Equestrian Canada (EC) is proud to announce the High Point Champions of the 2025 Para Dressage Video Competition Series—a program that continues to champion inclusion, accessibility, and athlete development across the country. Para dressage riders from coast to coast showcased their passion, perseverance, and progress, earning top honours across multiple divisions.
This year’s standout champions—Sandra Bogart, Janet Ruel, Micah Klein, Addy Zoldy, and Natasha James—demonstrated exceptional dedication, skill, and sportsmanship throughout the series. The Para Dressage Video Competition Series continues to provide an important competitive pathway, offering riders the opportunity to compete nationally, receive meaningful feedback, and advance their development while growing the sport of para dressage in Canada.
2025 High Point Champions
Division 2 – Sandra Bogart, Pacific Banner Riding Club, riding Maestro and Tys from Vancouver BC
Sandra Bogart participated in the video competitions aboard Tys, thanks to the support of Dr.Miriam Grob, Ariel Sutherland, Jenny McGruer, Jessica York, and Marcie Doyle, as well as Joe and Maestro. Under Marcie’s guidance, Sandra finished the season as the Division 2 High Point champion, marking a significant milestone in her competitive career.
Looking ahead to 2026, Sandra plans to compete at EC sanctioned Gold competitions in the Lower Mainland and will ride L’aza in upcoming video competitions for continued development.
Division 3 – Micah Klein, Serendipity Stables, riding Sugar Crush from Newmarket, ON
Micah Klein has been riding since age four and currently trains at Serendipity Stables. Video competitions offered an accessible and less stressful alternative to in-person competitions, which he cannot always attend.
Despite setbacks during the season, Micah persevered to finish strong, earning the High Point Award—a testament to persistence and dedication. He is grateful to his coach, Linda Weldon, and his mom, Mandy Klein, for their unwavering support.
Division 5 – Janet Ruel, Rocky Ridge Quarter Horses, riding Midnight Sun from Duncan, BC
Janet Ruel returned to riding after a 28-year hiatus following a car accident. Moving to BC in 2020 and teaching therapeutic riding introduced her to Para Dressage, a discipline she had never known.
Video competitions have been particularly valuable for Janet, providing feedback in a region with few in-person shows. Winning the High Point award in her first full year showing Midnight Sun marks a milestone she describes as “really special.”
Looking ahead, Janet plans to compete in Gold shows, pursue FEI classification, and aims to earn a spot on the Talent ID Squad. She credits Equestrian Canada for providing seamless access to competition opportunities.
Division 6 – Natasha James, Private Stable, riding Pantera from Nanaimo, BC
Natasha James entered video competitions to identify areas for improvement and track her progress without the high costs of in-person shows. The video format allows her to review rides and gain perspective when training.
On receiving the High Point Award, Natasha says, “I appreciate the recognition and support from EC, my fellow riders, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I have had to grow and experience these moments with my horse, Paris.”
Looking ahead, she hopes to represent Canada internationally and inspire the next generation. “Para Dressage shows resilience and quiet strength. It can positively change our sport for all dressage,” she notes.
Reflecting on her journey, Natasha adds, “My path has had ups and downs, but incredible riders and supportive equestrians inspire me every time I ride. Real growth comes from reflecting on mistakes and challenges. Positivity, honesty, support, and genuine commitment to growth—for horses, riders, and the sport—are essential.”
Division 7 – Abby Zoldy, Hope Haven Therapeutic Riding Centre, riding Gaben, Owen Sound, ON
Abby Zoldy enjoys Para Dressage for its fun and engaging format. On why she joined the video competitions, she says, “They’re cool and awesome and it’s fun to be videoed.”
Being recognized as High Point Rider makes her feel “excited and proud,” and she is already looking forward to the 2026 competition. Abby’s goal is simple but meaningful: “Be calm and focus on the test.”
Her journey continues to be shaped by enjoyment, confidence-building, and developing her skills with each competition.
High Point Centre Champion – Manestream, Victoria, BC
Manestream earned the highest overall points during the series, claiming the title of 2025 High Point Riding Centre Champion. The centre has provided therapeutic riding in British Columbia for many years, with multiple athletes participating in the 2025 video competition season.
Coach Feature – Stella French, Manestream (Victoria, BC)
Stella French brings over 35 years of coaching experience across therapeutic riding and Para Dressage. Her involvement in video competitions began in 2008, and she continues to support riders year after year. She notes that the structure provided by video competitions benefits both riders and coaches, offering motivation and clear direction for weekly lessons.
Manestream is proud of its riders for achieving the High Point Centre award and looks forward to supporting their ongoing equestrian development.
“The 2025 High Point Championships celebrate the incredible achievements of our Para Dressage community. Every challenge met, every skill mastered, and every goal reached is a triumph we share together. Congratulations to all our award winners! Your hard work and commitment have truly shined, and we are thrilled to celebrate your remarkable achievements. We eagerly look forward to the exciting season ahead in 2026!”
– Jamie-Ann Goodfellow, Program Coordinator, Para Dressage / Dressage
To be eligible for High Point Champion recognition, athletes or centres must compete in a minimum of four competitions within the annual series. Points are awarded based on placings in each division and are accumulated throughout the season to determine the year-end High Point Champions.
Equestrian Canada congratulates the 2025 High Point Champions and all participants for their resilience, dedication, and commitment to excellence throughout another successful season. EC looks forward to seeing these athletes continue to grow and succeed in future competitions.