The Para Equestrian Foundation, a new non-profit community interest company dedicated to supporting para riders, has launched its ‘Unicorn Campaign’. This fundraising campaign aims to raise the funds needed for the foundation to buy 2 very special horses for its beneficiaries to ride. It is hoped that enough money can be raised to fully fund the care and competition expenses of the 2 horses for 12 months as well, so the foundation hopes people will be generous.
The Para Equestrian Foundation is the brainchild of our own blogger, founder and director of operations Di Green, an International 3* Grade 1 Para Dressage athlete who is a member of the World Class Podium Potential Squad. The foundation has been set up to give a range of support to gifted athletes taking part in all the para equestrian sports – driving, vaulting, showjumping, reining and dressage – no matter what their goals are. The Unicorn Campaign will allow the foundation to offer competition and training rides to gifted athletes who lack the resources to fund their own horse.
Di was inspired to act after discovering first-hand how expensive it is to compete as a para athlete. Di returned to the saddle in 2013 after a 15-year break from riding following a horse-related head injury. After using the amazing services of the Coates Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) near Cirencester, Di caught the competition bug. A discussion with a fellow para athlete opened her eyes to the costs involved in competing, which can be as high as £50,000 a year for those at international level. Thankfully, Di found the support team she needed, including her coach Holly Norris, and is now on the pathway to Tokyo 2021. Now, with the launch of the Para Equestrian Foundation, she’s on a mission to help others.
Di told us, “I am so proud to bring the Para Equestrian Foundation from concept to reality. The cost of riding as a para athlete can be completely prohibitive for some, but I know from personal experience how transformative it is to be able to ride either for therapy or for competition. The Foundation relies on donations, partnerships and volunteers to be able to deliver the support to para athletes, so I hope the news of our launch will inspire others to support our cause! Para athletes interested in applying can follow our social media channels for news of the next intake, as can potential sponsors or volunteers”
How to support the Unicorn Campaign
Those wishing to donate £5 to the Unicorn Campaign simply text Unicorn to 70460. To donate a different amount, simply add the sum you wish to donate after ‘Unicorn’. For example, text Unicorn10 to donate £10.00 or enter Unicorn20 to donate £20.00. Supporters can also support the work of the foundation by purchasing items from their clothing collection. This includes a t-shirt, cosy hoodie and smart jacket, all featuring the organisation’s branding and all ethically sourced. Just visit https://www.paraequestrianfoundation.org/shop to take a look.
Learn more about the Para Equestrian Foundation and its aims here: https://www.paraequestrianfoundation.org
