A PARA dressage rider from south Warwickshire has brought home a silver medal.
Sara Bates, who lives in Alcester, has returned from Doha after an emotional runner-up finish at the prestigious CHI Al Shaqab competition in Qatar.
Competing in the Grade IV classes for Great Britain, Sara described the opportunity to travel to Doha with her 17-year-old home-bred mare Tango as a “dream come true”.
The duo delivered a standout performance in Freestyle, finishing second to current FEI world number one Grade IV rider Kate Shoemaker (USA). Riding to music from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Sara and Tango earned an impressive score of 68.792 per cent, securing the runner-up ribbon and a memorable podium finish.
She said: “I came out of the arena in tears. I knew it was a good test, but when it was confirmed that we’d finished second behind the world number one, it was just overwhelming. To stand on that podium representing Great Britain is something I’ll never forget.”
The three-day competition consisted of two straight tests – set floor plans judged movement by movement – followed by the Freestyle, where riders design their own choreography to music. Sara placed fourth on the opening day and fifth on day two before climbing the leaderboard in the final Freestyle to secure second in the Freestyle standings.
Her performance marked a strong early-season statement and earned valuable world ranking points as she continues her international campaign.
Sara, who manages multiple sclerosis alongside elite sport, said the experience in Doha was exceptional both on and off the arena surface.
She continued: “We were looked after so well. The whole atmosphere was supportive and uplifting – exactly what para sport should be. Everyone congratulates each other and celebrates good performances. It’s competitive, but it’s also respectful.”
Now back home, Sara is already planning ahead. The Doha result strengthens her position in the world rankings and enhances her prospects for future international selection. She is also keen to use her platform to promote awareness of hidden disabilities and encourage others not to give up on their ambitions.
Sara will continue her 2026 season in the UK while exploring further international opportunities with Tango.
