The Long Island Horse Show Series for Riders with Disabilities (LIHSSRD) is a specialized adaptive equestrian competition program administered by HorseAbility in Old Westbury, New York. The series was created to provide riders with disabilities an opportunity to participate in organized horse shows that emphasize horsemanship, sportsmanship, skill development, confidence building, and competitive achievement in an inclusive environment. LIHSSRD serves as one of the premier adaptive equestrian competition programs on Long Island and offers riders opportunities to compete throughout the show season while working toward qualification for championship events.
The program is designed to support riders with documented disabilities who participate in therapeutic riding and adaptive horsemanship programs. Through structured competitions, participants gain valuable experience demonstrating riding skills, horsemanship knowledge, responsibility, and personal growth while enjoying the camaraderie of the equestrian community.
About This Program
LIHSSRD provides a series of horse shows specifically developed for riders with disabilities. Competitions are judged on rider balance, seat, use of aids, horsemanship, control of the horse, ring etiquette, safety, sportsmanship, and overall suitability of the horse-and-rider partnership. Riders compete in divisions that accommodate a variety of ability levels and support needs, ensuring an accessible and rewarding experience for all participants.
The series encourages skill progression and goal achievement while promoting self-confidence, independence, and inclusion. Riders who participate in multiple qualifying events throughout the season may earn invitations to championship competitions, providing additional opportunities for recognition and accomplishment.
Services Offered
- Adaptive horse show competitions
- Therapeutic riding competition opportunities
- Equitation classes for riders with disabilities
- Walk, walk-trot, and advanced adaptive divisions
- Horsemanship evaluation and skill development
- Rider achievement recognition programs
- Seasonal championship qualification opportunities
- Inclusive equestrian sporting events
- Competitive riding experience in a supportive environment
- Sportsmanship and leadership development
- Confidence and self-esteem building
- Community participation and social engagement opportunities
- Adaptive equestrian education and skill assessment
Who They Serve
Long Island Horse Show Series for Riders with Disabilities may be good for:
- Children with disabilities
- Teen riders with disabilities
- Adults with disabilities
- Therapeutic riding participants
- Adaptive riding students
- Individuals with developmental disabilities
- Individuals with physical disabilities
- Individuals with neurological conditions
- Individuals with autism spectrum disorder
- Individuals with cerebral palsy
- Individuals with Down syndrome
- Individuals with learning disabilities
- Individuals seeking adaptive equestrian competition opportunities
- Riders pursuing personal growth through equestrian sports
Facility and Setting
LIHSSRD events are hosted at participating equestrian facilities throughout Long Island and are coordinated through HorseAbility, a PATH International Premier Accredited Center located on the SUNY Old Westbury campus. The competitions are designed to provide safe, supportive, and accessible environments where riders can demonstrate their skills and enjoy the benefits of equestrian sport.
Participants are supported by instructors, volunteers, horse handlers, and adaptive riding professionals who help ensure successful and enjoyable competition experiences. The program emphasizes both rider achievement and horse welfare while fostering positive relationships within the adaptive equestrian community.
What Makes Them Unique
LIHSSRD stands out because it provides a dedicated horse show circuit specifically for riders with disabilities. Unlike traditional horse show programs, the series is structured to recognize adaptive riding skills and accommodate varying levels of physical and cognitive ability while maintaining meaningful competitive standards.
Another distinguishing feature is the pathway it creates for riders to advance their equestrian abilities and compete in prestigious finals events. The program encourages long-term participation, goal setting, and achievement while promoting inclusion within the broader equestrian community. Through HorseAbility’s leadership, LIHSSRD has become an important opportunity for adaptive riders across Long Island.