Versailles, France – The U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team achieved a historic milestone at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, securing their first-ever team gold medal. This marks their second consecutive Paralympic medal, following their success in Tokyo where they earned bronze. The team’s impressive performance was led by Rebecca Hart on Floratina (Grade III), Fiona Howard on Diamond Dunes (Grade II), and Roxanne Trunnell on Fan Tastico H (Grade I). All three riders delivered scores above 77% in the FEI Grand Prix Test B, resulting in a record-breaking combined score of 235.567, the highest ever recorded in Paralympic para-equestrian competition.
“This has been a long-term goal, and it all started after the Tryon 2018 games when we began making changes to the program,” said Chef d’Equipe Michel Assouline. “Winning bronze in Tokyo was part of the plan, but from that moment, I knew gold was our goal for Paris. After years of hard work, planning, and competition, we’ve finally achieved it. It’s a proud moment for everyone involved in this program.”
Strong Start for the U.S. Team
Roxanne Trunnell, from Royal Palm Beach, Florida, and her new partner Fan Tastico H, kicked off the competition for the U.S. with an impressive score of 77.000%. The 2017 Oldenburg gelding, owned by Karin Flint, showed great promise under Trunnell’s guidance despite their relatively short time together since early 2024.
“I focused on keeping him moving forward,” said Trunnell. “He’s just seven years old, and he’s only going to get better. Michel has played a huge role in building our confidence and growth as athletes.”
Fiona Howard’s Paralympic Debut Shines
Boston native Fiona Howard, riding Diamond Dunes, continued the U.S. team’s dominance in Grade II. The pair scored a stunning 80%, the highest score recorded across any grade during the week. The 2013 Hanoverian gelding, owned by Dressage Family LLC and Hof Kasselmann, performed with precision and consistency.
“From the moment we started, I knew he felt great,” said Howard. “It’s amazing when you can trust your horse completely. By the end, I was exhausted, but he kept going and gave me everything. It’s been an incredible experience.”
Howard credited the support of the entire U.S. team for their success. “We have an amazing support system, from trainers and vets to our federation. The teamwork here has been crucial to our victory.”
Rebecca Hart Clinches Gold for the U.S.
Veteran Rebecca Hart from Wellington, Florida, and Floratina were tasked with securing the gold in a tight competition with the Dutch team. Hart, one of the most experienced athletes on the team, delivered a personal best score of 78.567%. Floratina, a 2008 Hanoverian mare, made history by becoming one of the few horses to win gold medals at both able-bodied and para-equestrian events.
“This feels surreal. It’s the result of years of hard work, and I’m so proud of our entire team. We all came together to make this happen,” said Hart. “I hope this victory will raise the visibility of para-equestrian sports and bring more recognition to our discipline. This success can help grow our sport and attract more sponsors, horses, and athletes.”
Looking to the Future
The U.S. team’s historic win marks a significant step forward for para-equestrian sports in the United States. As they look ahead, the athletes and coaches hope this success will inspire more opportunities, support, and growth within the program.
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will be remembered as a groundbreaking event for U.S. para dressage, setting the stage for future achievements and recognition on the global stage.
