Bella wins gold at the Special Olympics

CALVERT equestrian Bella Barrett won two gold medals at the 2023 Special Olympic World Games in Berlin.

One gold was won in Dressage, the other in Equitation.

The Special Olympics is the world’s largest inclusive sporting event. This year, it was held from June 17 to June 25.

Germany hosted the once-every-four-years games and welcomed more than 4,000 inspiring athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Australia’s Bella Barrett competed in three equestrian events – Dressage, English Trail and Equitation.

She was selected to represent her country when she won a gold medal and two silver medals last September at the National Special Olympics in Brisbane.

Bella was elated when she heard she would ride for Australia in the Special Olympics in Berlin.

“Riding horses is what I love in life, and it is a huge honour.”

Training is an integral part of Bella’s life.

“To prepare for competitions on all levels I remain focused and train up to five days a week in an intensive regime both at home and in Brisbane with my coach, National Training Manager Gary Lung,” she said.

“Coach Gary is really great and I enjoy learning from him, he is a big support to me, along with my parents, my friends and my family, I am very grateful.

“I am so proud to have been selected to represent my country.”

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