Paraequestrian Ireland Membership 

Membership can be done online through Itsplainsailing

Join Here

or by downloading our membership form

PEI Membership 2025

 

Membership types

1. Riding Member

For classified Irish Para Dressage riders, including High-Performance and Grassroots level. Riders who are Eligible for classification

  • Key Info: Riders classified or eligible for classification in accordance with IPC/FEI rules.
  • Cost: €35.00 (plus handling fee)
  • Benefits:

     

      • Access to training, competition, and other benefits related to participation in Para-equestrian events.

      • Riders are eligible to be part of Irish national squads, from grassroots to high-performance levels.

      • Riders are covered by insurance for events and training.

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2. Junior Riding Membership

For Para Riders under 18 years old (Junior Riders).

  • Key Info: Must be accompanied by a Parent or Guardian.
  • Cost: Free (No Fee)
  • Benefits:

     

      • Access to all benefits associated with being a Junior Rider, including eligibility for competitions, events, and training.

      • Riders must also be classified according to IPC/FEI rules to compete in para-dressage competitions.

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3. Parent/Guardian Membership

For parents or guardians of Junior Para Riders.

  • Key Info: Must accompany a Junior Riding Membership, providing the necessary support for the Junior Rider. Necessary for child safeguarding.
  • Cost: Free (No Fee)
  • Benefits:

     

      • Helps to keep parents and guardians informed on activities, events, and opportunities for Junior Riders.

      • Parents or guardians can also support their child’s participation in competitions and training.

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4. Non-Riding Member

For individuals to support Para Equestrian Ireland

  • Key Info: Ideal for people who want to support Irish Para Riders, attend AGMs/EGMs, and apply for board positions.
  • Cost: €30.00 (plus handling fee)
  • Benefits:

     

      • Voting rights at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Extraordinary General Meetings (EGM).

      • Support the growth and development of Para-equestrian sport in Ireland.

    • Ability to apply for board positions within Paraequestrian Ireland.

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What is Classification?

Classification ensures fair competition by grouping riders based on how their impairment affects their ability to ride. Each rider is assessed to determine their Grade, which allows for fair comparison in competitions. Riders may also be evaluated for the use of compensating aids, special equipment that assists them during competition without providing an unfair advantage.

Eligibility 

To compete in para equestrian competitions, riders must have an eligible impairment that is permanent, measurable, and verifiable.  

Eligible impairments include:

– Impaired muscle power

– Impaired passive range of movement

– Limb deficiency

– Hypertonia

– Ataxia

– Athetosis

– Short stature  

– Vision impairment

All para equestrian riders are required to undergo a classification process, which includes submitting relevant forms and medical information, followed by a physical assessment to determine eligibility and the appropriate competition grade.

What to Expect During the Classification Process

The classification process involves a comprehensive evaluation to determine the impact of your impairment on your ability to ride. 

Step 1

Medical Assessment: A review of your medical history and current health status.

Step 2

– Physical Evaluation: Assessment of your muscle strength, joint range of motion, and coordination.

Step 3

– Functional Assessment: Observation of your riding skills to understand how your impairment affects your performance.

This thorough evaluation ensures that all athletes are placed in the appropriate grade, promoting fair competition.  

If you’re unsure whether you meet the eligibility requirements, please don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance or refer to the classification information on the Paralympics Ireland website.  

We’re here to help and support you through the process.

[email protected]

Important Notice

Please do not send any medical information to PEI. All medical details must be sent directly to Paralympics Ireland through their official process.

For more information about classification, please visit Paralympics Ireland

Irish Paralympic team at Paris