Disabled dressage star Nicola Tustain can now look forward to the 2008 Paralympic Games after finding a new equine partner, Rivaldo of Berkeley.
The nine-year-old Oldenburg was purchased for Nicola by The Berkeley Group after her former Paralympic horse Prinz Heinrich, also owned by The Berkley Group, went lame. Nicola previously won three gold and three bronze medals for Britain at the Sydney and Athens Games.
The Berkeley Group managing director Tony Pidgley says: “We really admire Nicola’s tenacity and determination and we’re delighted to be supporting her in purchasing a second horse. Nicola’s commitment is commendable and she is a tremendous role model. We look forward to continuing our partnership with her.”
Rivaldo of Berkeley has settled in well to his new home, according to Nicola, who is focusing on Paralympics GB team selection.
“He is bringing something new and special with every training session,” she says. “He is a pleasure to ride, shows great enthusiasm in his work and gives me more and more confidence every day. He has a great character.”
