Equestrian Opportunities
About Athletes Without Limits & Virtus International
As the USA Member of Virtus, Athletes Without Limits goal is to help US equestrian riders access International Dressage Competition opportunities offered by Virtus, Virtus, the International governing body for athletes with intellectual impairments and a member of the International Paralympic Committee.
Virtus Annual Video Dressage Competitions
Since 2017 Virtus, the International governing body for athletes with intellectual impairments has opportunities for accomplished equestrians to compete annually in International-level dressage video competitions, which allow participants to compete against riders from all over the world without sacrificing the security of their own horse and coaching team. There are three entry windows for the 2026 Virtus Para-Dressage Video Series and riders can enter any or all of them!
Occasional Virtus In-Person Dressage Competition
Beginning with the 2023 Virtus Global Games in France (where two US riders competed in live dressage), some in-person events may also be possible with rented horses at Virtus Global Games held every four years. Save the Date for the next 2027 Virtus Global Games Cairo, Egypt!
Watch videos of US riders competing in the 2020 Video Competition!
Which Dressage Tests are Offered?
Qualified riders are expected to perform a tests in accordance with FEI standards (specific tests are posted in each event entry pack) including Grade II, III and IV depending on rider level and Virtus eligibility group.
Virtus Eligibility Groups
Competition includes the three Virtus eligibility groups below:
- II-1 Intellectual Disability and Autism with ID (IQ 75 or lower, Adaptive domain of 70 or lower, onset before age 33)
- II-2 Intellectual Disability w/significant Additional Impairment (includes Tri21 Down Syndrome)
- II-3 Autism-This category offers competition for athletes with Autism who don’t meet the IQ and Adaptive criteria for ID)
New US Athletes should complete the one-time Virtus International Eligibility Application.
Contact Us
If you know of a talented rider who is interested or currently competing in equestrian events, please contact us to find out more about Virtus eligibility requirements and competitive opportunities that may be available for your rider.
