In a heartfelt Easter update, Liz Halliday shared encouraging news about her ongoing recovery and an inspiring new chapter in her career: a transition into Para Dressage competition.

A Return Home – and to the Saddle

After months of recovery, Halliday reports steady progress, emphasizing the emotional lift of being back at her farm. While communication remains a daily challenge, she continues to move forward with the support of her dedicated team.

One of the most meaningful milestones has been her return to riding at home three days a week. Thanks to team member Melissa—who cares for Halliday’s retired horses—Liz has been able to ride Melissa’s horse, Brewer, marking her first rides back in her own arena in quite some time.

“I can’t tell you how incredible it feels to ride in my own arena again,” she shared.

A Special Reunion: Deniro Z Returns

Another emotional highlight has been the return of Deniro Z, a horse central to Halliday’s rise in the sport. Having him back at the farm—and being able to sit on him again—has brought a renewed sense of normalcy and joy.

“Sitting on him again has been the highlight of my year,” she said, reflecting on the horse that helped launch her career to the next level.

Officially an FEI Grade 2 Para Dressage Rider

In a significant step forward, Halliday recently traveled with her husband Mark and her mother to TerraNova Equestrian Center in Florida to undergo classification for Para Dressage.

The evaluation—conducted without riding—assessed her current physical capabilities. The result: Halliday has officially been classified as an FEI Grade 2 Para Dressage athlete.

Grade 2 tests focus on walk and trot movements, with an emphasis on precision, harmony, and the horse’s quality of performance. Though the level may appear simplified, the tests are known for being long, technical, and demanding.

Halliday has already begun practicing these movements at home and is aiming for a return to competition later this year.

Finding Strength in Community

While at TerraNova, Halliday also connected with fellow Para Dressage athletes—a group she describes as resilient, welcoming, and deeply committed.

“It was an amazing feeling to be with elite athletes who are living with and overcoming the same challenges that I am.”

This sense of shared experience has further fueled her motivation as she embraces this new competitive direction.

A New Chapter Begins

For Halliday, Para Dressage represents not just a return to sport—but a reinvention of her competitive path. With determination, gratitude, and the support of her team and community, she is stepping forward with optimism.

“This is an exciting new direction in my career, and I’m so happy to be able to compete again. Onward and upward!”

About Para Dressage:

Para Dressage is the only equestrian discipline included in the Paralympic Games, governed internationally by the Fédération Équestre Internationale. Riders are classified into grades based on functional ability, ensuring fair competition across a range of physical challenges.