Medals for all Aussie riders at Special Olympics World Games in Berlin

Four Australian equestrian athletes have just finished a week of competition at the Special Olympics World Games held in Berlin, Germany, with the closing ceremony yesterday wrapping up an amazing experience for these young riders.

Karen Messmer (16), from Rockhampton; Oliver King (16) from Brisbane; Jaye Barnesby-Buie (20) from Perth; and Isabella Parisi (23) from the Gold Coast are some of the youngest on Team Australia and none of them have been to a World Games before. In fact, Oliver King (QLD) is the youngest Australian competitor at the World Games at just 15-years-old…and this is the first time he has ever travelled overseas.

Even more challenging is that our competitors have to ride a local horse they have never met. A borrowed horse competition is difficult even for the most experienced of riders, however this young Aussie team certainly rose to the challenge and each member of the equestrian team has secured at least two medals. 

On Day 1 all riders rode a divisioning test where thier ability was assessed and from there ranked within their divisions. As a result of this ranking, Jaye competed in all events with the highest ranked canter riders, Karen and Bella were allocated to Division B and Oliver Division B.

The results from the week of compatition are as follows:

Jaye Barnesby-Buie
Dressage Division A - Bronze
English Equitation Division A - 4th
 Jumping Equitation Division A - Silver

Isabella Parisi 
Level B Dressage (D06) - Gold
Level B English Equitation (D07) - Bronze
Level B Working Trail (D06) - Gold =

Karen Messmer
Level B Dressage (D06) - Silver
Level B English Equitation (D07) - Bronze
Level B Working Trail (D07) - Gold

Oliver King 
Level B Dressage (D05) - Bronze
Level B English Equitation (D06) - Silver
Level B Working Trail (D06) - Gold =

The Australian team’s success at the Special Olympics World Games is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and passion for horse riding. Their achievements have not only made their families and supporters proud but will also hopefully inspire many other athletes with intellectual disabilities to pursue their dreams and strive for greatness. Congratulations to all the riders, coaches, and supporters who made this achievement possible.