. As we look ahead to LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032, EPA remains dedicated to guiding our athletes on their journey toward international competition and success.

FULL PROGRAM DETAIL