Last Updated on December 11, 2024 by adminahb
Wellington, Fla. — December 5, 2024 – The United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA) proudly announces that Laura Mollrich, of Laguna Beach, California, has become the first para-dressage rider inducted into The Dressage Foundation’s prestigious Century Club. This honor celebrates horse and rider pairs whose combined ages total 100 years or more, marking a significant milestone in the equestrian community.
Laura earned this recognition by performing the USDF Introductory Test B with her Dutch Warmblood gelding, Pabatsa, in front of nearly 30 friends and family members. The event was a joyous celebration of her inspiring equestrian journey, showcasing the resilience and passion that define para-equestrian sport.
“This century ride was motivated by the ever-loving and involved para-dressage community,” said Laura. “It was Roxanne Trunnell who inspired me to aim for the Century Ride. I hadn’t ridden Pabatsa in eight years, so we brought him out of retirement. The ride was not only special because I was back on Pabatsa, but also for what it represented. It reflected my para-dressage journey — where I’ve been and my goals for the future in this sport. I’m so thankful to have done this in front of my wonderful friends and family, and my loving husband, Stu.”
Ellie Brimmer, President of the USPEA, emphasized the significance of Laura’s accomplishment: “The Century Club honor is a testament to Laura’s lifelong dedication to equestrianism. Her achievement inspires riders everywhere, showing that age, ability, and challenges are no barriers to pursuing excellence and celebrating the inclusive spirit of equestrian sport.”
The Dressage Foundation’s Century Club, founded in 1996, honors the enduring partnership between horse and rider, emphasizing their shared journey. Laura’s induction exemplifies this special bond while also serving as a beacon for para-equestrians striving for success in the sport.
Laura’s achievements extend far beyond this milestone. She is the 2023 and 2024 Adequan/USDF Para-Dressage Rider of the Year Grade IV Reserve National Champion and the USDF Holsteiner-Verband Para-Dressage National Champion with her younger Holsteiner mare, Ciave. With ambitious goals ahead, Laura continues to inspire and pave the way for para-dressage riders worldwide.
“I’ve been fortunate to be part of the dressage community for decades, and I’m deeply grateful for the inclusive and supportive para-dressage community,” said Laura. “I’m excited to achieve even more goals as a para-dressage athlete.”
Her journey underscores the importance of organizations and programs that provide opportunities for para-equestrians to thrive in high-performance sport. Laura’s dedication reflects the USPEA’s mission to empower athletes with physical disabilities to achieve their goals and shine at every level of equestrian sport.
For more information about the USPEA, please visit www.USPEA.org.