Kate Shoemaker and Vianne Secure Individual Bronze in Grade IV FEI Grand Prix Freestyle at Paris 2024
American Para Equestrian Duo Shine in Paris
Congratulations to Kate Shoemaker and her mount, Vianne, for winning the Individual Bronze medal in the Grade IV FEI Grand Prix Freestyle at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The pair delivered a captivating performance, showcasing their exceptional partnership and athleticism. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Shoemaker, who has represented the United States in Para Equestrian for over a decade. Vianne, a 15-year-old Hanoverian mare, has been Shoemaker's trusted partner since 2018, and their bond was evident throughout their Freestyle routine.
Shoemaker's Journey to Bronze
Shoemaker's journey to the podium began with a strong performance in the Team Test, where she and Vianne earned a score of 73.063%, placing them in fourth position. In the Individual Championship Test, they improved their score to 74.971%, securing a place in the Freestyle final. The Freestyle is an expressive discipline that allows riders to showcase their creativity and musicality, and Shoemaker and Vianne delivered a captivating performance that wowed the judges and the crowd.
A Memorable Freestyle Performance
The pair's Freestyle routine was set to a dramatic soundtrack that perfectly complemented their graceful movements. Shoemaker and Vianne demonstrated exceptional control and precision throughout the test, executing complex maneuvers with ease. The judges rewarded their performance with a score of 77.235%, placing them third behind Great Britain's Sophie Wells and C Fatal Attraction and Germany's Angelika Trabert and Fantastic Dream.
Building on Success
This Bronze medal is a testament to Shoemaker's dedication and hard work, as well as the exceptional partnership she has with Vianne. The pair have been training tirelessly for this moment, and their efforts have paid off. This achievement is not only a personal triumph for Shoemaker but also a source of pride for the United States Para Equestrian team. It is a reminder of the incredible talent and determination of our athletes.
Additional Highlights from Paris 2024
- In the Grade I Individual Championship Test, Rihards Snikus of Latvia secured the Gold medal with a score of 84.029%, while Great Britain's Natasha Baker and Keystone Dawn Chorus claimed the Silver with 78.500%, and Belgium's Barbara Minneci and Barilla took home the Bronze with 77.857%.
- The Grade II Individual Championship Test saw Great Britain's Lee Pearson and Breezer triumph with an impressive score of 82.286%, followed by the Netherlands' Rixt van der Horst and Findsley N.O.P. with 79.357%, and Denmark's Katrine Kristensen and Goerklintgaards Quaterback with 78.143%.
- In the Grade III Individual Championship Test, Tobias Thorning Joergensen of Denmark rode Jolene Hill to victory with a score of 80.714%, while Germany's Steffen Zeibig and Feel Good 4 claimed the Silver with 78.614%, and Great Britain's Anne Dunham and LJT Lucas took home the Bronze with 77.857%.
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games have showcased the incredible talent and determination of Para Equestrian athletes from around the world. Kate Shoemaker's Bronze medal is a testament to her hard work and the exceptional partnership she has with Vianne. Congratulations to all the athletes who competed in Paris, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for Para Equestrian sport.
