Para Equestrian National Classification

The Classification System is designed to enable disabled riders to compete on equal terms against each other.

Athletes are classified according to their disability across five grades, which determine the complexity of the movements that riders perform with their horses. Grade I is for athletes whose impairment has the greatest impact on their ability to ride, through to Grade V for athletes whose impairment has the least impact on their ability to ride.

To start competing in Para-Equestrian competitions, you will need to be classified to determine which grade you can compete in. In order to be classified, riders must be medically diagnosed as having a permanent, physical impairment that can be measured objectively by a Para Equestrian Classifier.

Classification Hub Calendar 2025

National Para Equestrian (PE) Classification Hubs are confirmed for 2025. If you would like to compete in Graded Para Competitions with RDA, British Dressage and/or British Carriage driving please submit your application to be classified along with supporting medical information to British Equestrian. This is a 2-stage process:

• Stage 1 – Submission of forms and medical information for the Classification Working Group (CWG) to process
• Stage 2 – If the CWG confirms the applicant has a medical condition(s) which meets the minimum impairment criteria, they will be invited to have an Athlete Evaluation (physical assessment) at one of the hubs listed.

Please refer to British Equestrian for full details, including the eligibility criteria, rules, application process and forms:

• Para Classification
• Impairment and Eligibility
• Getting Classified

Keep an eye out for the new application system we will be implementing in the new year.

N.B If a hub does not have a sufficient number of appointments to warrant going ahead with it, it will be cancelled.