Riding Against The Odds: My Journey As A Para Dressage Rider With EDS

In the world of para-dressage, where resilience and determination reign supreme, one athlete’s journey stands out as a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who overcome adversity. This is the story of how Victoria Hoban found her way into the world of para-dressage, battled Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and encountered a surprising hurdle on the path to her Paralympic dreams.

Finding sanctuary through riding

My journey into horseback riding was a lifeline, born from a tumultuous childhood in foster care. Horses became my sanctuary, offering solace and healing from the abuse I endured. It wasn’t just a pastime, it was a means to heal and grow. Little did I know that horses would save my life countless times, proving to be a powerful therapy for both my physical and mental health.

Horses in my bloodline

Despite not hailing from a privileged background, I discovered that horses were in my bloodline. My great-grandfather was a horse-driven coalman, and his unwavering passion for these magnificent creatures passed through generations to my grandfather and then to me. Together, we immersed ourselves in the world of horse racing, studying every detail. It was during these formative years that I gained insights into a horse’s movements and the profound impact of trainers and jockeys.

From show jumping to dressage

My dreams of becoming a show jumper were abruptly dashed at the age of 17 when a fall from a horse resulted in a devastating fractured lower back. This incident led me to make a solemn pact with myself never to jump again. It was then that I fell in love with dressage, a discipline that proved to be more mentally stimulating and challenging.

The struggle with EDS and my journey as a para dressage rider

My battle with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a connective tissue disorder, remained silent for most of my life until a recent diagnosis. EDS left no part of my body untouched. My bones dislocated with ease, and I now rely solely on a wheelchair for mobility. The condition’s pervasive effects are relentless and life-altering.

Support from Para Equestrian Ireland

While undergoing investigations into my condition, I approached Para Equestrian Ireland for support. I received immense encouragement from the esteemed Sue Murphy, who kindly guided me along the way and helped me connect with the equestrian community. I was later introduced to Lucinda Houston Blackiston, whose unwavering support enabled me to travel from the UK to Ireland for the Necarne training camp, where classification with Paralympics Ireland took place.

A heartbreaking encounter with IPC guidelines

However, my journey took an unexpected turn during the classification process. I walked into the room with high hopes, only to be told that I wouldn’t even be assessed due to the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) guidelines. These guidelines specifically exclude individuals with an EDS diagnosis, citing only its hypermobile elements. This decision left me feeling excluded and unseen, evoking painful memories of past gaslighting and discrimination.

The dreams for Los Angeles 2028

My initial intention wasn’t to compete in Paris next year, but rather to aim for the Paralympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028. Having lived in North America, competing in a place I call home would be a sensational dream come true.

The impact on fellow Paralympic athletes

Upon returning home and sharing my story with fellow Paralympic athletes who also have EDS, outrage was the collective sentiment. Their dreams, too, had been crushed by the IPC’s decision. I’ve used social media to highlight the journey of a para dressage rider with EDS, sparking passionate discussions, particularly on platforms like TikTok. Unfortunately, as with many disability-related issues, there has been little interest in this critical debate.

The importance of classification

Being classified is not only essential for my safety in the sport but also to establish my place within the para-equestrian community. The selective discrimination within this community, based on IPC guidelines, creates unnecessary divides among athletes who share the same goal. It’s disheartening to see a body that champions equality fall short in practice.

The Ehlers-Danlos Society, an organisation that supports people living with EDS, has shared its opinions on the IPC’s decision, highlighting that EDS is not just about hypermobility but has a range of other symptoms including joint pain, arthritis, muscle pain, dislocations, heart valve problems and fragile blood vessels, which can meet the impairment criteria of the IPC.

Hopes for the future for para-dressage riders with EDS

My journey as a para dressage rider with EDS is marked by determination, resilience, and a burning desire to challenge stereotypes and discrimination. Through sharing my story, I hope to prompt a review of the IPC policy, fostering greater inclusivity and understanding within the para-sports community.

In a world that should champion equality and diversity, it’s time for the para-sports community to reflect these values fully and truly embrace all para-athletes.

You can continue to follow Victoria Hoban’s journey as a para dressage rider on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. 

Provide dedicated funding for diagnosis/treatment of hypermobile EDS and HSD

Ehlers-Danlos Support UK is calling for dedicated funding for the diagnosis/treatment of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorder. Currently, patients only get symptom management and the charity believes this should change. It needs 100,000 signatures by November to have this petition debated in Parliament.

Sign Ehlers-Danlos Support UK’s Enough Is Enough petition online. 

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