SCONE rider Lisa Martin is one step closer to a spot on the Australian team for Rio after performing strongly at a crucial nomination event in Victoria over the weekend.
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Martin finished first in the three tests of the Boneo CPEDI, an international para-equestrian dressage competition, and recorded impressive scores of over 70 per cent each time.
Recently classified as a grade four rider based on her level of disability, she believed her performances could get even better.
“It can be a little hard for a horse to adjust to a new level of competition but, in saying that, I thought the horse did really well,” she said.
“I think I can find another three percent once I ride the test more and get used to it.
“I loved it out there, and I loved the cheer squad.”
Martin said she hoped a successful showing at the upcoming Paralympic Games would help raise the profile of the sport.
“If we can put a strong Para-Equestrian team forward in Rio and win a medal then this will help to raise the profile of equestrian sport in general and our potential for future funding,” she said.
“We are told success will breed success which can only be good for dressage.”
For Australian-based hopefuls vying for selection, the final opportunity to obtain a qualifying score will be at Sydney in April.
A number of combinations will also be campaigning in Europe, while the first northern Hemisphere nomination event gets underway in April.
The Paralympic Games will be held from September 7-18.