VERSAILLES, France — At the stunning venue of Chateau de Versailles, Rebecca Hart took a moment to absorb her surroundings before her event. As a seasoned five-time Paralympian, she wanted to maintain her focus amidst the grandeur of the arena.

After the event concluded, Hart’s emotions were overwhelming.

She realized that she needed to achieve a personal best to secure the gold medal after reviewing the scores. When she finally heard her score and glanced at the audience, the tears flowed. It was an emotional release after 16 years of hard work. Her dream came true on a rainy morning with a final score of 77.900 in the para-equestrian individual event grade III.

“I couldn’t have pictured a better outcome,” Hart expressed. “I savored the moment, yet it feels like a dream.”

Hart was partnered with her horse, Floratina, a 16-year-old mare that had previously been a competitive horse for able-bodied riders until Hart started riding her a year ago. From the get-go, they formed a strong partnership.

Floratina still had some learning to do as Hart described how the mare had questions about competing with a para-athlete. Hart guided her, resulting in a fruitful partnership.

Much like her rider, Floratina acclimated well to the venue, having undergone training in the vast competition area beforehand. They made adjustments for the wet conditions, but Floratina understood her role and performed magnificently.

“She is incredibly intelligent,” Hart stated. “She fights for me during the competition. She thrives in this environment and enjoys competing. She knows she’s a star.”

After vying for a bronze medal in the team event during the Tokyo Games, Hart focused on both team and individual growth. Building on her experience from 2021 was crucial, and she achieved this by winning the gold medal in the para-equestrian individual event grade III, which is designated for athletes with good balance and control.

“We dedicated so much effort to this, and to see it all come together—especially on a rainy day when it mattered most—is surreal,” Hart remarked.

Fiona Howard Triumphs in Paralympic Debut

Fiona Howard, relatively new to her horse Diamond Dunes, began her partnership with the horse just in March. The Paralympics presented the biggest challenge she has faced with her equine companion so far.

The bond between Howard and her new horse led to a gold medal in the individual event grade II.

“I went in just trusting him, and he assured me, ‘I’ve got this,’” Howard shared. “He boosted my confidence throughout the test, and I couldn’t have asked for a better partner for my first Paralympic experience.”

Originally from Great Britain and having dual heritage with an American mother and English father, Howard has integrated into the experienced U.S. para-equestrian team, gleaning valuable insights from her teammates, which has made her debut more comfortable.

As she exited the venue, Howard couldn’t hide her happiness.

“The venue is stunning, and everyone has been incredibly supportive,” she said. “It’s truly been an unbelievable experience.”