Meet the Coaches – BC Summer Games

Many of our para-equestrian riders participating in the BC Summer Games are doing so under the leadership of the Manestream team of coach Stella French (pictured right) and assistant coach Kim Scott (pictured left). We would like to introduce you to them both.

Stella French – Head Coach

When she was 16, Stella started volunteering at the Powell River Therapeutic Riding Association after they put out a call for volunteers as a new program. She continued to gain experience and passion for therapeutic riding and pursued certification as an instructor. She was influenced by Rachel Brameld from the Victoria Therapeutic riding group to achieve her certification with CanTRA to teach people with disabilities. Looking ahead to the BC Games Stella know one of the many challenges for the riders will be experiencing all of the ‘extras’ that come along with such a big multi-sport event, such as big facility’s and long waits in line while managing the fatigue that they may have due to their disability.  Stella hopes that each rider would have a fantastic time participating with so many other athletes from around the province.

Kim Scott – Assistant Coach

Kim’s passion for Parasport is close to home, beginning her riding journey as a therapeutic riding student when she was 11. Growing up in and around the therapeutic riding community, she saw how riding could impact so many people’s lives in very positive ways. Kim achieved her certification with the Certified Horsemanship Association in 2017 and has enjoyed coaching a vast range of riders in the past year. Kim is also a past BC Games competitor and is currently on the Para-Equestrian Canada Talent ID Squad. She knows the riders, like every competitor, will face some challenges at the BC Games such as keeping focused over such a big, long event with many extras that are not usually at a dressage competition, such as the opening ceremonies, vet check, accommodation and more! Kim hopes even with the challenges and differences each athlete will learn as much as they can throughout the week, and enjoy every moment no matter the results!