Posts

  • Jacques Poppen Clinic 2023
    Jaques Poppen, Gold Medal winning Para Driver from The Netherlands, was here for five days, Thursday 20th through Monday 24th April, at the beautiful Sargent Equestrian Center in Lodi, CA. Fifteen people attended this year’s clinic. Lessons were available every day; participants could choose to work in the dressage arena, out in the obstacles, two ...
  • Jacques Poppen Clinic April 20th through Monday 24th 2023
    JOIN US FORA FUN AND EDUCATIONALWEEK OF DRIVING AT SARGENT EQUESTRIAN CENTER, APRIL 20TH TO 24TH, 2023, SPONSORED BY U.S. DRIVING FOR DISABLED, SEC, AND NOR. CAL. DRIVING CLUB. PLEASE SEE USDFD’S FACEBOOK PAGE FOR MORE DETAILS AND THE FORMS FOR LESSONS AND EVENTS, OR TEXT GINNY LEAL AT (530) 863-8309 APRIL 20TH – 24TH: DRIVING AND ...
  • Demo-Only Driving Workshop At Dreams On Horseback
      Demo-Only Driving Workshop At Dreams On Horseback 1841 Unbridled Way Blacklick, Ohio 43004 614-864-9500 www.dreamsonhorseback.org March 9 &10, 2020 – (Mon./Tues.) Register Now! Grand Oaks CDE with our esteemed USDFD Board Member and Judge, Hardy Zantke Florida Circuit Para-Drivers Dazzle in Multiple DAP clinics and CDE’s! Photographs of Chris Carswell, Bob Giles, and Stefanie Putnam Bob Giles and Chris Carswell with Sterling Graburn (Pics of You)  Above Stefanie Putnam with ...
  • 2018 World Championship Para-Driving Team Selections
    CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NOMINATED TEAM USA  The world’s best para-equestrian carriage drivers will be competing atKronenberg, the Netherlands for the FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championships from August 28 – September 20.     US Equestrian (USE) has recently nominated the four athletes who will represent the United States as team and individual competitors:     NOMINATED TEAM MEMBERS (alphabetical): Tracy Bowman Robert Giles Diane ...
  • 2017 Para-Equestrian Driving Clinics
    Competitive Focus: Come improve your driving skills, learn about local, regional and international competition opportunities for the Para-Equestrian.  Driving is a great equalizing sport.  Come see and feel the freedom of being behind the reins in a carriage.  Everyone is welcome to attend and audit.    Lessons will be adapted to the skill level of each driver.  ...
  • USDFD/Triumph Foundation Para-Driving Clinic
    On January 23rd and 24th USDFD and the Triumph Foundation (http://www.triumph-foundation.org) introduced twenty two individuals with spinal cord injuries to the exciting sport of carriage driving at the Cutler’s Oak Run Farm in Moorpark, CA. Hardy Zantke and Diane Kastama kicked off the clinic with explanations of the sport, adaptive equipment, and Q&A ...
  • Para-Driver Stefanie Putnam Triumphs Big Time at Shady Oaks CDE
    Lodi, CA – October 16, 2015 – Para-Equestrian Driver Stefanie Putnam and her horse Bethesda After Dark (Shadow), brought home a big win from Shady Oaks Combined Driving Event (CDE) in Lodi, California. This prestigious three day CDE took place September 18- 20, 2015. Putnam drove over three days competing in the driven dressage test, ...
  • Clinic – Newcastle, CA – August 31, 2015
    For Actively Competing Para-Equestrian Drivers Newcastle, CA – August 31, 2015- The United States Equestrian Federation, Inc. (USEF) is pleased to present a one day Para Equestrian Driving Clinic featuring clinician Olof Larsson at Whispering Oaks Performance Horses in Newcastle, California. The high performance clinic is geared to currently competing para-equestrian drivers who are members of ...
  • Two Day USEF High Performance Para Clinic
    Para-Equestrian drivers, as well as riders, attended the clinic hosted by USEF at the Rancho Murieta Equestrian Center in California. In attendance were six of our drivers working with cllnicians Hardy Zantke and Diane Kastama to whom we owe a heartfelt thank you. There were joint sessions and lunches with the para dressage ...
  • May 30th – Para Driving clinic at Carlisle Academy in Lyman Maine
    Upcoming Clinics for Para-Equestrian Drivers Clinician: Para Equestrian World Champion Diane KastamaContact Sarah Armentroutat [email protected] or 207-985-0374 http://carlisleacademymaine.com/programs/training-leadership/para-dressage-education-training/
  • Carriage Dog Photo Contest
    Here are the results of the Carriage Dog Photo Contest that ADS recently held on their facebook site – both Diane with her GoldenDoodle and Stef with her Yellow Lab finished in the top 10 out of 65 entries.  I think it is a testimony to the broad marketing appeal and publicity that our disabled drivers can ...
  • Equestrienne Equal
    http://pvamag.com/sns/article/6796/equestrienne_equal Article was written by the gal who had interviewed Diane Kastama and wrote the article for a local newspaper, she then re-wrote it and submitted it to the National Magazine Sports and Spokes.
  • VIP Diane Kastama Rides Again & Helps Team USA Win Bronze
    On a recent Friday at her home on the Nipomo Mesa, Grand Meadows Sponsored FEI World Carriage Driver, Diane Kastama, took her horse Rupert out for a drive. Although she was in an automobile accident that left her paralyzed, Diane still drives carriages competitively. In late June, she helped Team USA take bronze at the 2014 ...
  • Diane Kastama Won the Becky Grand Hart Trophy
    Congratulations to our VIP Driver, Diane Kastama of Arroyo Grande, CA, who recently won the Becky Grand Hart Trophy from the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). The award is presented to international-level non-Olympic athletes. Para-equestrian driver Diane Kastama enjoyed an outstanding season in 2014, which saw her top Advanced CDE competition and earn a World Championship ...
  • Vote for the 2014 Equestrian of the Year by January 5th
    Dear USDFD Member, One of our Team USA 2014 and prominent USDFD drivers, Diane Kastama, has been nominated for the USEF Equestrian of the Year Award for 2014.   Everyone can vote.   You do not need to be a USEF member.  Just provide your email at the following link: https://www.usef.org/_IFrames/eoty/default2.aspx Further info in at the above link ...
  • The USPEA has written an oustanding report on the Shady Oaks CDE
    The USPEA has written an oustanding report on the Shady Oaks CDE para equestrians who competed. October 14, 2014- U.S. Para-Equestrian Drivers Excel at Shady Oaks Farm CDE « USPEA. United States Para-Equestrian Association Media Contact: Lindsay McCall [email protected] -USPEA, 3940 Verde Vista Drive, Thousand Oaks,
  • Stefany Putnam Is interviewed by Florida Sport Horse magazine
    Stefany Putnam Is interviewed by Florida Sport Horse magazine, Spring 2014 edition. Click here.
  • Interview of Diane Kastama by the Santa Maria Times California
    Diane Kastama likes to go fast, to ride hard, to rise to a challenge. In June, the Arroyo Grande horsewoman left her wheelchair behind to take the driver’s seat in a horse-drawn carriage she raced through rain, muck and mire to help Team USA take bronze at the 2014 FEI Para-Equestrian World Championship in Sandringham, England. As ...
  • Team USA Clinches Bronze; Robert Giles and Virginia Boo Fitch place in individual Silver and Fourth Place
    Dear USDFD Members and Supporters, At Sandringham, England the FEI Para-Equestrian World Driving Championships have come to a close today. Germany held on to its overnight lead to take Team Gold. The Netherlands took Silver with the USA a mere 3.29 penalties behind in Bronze. Great Britain finished in fourth place. Robert Giles (USA) won the ...
  • Team USA now in England; Sitting in Bronze Medal position after Dressage
    Dear USDFD Members and Supporters, The team has successfully negotiated the English Channel traveling via ferry from their training camp in Holland to Sandringham, England with Koos de Ronde’s fantastic packing and transport assistance. The dressage phase was completed today, and the team is in Bronze Medal position, just 8 points behind The Netherlands and ...
  • Driving Radio Show interview with Diane Kastama about Team USA
    Go to the Driving Radio Show and select Episode 148 for an interview with Diane Kastama about Team USA and the upcoming show in England. http://drivingradioshow.horseradionetwork.com/
  • USDFD Team Selection Announcement
    Dear USDFD Members, The United States Driving for the Disabled would like to congratulate the following three drivers and two alternates who have been selected by the USEF Para-Equestrian Driving World Championship Selectors and the High Performance Committee to represent The United States in the 2014 FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championships pending approval of the Ad ...
  • Congratulations to Diane Kastama on Candidacy as a FEI representative
    For the first time in the 93-year history of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), the athletes themselves have the opportunity to vote for their FEI Athlete Representatives. A total of 26 candidates from 10 nations are standing for election as FEI Athlete Representatives on the FEI Technical Committees for Jumping, Dressage, Para-Equestrian, Eventing, Driving, Endurance, Vaulting ...
  • Garage Sale to benefit USDFD Team USA
    4th Annual Best YARD SALE EVER Benefit Block Party Yard Sale May 3,4, 2014 11333 Orcas Ave Lake View Terrace, CA 91342 to benefit United States Driving for the Disabled, Inc. 15% or more of the proceeds will be donated to USDFD. Open to everyone to bring and sell, focusing on bringing nice horsey stuff, all  equestrian disciplines welcome. Come to sell, Come to ...
  • Auction Is Officially Open on Tuesday April 8th
    The United States Driving for the Disabled, Inc. Auction Is Officially Open on Tuesday April 8th. So what are you waiting for?…Get ready to Bid! Place Your Bid starting on Tuesday. Whether you are looking for a new driving hat, or to improve your skills with a trainer for an event near you, you’re sure to find something ...
  • Online Auction for Team USA
    Beginning on April 8, 2014, United States Driving for the Disabled, Inc. will be holding an online auction to raise funds for Team USA. The FEI Para-Equestrian Driving World championships will be held in Sandringham, England, June 2014. The auction will be held 8 to 30 April . Click on ‘online auction‘  for information.
  • Application for Para Drivers for TEAM USA World Championships
    Application for Para Drivers for TEAM USA World Championships at Sandringham, England June 27-29, 2014 Dear USDFD Members, USEF has posted the application and forms which need to be submitted if you would like to be considered for Team USA this year. The competition is in Sandringham, England from JUNE 27 – 29, 2014. The ...
  • Show Us Your Support Today
    Beginning on April 8, 2014, United States Driving for the Disabled, Inc. will be holding an online auction to raise funds for Team USA. The FEI Para-Equestrian Driving World championships will be held in Sandringham, England, June 2014. We are looking to raise funds to help ship equipment and horses to England. Normally our team ...
  • Para Driving Athlete Classification and Reclassification Opportunities
    Dear Para-Driving Athletes, There will be only two opportunities to be seen by International Classifiers prior to the World Para Driving Championships:  March 12 – 16 CPEDI3* in Wellington, Florida  April 2 – 5 CPEDI3* in Rancho Murieta, California Both of these locations will handle first time classifications and reclassifications. With respect to reclassifications, according to #2 in the classification ...
  • Apply for a Para-Equestrian Identity Card
    Dear USDFD Member, In order to compete as a disabled driver in FEI Competitions for the disabled, you must apply for a Para-Equestrian Identity Card (PE ID Card) through a formal “classification” process. The main reason  to hold a PE ID Card is that it is required for competing as a member of Team USA in ...
  • Successful USDFD fundraising clinic in Ocala Florida
    Successful USDFD fundraising clinic held in Ocala Florida Jan 10, 2014. Thanks go to Jeff McCarthy of Carriage Driving USA for organizing the clinic, Margaret Mayer Cranewood Farm of hosting the clinic , Koos de Ronde, Thorsten Zarembowicz and Suzy Stafford for instructing, Florida Fresh Meats and Mel’s Island for sponsoring lunch. ...
  • Three World Champions In Combined Driving
    Three World Champions In Combined Driving Featured In Clinic in Ocala For A Great Cause http://www.horsesdaily.com/article/three-world-champions-combined-driving-featured-clinic-ocala-great-cause
  • 2nd Annual – Day of Clinics with Champions
    Dear USDFD Member, The 2nd Annual “Day of Clinics with Champions” will be held on Jan.10 in Ocala, Florida as a benefit for USDFD. For each participant the event will contribute $25 to USDFD in support of Team USA! Clinicians will be Koos de Ronde, Suzy Stafford and Thorsten Zamerbowicz. In addition a marathon safety talk ...
  • Congratulations to Kiera Robinson for winning iPad raffle!
    Congratulations to Kiera Robinson who won the IPad raffle. We hope she enjoys it. We thank everyone who has supported TEAM USA by purchasing tickets.
  • Sidelines Magazine – Para-Equestrians Driving on the Scene
    Sidelines Magazine – Para-Equestrians Driving on the Scene
  • DrivingNews USA – Listings of driving competitions
    We are adding an additional link to Driving News. This web site contains listing of current and future driving competitions. And other news of common interest to drivers. Be sure to visit the web site. They will try to include para equestrian events in their news Blog. http://drivingnews.us/
  • Para-Equestrian Developing Driver Clinic a Roaring Success
    Para-Equestrian Developing Driver Clinic a Roaring Success Lodi, Calif. – October 21, 2013- United States Driving for the Disabled presented another exciting clinic for Para-Drivers October 9-13, 2013. Held during the the Shady Oaks Combined Driving Event (CDE) in Lodi, Calif., six Para-Equestrian drivers were given the opportunity to clinic with top professional
  • Diane Kastama interview on Driving Radio show
  • Para-Equestrian Developing Drivers clinic at Shady Oaks
    United States Driving for Disabled, Inc. Para-Equestrian Developing Drivers clinic to be held at Shady Oaks during the CDE Oct 9-13. Contact Diane Kastama on her FB or the USDFD FB for more information. Shady Oaks Clinic Flyer Clinicians: Fritz Grupe, Represented USA in the FEI World Pairs, host and builder of California’s premier Combined Driving event ...
  • CDE was held at the Sargent Equestrian Center
    A CDE was held at the Sargent Equestrian Center near Lodi. Three drivers with disabilities were entered. Diane Kastama one of the drivers with disabilities is shown in Obstacle 2. Ginny Leal and Stephanie Putnum were the other two with Disabilities.
  • Interview with Stefanie Putnam
    United States Driving for the Disabled interview with Stefanie Putnam. Driving Hope Forward presented by USDFD. On stie and Post-Production by: Equine Video Productions.
  • New Para-Equestrian Driver in the USA!!!
    Gayla welcomes our new Para Equestrian student Terinda Joy Bates from Ekron, KY. Terinda is a devoted lover of horses and a competent Dressage rider. Due to unfortunate health reasons and riding no longer an option, Terinda is now exploring the competitive world of Carriage Driving. I first met Terinda through our friend Windy Kilgore ...
  • Upcoming P.A.T.H. Kentucky State Meeting
    Natalie Hall, P.A.T.H. Kentucky State Representative from Independence KY, and Betty Ortlieb, USDF Judge from Foster, KY meet with Debbie to discuss the upcoming P.A.T.H. Kentucky State meeting. The P.A.T.H. International abbreviation stands for the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship. There are 165 P.A.T.H. Certified Therapeutic Instructors in the state of Kentucky with only 7 ...
  • Free Para-Equestrian Developing Driver Clinic August 10-11, 2013
    United States Driving for the Disabled, Inc Presents Free Para-Equestrian Developing Driver Clinic Sponsored by the USPEA and USEF August 10-11, 2013 Howell, NJ-August 5, 2013- United States Driving for the Disabled, Inc. (USDFD) will host a free driving clinic at Celtic Charms Therapeutic Horsemanship in Howell, NJ on August 10-11, 2013.
  • ADS wheelhouse special edition on driving with a disability
    The ADS wheelhouse has a special edition on driving with a disability. Click on Link below. http://www.americandrivingsociety.org/newsletter/13_WH_JUL.pdf
  • World Championships 2014 and 2015 and World Cup Final 2014 allocated. Para Driving included
    The FEI has allocated the following Championships and World Cup Fina during their Bureau meeting today: 2014: FEI World Cup™ Driving and Vaulting Finals, Bordeaux (FRA), 8-9 February for Driving and 7-8 February for Vaulting 2014: FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championship for Singles, Sandringham (GBR), 27-29 June 2015: FEI World Driving Championship for Ponies, Four in Hand, Pairs ...
  • HRN Features Para-Driver Diane Kastama, Driver Keady Cadwell, and Evin Rattner of DevonWood Equestrian Center
    Thousand Oaks, CA-June 27, 2013- Horse Radio Network’s once-a-month Para-Equestrian Show featured both Para-Dressage and Para-Driving on Thursday, June 27. Lindsay McCall from the USPEA co-hosted the show with Para-Equestrian Driver Diane Kastama. Evin Rattner, who helped run the 2012 U.S. Paralympic Selection Trials and has worked multiple Para-Dressage shows, spoke with Kastama and McCall ...
  • PARAGRAPHS Newsletter Summer 2013
    Spring is technically almost over although the weather for some of us certainly doesn’t indicate that it is. On the west coast it is show season with Vineyard Classic in May, Summer Festival in June, the CDE at Inavale in July, Equestrian Institute in August, and ending with Shady Oaks in October. While we are fitting our horses, learning ...
  • Free Para-Equestrian Developing Driver Clinic August 10-11
    Sponsored by the USPEA and USEF Howell, NJ-June 7, 2013– United States Driving for the Disabled,  Inc. (USDFD) will host a free driving clinic at Celtic Charms Therapeutic Horsemanship in Howell, NJ on August 10-11, 2013. Sponsors for the Para-Equestrian Developing Driver Clinic include the United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA) and United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). The  ...
  • Para-Equestrian Developing Drivers Clinics – July 12,13,14
    The CDE at Inavale in Oregon is hosting a judge’s critique of Dressage for the para-equestrian drivers that will be competing there. Judges Debbie Banfield–past president of USDFD and current board member, Boots Wright–last year’s chef d equipe at the para-equestrian world championships in Breda, and Mike McLennan will discuss…
  • USDFD and Celtic Charms – August 10,11
    USDFD and Celtic Charms Therapuetic Horsemanship center in Howell, NJ, and Ann Miles of the Carriage Barn in New Hampshire are hosting a developing drivers clinic. This clinic will be modeled after the successful March clinic held in Moorpark , CA . Sara Schmitt will be the clinician. Sara is a USEF ...
  • From Jumpers To Carriage Driving: Stefanie Putnam
    Great article on one of our para-equestrian drivers. http://www.proequest.com/news/2013/05/23/from-jumpers-to-carriage-driving-stefanie-putnam-s-inner-light-and-guiding-shadow
  • Article in the Ventura star on the USDFD clinic
    Article in the Ventura star on the USDFD clinic in Moorpark, it was published April 5th. Riders learn carriage driving at moorpark farm
  • Para-Equestrians Paul Roberti and Sara St. Peter
    Para-Equestrians Paul Roberti and Sara St. Peter competed the weekend of May 11 in the GMHA 2-Phase and Arena Driving Trial. Congratulations on a job well done!
  • The vineyard Classic CDE
    The vineyard Classic CDE held at the Woodland Stallion Station was special this year. Five persons with disability and members of  US Driving For Disabled (USDFD) competed. Ginny Leal competed Training Level. Tracy Bowman and Stephenie Putnam competed at the Preliminary Level. Bev White competed at the Intermediate Level. Diane Kastama competed at the Advanced ...
  • Articles on the Clinic at Moorepark
    Go to the USDFD Facebook page and see articles on the Clinic we ran in Moorepark in the Ventura Star and also Community Link ,page 8 or 9, serving Ventura county. Article and photos of the March 16,17th clinic that was held in Moorpark , CA by USDFD. http://www.vcstar.com/news/2013/apr/05/riders-learn-carriage-driving-at-moorpark-farm
  • Presentation at the “Spirit of the West” Symposium
    April 11, Thursday, Diane Kastama gave a presentation at the “Spirit of the West” Symposium held at the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum and Carriage House. The symposium ran from April 10 to April 13 and covered US history of the carriage and wagon. Subjects included Construction, Cooking on the Trail, Business, and Diane’s ...
  • Germany and Great Britain have put in bids for the 2014
    Two candidates, Germany and Great Britain, have put in bids for the 2014 Para-Equestrian Champianship http://www.hoefnet.nl/en/home/site/news/two-candidates-for-world-para-driving-championships-2014
  • Press release from the United States Para-Equestrian Association
    To see the latest press release from the United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA),please visit http://dressageradio.horseradionetwork.com/2013/03/27/dressage-radio-episode-200-para-dressage-with-tina-wentz-and-derrick-perkins/ Horse Radio Network will dedicate one session a month regarding para-equestrians to sometimes include Driving. Some of you remember Horse Radio covering Team 2012 at Breda, The Netherlands. Radio show host Wendy stayed with the team through training and competition. These radio ...
  • Margie Margentino and Kay Birkholt visited the Gayla Driving Center
    For a power packed 2 days of lessons in preparation to learn more about Therapeutic Driving. The Lord Stirling Stable /Somerset County Park Commission from Basking Ridge, NJ are in the development stages of adding a Therapeutic Driving program to their existing equine operation.
  • Successful para-equestrian driving clinic
    Press release on our very successful para-equestrian driving clinic. http://uspea.org/march-23-2013-para-equestrian-developing-driver-clinic-presented-by-united-states-driving-for-the-disabled-march-16-17-featured-top-clinicians/
  • The 10th Annual Silent Auction
    The 10th annual silent auction to benefit the US Driving for the Disable program will be taking place on May 18 during the banquet of the Gayla Bluegrass CDE.  All items donations can be sent to the Gayla Driving Center, c/o USDFD, 3329 Cynthiana Road, Georgetown, KY 40324  This information will also be added to ...
  • Shriner’s Hospital for Kids Camp
    The dates for this year’s Shriner’s Hospital for kids camp is  June 17-21, 2013.  This will be the eight consecutive year we have held the driving camp for all the kids at Shriner’s.
  • Blackhorse for heroes Inc.
    Brad Bertele is President of Blackhorse for heroes Inc. Brad has developed a successful Carriage Driving program for veterans of any disability. There is no charge to the veteran and they have found it works, especially well with PTSD. They plan on having 3 turnouts by this summer with 9 veterans competing in CDEs and… ...
  • Para-Equestrian Developing Driver Clinic – March 16,17
    March 16,17 2013, Oak Run Farm – Moorpark,CA 93021 Clinicians: Hardy Zantke, ADS & USEF “R” Combined Driving Judge, FEI Combined Driving Judge and Para-Equestrian Judge. Competed in pairs and 4-in -hands; served as Chef d’ Equipe for many USA teams….
  • Para-drivers from Belgium, Germany, Holland and the USA
    Para-drivers from Belgium, Germany, Holland and the USA are already showing interest in competing at the CAIB ‘World Championships warm-up event’ at Sandringham in 2013. Organisers of the annual National Driving Trials at the venue are hoping to host the Para-Drivers’ World Championships in 2014. For more info go to the following site: http://www.hoefnet.nl/en/home/site/news/international-para-drivers-show-early-interest-in-sandringham
  • Diane Kastama put on a demonstration on behalf of USDFD
    Diane Kastama put on a demonstration on behalf of USDFD at the Las Vegas South Point Casino Pleasure Show, October 20,21. Diane Driver, Rupert and Heather Hills Lloyd George Horses, and Jody Cutler and Kelly Kastama Grooms. Photo by Rick Osteen.
  • Winner of the harness raffle Photo
    “Took me long enough but I finally got a photo for you. We tried to make it appear that Sunny was harnessed to the cart but he’s not. He’s only 17 months old. However, I did ground drive him and he did really well for his first time. I’m not complaining. We also had the ...
  • Driving Radio Show Episode 61
    Wendy’s European Adventure and Josh Rector http://www.drivingradioshow.com Wendy accompanied TEAM USA to The Netherlands and helped as one of the team. Listen to her report, read reports she sent back to the station and enjoy the pictures. She also interviewed Josh Rector, Diane Kastama’s Gator in the Marathon.
  • Closing ceremonies and heading home
    CLOSING CEREMONIES AND HEADING HOME (byWendy Ying). Sunday came and went so quickly! Coach Keady headed out to the barn @ 6 to braid the horses then cones were open for walking from 8-9 am for the para drivers, then closed to any vehicles for the last 30 minutes for the 4 in hands. The athletes ...
  • Final Results
    Final results – The Netherlands in First, followed by Germany Second, Great Britain Third, USA Fourth, and Ireland Fifth. Diane Kastama ended in 14th place as an individual, Pam Johnson in 19th place, and Karen Gorham in 21st place. First place individual went to Heiner Lehter of Germany, Second place to Jacques Poppenof The Netherlands, ...
  • CDE news and Additional info
    CDE news. Additional info on TEAM USA in Breda can be accessed from the following web sites; http://sportcob.com http://drivingradioshow.com
  • CDE results with pictures and video
    CDE results with copywrighted pictures and video can be found at the following web site usually within hours of completion of a test. Remember to go to the USDFD Facebook page for more pictures and up-to-date info. http://www.hoefnet.nl/nl/home/site/foto+album/breda-2012-veterinaire-keuring-fotos-met-dank-aan-marie-de-ronde The Netherlands (238 points)have maintained their First Place position with Germany (244) a close Second, and Great Britain ...
  • The Dressage scores are in
    The Dressage scores are in. The Netherlands is in First (75.4 points), followed by Germany (95.2), Great Britain (114.2), USA (124.0), and Ireland (132.4). The Netherlands and Germany got the top 9 out of ten top scores in Dressage. The USA individuals placed 13th (Diane Kastama), 19th (Pam Johnson), and 21st (Karen Gorham). Denmark and ...
  • Diane & Pepper are doing great & she is wonderful!!!
    Tuesday our entourage left the de Ronde’s for Breda with 3 horse vans,13 horses, 11 carriages, an army of people and Pepper of course. Both Koos and his brother Peter are showing at Breda as it is also the Dutch national 4 in hand championships. It is an hour drive to the show. Marie ...
  • Wendy Ying, who is she?
    Wendy Ying, who is she? She’s not a driver,or groom (more on this later), or official. She is, though, Co-Host of the Driving Radio Show of the Horse Radio Network, http:drivingradioshow.horseradionetwork.com . Horse Radio Network will feature Team USA on its show so tune in maybe starting as late as next Tuesday. She is ...
  • Team USA leaves Marie & Koos de Ronde’s stables for Breda
    Team USA leaves Marie & Koos de Ronde’s stables for Breda today. Diane Kastama, Pam Johnson and Karen Gorham have been training & getting familiar with their borrowed horses for the last week with the help of team coach, Keady Cadwell & chef d’equipe, Boots Wright. Marie and Koos have provided wonderful horses with accomplished show ...
  • The FEI has allocated the World Para Equestrian Driving Championships
    (Taken from the Outdoor Brabant website) The FEI has allocated the FEI World Para Equestrian Driving Championships for singles 2012 to the Netherlands. The World Championship will take place during the international event Outdoor Brabant that will take place from 30 August to 2 September at the Prinsenhoeve Estate in Breda. Outdoor Brabant has become, over ...
  • Team USA is through with their 10 days of Training
    Team USA is through with their 10 days of Training and are packing up to go to the competition grounds on Tuesday, August 28. Dressage will be on Thursday, Friday is a day off, Saturday Marahon, and Sunday Cones.We will keep you up to date with pictures and standings on this web site and ...
  • Team USA is having a great time training at Koos de Ronde’s stable
    From Diane Kastama; Team USA is having a great time training at Koos de Ronde’s stable. Marie de Ronde and Koos have been very hospitable. We are all setup in one area of his barn, we have harness racks, grooming equipment, carriages and harness at our fingertips. Keady has been training us hard in dressage, ...
  • Team USA is at the halfway point
    Team USA is at about the halfway point in the Training program, concentrating on getting to know the equines and Dressage. They will now concentrate on the Cones obstacles. I’ve included addditional pictures of the drivers, Villa, and Pepper, tired after worrying all day where Diane was.
  • TEAM USA is in The Netherlands
    TEAM USA is in The Netherlands and has started 10 days of training with their leased horses. They are staying at the Villas Stal De Ronde. Team USA picture includes Keady Cadwell-Coach, Pam Johnson-Driver, Diane Kastama-Driver, Jody Cutler-Groom, Karen Gorham-Driver, Bill Gorham-Groom, and Pepper-helper dog. Pam’s groom and Diane’s Marathon Groom will arrive for ...
  • Stephanie Putnam on Cover of The Whip Magazine
    Stephanie Putnam is on the cover of The Whip, magazine of the American Driving Society. A well written article featuring Stephanie is inside.
  • A fundraiser for USDFD
    A fundraiser for USDFD was held at Equestrian’s Institute Combined Driving Event, Aug 3-5 in Ethel,WA. A highlight of the CDE and part of the fundraiser was a golf cart race between judges. A third driver position was auctioned. Thanks to Bev White who suggested the race.
  • USPEA Report on Team USA
    The United States Para Equestrian Association http://uspea.org/july-26-2012-united-states-para-equestrian-driving-team-prepares-for-2012-world-driving-championships/ has released a report on the Team USA effort along with bios of the three drivers who will compete. Diane Kastama, Pam Johnson, and Karen Gorham are the team members that will compete in the games at Breda, The Netherlands.
  • Drawing for the harness conducted
    The drawing for the harness was conducted at the Duck Club CDE in Oxnard, CA with Hardy Zanke drawing the winning ticket. Hardy was head judge at the 27-29 July CDE. Hardy had stated that he had bought one ticket and if he drew it he would discard it and draw the winning ticket. This ...
  • Nominated Entries have been submitted
    Nominated Entries have been submitted for the World Championships. Diane Kastama, Arroyo Grande, CA – Pam Johnson Pleasant Hill MO and Karen Gorham , Burnet Texas. http://www.hippobase.com/EventInfo/Entries/CompetitorHorse.aspx?EventID=900&lang=en&EntryGroupIDs=CH-PE-A1&Submit=OK&ShowCompetitors=on&ShowHorses=on&HorsesCompact=on
  • Two para equestrians competed at the Clay Station Horse Park
    Two para equestrians competed at the Clay Station Horse Park, owned by Stan and Debbie Packard, in Wilton, CA June 22, 23, 24 2012. Tracy Bowman entered in the single pony training class. Diane Kastama entered in the single horse intermediate. Tracy competed against two other drivers getting first place in Dressage but E’d ...
  • High Performance: Para-Equestrian Discipline – usef.org
    Please contact Regina Cristo at [email protected] if you’re interested in volunteering during the Para Equestrian National Championship/Paralympic Selection Trial.
  • Application deadline for Team USA is July 2nd
    Application deadline for Team USA is July 2nd. Fill out application with fillable forms and email them in. http://www.usef.org
  • Keady Cadwell Interviewed by Horse Radio
    Keady Cadwell, coach for the USDFD team competing for the World Championship in Greben The Netherlands, is interviewed by Horse Radio Network and can be accessed at: http://drivingradioshow.horseradionetwork.com/ – Driving Radio Show Episode 48. Keady is interviewed on selection of a young drivinng horse and USDFD driving.
  • Team USA on California TV!
    Team USA got some Central Coast California TV time. See it at http://www.ksby.com/player/?video_id=19226
  • Interview with Radio KVEC Talk Show!
    Diane Kastama had an interview with Radio KVEC Talk Show host Dave Congalton on 5/14/2012. This station is local to Central California. They discussed carriage driving, the USDFD, and Diane’s bid to be on the team in the Netherlands. They also talked fund raising. It should be on the stations PODCAST. The web site is ...
  • Spirit Horse Therapy Cruise fundraiser
    Spirit Horse Therapy Cruise fundraiser, June 18-21 Spirit Horse therapy is hosting a fund raiser cruise aboard the Carnival Triumph. This cruise will depart from Galveston and visit Cozumel and Progresso. Please visit their web site for further information about the cruise and program. http://www.spirithorsetherapy.com/
  • Gorham working on qualifying for Para-Equestrian team
    WINDSOR — Karen Gorham is one of the drivers working with clinician Hardy Zantke this weekend at Salute to Driving, a United States Equestrian Federation benefit supporting the high performance driving program. The Texan, who competes with a prosthetic left arm, arrived in Aiken County a few days after Christmas and has been working with Shepherd’s ...
  • Team USA Fundraiser
    Please help us reach our goal Click to donate today!! Team USA Fund
  • Team USA Harness Raffle
    United States Driving for the Disabled Team USA Harness Raffle! Countryside Manufacturing has generously donated a Comfy Fit Harness to be raffled off in support of USEF’s Team USA. The harness is made of a durable synthetic material and is padded with an extra soft pebble leather or vinyl that is wrapped around a soft ...
  • Raise funds just by using Goodsearch
    Did you know you can raise funds just by using Goodsearch? Do you use Southern States grain? These are just two ways you can help USDFD through tasks you probably perform already! Goodsearch is an internet search engine much like Google that donates a penny for every search through sponsorships and advertisements. If ...
  • Message from Past President
    Sustainability is a very important topic. With an eye on sustainability, we can ensure that programs continue to provide the life-changing opportunities for the children and adults who seek our services for as long as they are needed. The success of an association is built upon the participation of its membership, particularly in ...
  • USDFD’S OPEN FORUM MEETING
    USDFD’s Board of Trustees holds it’s meetings via conference calls on the 3rd Wednesday of every month.
  • PATH / USDFD WORKSHOP
    PATH / Usdfd Workshop Certification Clinic A Huge Success! Annual Usdfd Board Of Trustees Meeting November 5-9 2011.
  • USDFD & PATH COLLABORATE
    Collaborate = working together to create a higher outcome. For the first time after many years our two organizations have come together so the needs of both parties are served and respected. USDFD hosted a PATH Workshop / Certification Clinic on October 22-26, 2009. Tina Bennet, head PATH evaluator, mentioned that it was the largest ...