Versailles, France – At the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team etched their names in history by clinching their second consecutive Paralympic team medal, achieving a groundbreaking team gold. The team, composed of Rebecca Hart and Floratina (Grade III), Fiona Howard and Diamond Dunes (Grade II), and Roxanne Trunnell and Fan Tastico H (Grade I), delivered outstanding performances, each scoring 77% or higher in the FEI Grand Prix Test B. Their combined score of 235.567 not only secured the gold but also marked the highest Paralympic team score ever recorded in para-equestrian history.


“This achievement is the realization of a long-term, meticulously planned vision that began at Tryon 2018, where we first initiated significant changes,” said Chef d’Equipe Michel Assouline. “After winning bronze in Tokyo, I had a clear strategy to earn a team medal in Paris. I envisioned gold for this Games, and here we are. It’s an incredible accomplishment for everyone who has been involved in this program over the years.”


Roxanne Trunnell (Royal Palm Beach, Fla.) and Fan Tastico H kicked off the U.S. team’s performance. Although still a new partnership, having only joined forces in early 2024, Trunnell and Fan Tastico H delivered a solid score of 77.000%. The 2017 Oldenburg gelding, owned by Karin Flint and managed by Rafael Hernandez-Carillo, demonstrated his capabilities with a strong walk performance under Trunnell’s guidance.


“I focused on maintaining his steady rhythm,” said Trunnell. “At just seven years old, he’s improving rapidly.” She credited Chef d’Equipe Michel Assouline for his role in the team’s progress and success. “Michel’s discipline and experience have been crucial in getting us prepared.”


Fiona Howard (Boston, Mass.) and Diamond Dunes, a 2013 Hanoverian gelding owned by Dressage Family LLC and Hof Kasselmann, continued to shine in Grade II as Paralympic debutants. They achieved an impressive 80%, the highest score of the week across all grades, setting another personal best.


“When we started trotting, I could tell he felt fantastic,” Howard shared. “Trusting him was key, and he delivered. It’s been a remarkable experience.” Howard highlighted the extensive support from the team, both in Paris and at home, attributing their success to the collective effort. “Our support network, from trainers to federations, has been phenomenal, and Michel’s coaching has been integral to our success.”


Rebecca Hart (Wellington, Fla.) and Floratina, the most seasoned pair on the team, were pivotal in securing the gold after a tight contest with a strong Dutch team. Hart and the 2008 Hanoverian mare, owned by Rowan O’Riley and cared for by Mackenzie Young, achieved their second personal best score of the Games with 78.567%, sealing the U.S. team’s gold medal.


“This victory feels surreal,” Hart said. “It’s the culmination of years of hard work, and I’m incredibly proud of everyone involved. It took a team effort to achieve this.”


Hart also expressed hopes that this success would boost recognition and equality for para-equestrian disciplines. “I hope this achievement brings greater acknowledgment and support for our sport, leading to more opportunities and growth in the future.”