An opportunity of a lifetime has come on the path of Gary Allpass – the chance to participate in the 2025 South African Dressage Championships.
He will be taking part in the Para Dressage, but in order to make this he needs R50 000 which will cover accommodation, entry and travel costs.
His love for horses started at the early age of three. “When I had to do my conscription in the army for two years in 1981, I was accepted into the South African Defence Force Equestrian Centre in Potchefstroom and my love for Dressage started there as I learnt the intricacies of what Dressage was all about,” says Allpass.
Taking part in the championships, Allpass says he looks forward to showing people how one can overcome all hardships and death experiences as he has lived 34 years with HIV/Aids.
Allpass shared that he finds that people have a lack of understanding of what a para-rider struggles with. “A lot of people see me walking with my crutches and don’t understand how come I am a para athlete. The original AIDS drug AZT destroyed the nerves in my legs and feet so I cannot feel from my knees downwards and don’t have control of my lower legs. I have overcome this by learning to ride with biomechanics which is taking the equestrian world by storm as the see what para riders are capable of achieving.”
Staying motivated and determined has brought Allpass to where he is today.
In the championship, Allpass will be riding a horse which belongs to Anelle Traut in Vredenburg and bred by her mother Elmarie de Clerck. “My words for other disabled riders is to come forward and to make yourself visible, find a coach who understands the disabilities and can help them achieve the goals.
Should you wish to contribute contact Allpass on 079 649 7366 or De Clerck on 084 240 3560.
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