My Story

My name is Holly Bergay. I am in the Ninth grade at Sabino High School in Tucson, Arizona. I was born with one hand. My left arm ends about three inches below my elbow. When I was born my parents were really afraid for me. They knew how hard it would be to be “different” in today’s world. 

When I was three years old they put me on a horse and by the time I was seven I was competing in local horse shows on my Arabian gelding “Ambition.” Ambition and I went on to win numerous high point championships, all against “able-bodied” riders. On the back of my horse I wasn’t a “disabled” kid, I was a talented athlete. 

I compete in an Equestrian sport called Dressage. It is a form of English riding that is meant to demonstrate the horse’s obedience and training, while maintaining “harmony between horse and rider.” I have been training in Dressage since I was about six years old.

My dream is to compete in the World Equestrian Games in 2010, the North American Young Rider's Championships, and the 2012 Paralympic Games. For those who may be unfamiliar with the Paralympic Games, they are a full Olympic Games for Disabled Athletes. They are always held two weeks following the Olympic Games in the same locations utilizing the same venues. These athletes are at the highest levels of their respective sports. 

 I am very competitive and determined, and if there is something I may not be able to do, I find a way to do it. I have never thought of myself as “disabled” or let my “difference” affect me or stop me from doing what I want to do. If I limit myself then how can I expect others not to limit me? That’s why it’s so important for me to make it to the Paralympics, to show people that they can do anything they want if they don’t limit themselves.

Making the United States Paralympic team is just one of my first goal. I plan on being the first “disabled” athlete to make the United States Equestrian Team. To qualify for the Paralympics I have to earn qualifying scores nationally and internationally. I have been recognized as a prospect for future Paralympic games by the United States Olympic Committee and the United States Equestrian Federation.

Not only does all this require a lot of hard work and training but it is also very expensive. From travel fees to my equipment to just keeping a horse, my parents have sacrificed so much to help me reach my goal. I have also received tons of support from friends and family who have started the “Holly Bergay Para-Equestrian Fund.”   

It is my goal to go as far as I can in the sport of dressage to set an example and hopefully inspire both disabled and able bodied athletes to never limit themselves or let others limit them. If you want something bad enough you have to do whatever it takes and never give up. If I am able to inspire even just one person it would be worth all the hard work and sacrifice. Please join the growing list of supporters and help me make my dream come true.