CORK PARA EQUESTRIAN -PARALYMPICS GOAL

Hello, I'm Angela Lyons, a Para Equestrian and horse lover from Blarney, Cork Ireland.

As a teenager I showjumped to high National level, but after a severe fall that broke my pelvis, hip and femur , I couldn't showjump any more. Giving up riding was not an option so I took up dressage which has become the sport I love.

Initially even with a leg disability I won 11 National Championships Titles at different levels. Chronic pain forced me to get a hip replacement quite young.....it did not go well. My Tibial nerve was torn and I had limited use of my lower leg as well as crippling nerve pain. I thought I would never ride again but looking at photos of my horses by my bed ,gave me the motivation to push through and get back in the saddle. It took a long time but I made it back. As things finally started to turn around I developed joint pains all over and fatigue. I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis which affects my joints, tendons, lungs and eyes.. This time is was a bigger challenge to get back in the saddle but with the help of medication, I made it.

GET KNOCKED DOWN, GET UP AGAIN.

Through the tough times my horse and desire to compete, has kept me going .Goal Setting is very importan to me and i have some big ones!

Our dream is the Paris Paralympics . My partner in this adventure is Woodcroft Santa Cruz( or Tommy to his friends. )

THIS IS WHERE YOUR SUPPORT COMES IN

In an aim to qualify for the Paralympics , we must attend 3 International events. 2 in the UK and 1 in Europe.

These competitions are self funded and cost I the region of 1500 to 2000 euros per event.

Entry Fees, Transport of horse and competition expenses all add up.

Any money raised will be put towards travel and competition costs. I am dedicated to the sport I love and am bo stranger to hard work!

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and any donation, no matter how big or small, willbe greatly appreciated. I hope you are inspiring by this determined, if slightly wonky Para Equestrian Rider and decide to come on this journey with me and my four legged friend, Tommy.

It's a big challenge but we are up for it!

WHAT IS LIFE WITHOUT A CHALLENGE.