Rebecca Hart
Rebecca Hart got involved with the Paralympic movement in 1998 at a regional competition in Atlanta, Ga., that served as the selection trials for the 2000 Paralympic Games in Sydney, Australia. It was there that Hart decided she wanted to aim for international competition herself. She purchased her first horse and began to train seriously for national and international competition. Eight years later, Hart rode in her first Paralympic Games in Beijing.
Over the years, Hart has represented the United States at several international events, including the 2003 and 2007 Para-Equestrian World Championships. She is also a four-time national champion, winning in 2006 and then taking consecutive titles in 2008, 2009 and 2010.
Hart was born with Familial Spastic Paraplegia, a genetic disease that causes muscle wasting and lack of control from the waist down.
Hart grew up in Erie, Pa., and when not riding she enjoys kayaking, sailing, camping and rock climbing.
Major Achievements
- 2011: U.S. Team member – Alltech World Equestrian Games, Lexington, Ky.
- 2010: National Champion & Reserve Champion – USEF Para-Equestrian National Championships
- 2009: National Champion – USEF Para-Equestrian National Championships
- 2008: Fourth place, mixed dressage – freestyle (grade II) – Paralympic Games, Beijing, China
- 2008: National Champion - USEF Para-Equestrian National Championships and Selection Trials
- 2007: Member of U.S. World Championship Para-Equestrian Team, Hartpury, England
- 2006: National Champion - USEF Para-Equestrian National Championships
