Hi, I am Diane Kastama. I have been paralyzed for 34 years. I am a para-equestrian driver trying to raise money to ship my accessible carriage to the Netherlands to compete this summer. I plan on competing at the FEI Para Driving World Championships in Lahden, Germany, September 4-7, 2025. I will be leasing a horse and practicing with him for 3 weeks. Having my specially modified carriage makes the process of driving a leased horse more comfortable.

Asking people to donate money is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. I appreciate everyone's support and hope to bring home the Gold!!!

I'm heading to Europe on August 10 and my carriage has just arrived. I am so excited to further my driving skills and to bring back what I learn and share with others.

I have been competing in the sport of carriage driving for 30 years. I discovered the sport after a car accident left me paralyzed. Horses allow me to compete on an equal basis with everyone else. I share my skill and enjoyment of the sport with everyone who asks. As President of United States Driving for the Disabled, I support all people, no matter their challenges, in learning and trying the sport of carriage driving.

Special Carriage

I currently compete at the Intermediate and Advanced level on an equal basis with all drivers.

Past International competition at Para-Equestrian World Championships:

2002: Individual Silver, Team Bronze, Greven, Germany - borrowed horse

2004: 4th place finish - borrowed horse

2006: Individual Gold - my own horse

2008: Individual Bronze, Team Silver - my own horse

2012: 14th place - borrowed horse

2014: Team Bronze - my own horse

2018: Leased horse, top USA finisher

2023: Team Silver - leased horse