The Goulburn Valley rider will head to the host city of Aachen, Germany to compete at the garland event between August 19 and 23, with this achievement representing a standout milestone in her inspirational story.
Heading to Europe for this landmark occasion, she is expected to take part in a three-week staging camp in the Netherlands before heading to Aachen for her date with destiny.
The 31-year-old has battled back from two major spinal injuries over the past decade before making the move into Grade V para equestrianism.
Alongside her trusted black Westphalian gelding Sir Helmut she has taken the discipline by storm, having been named on the Australian Para Equestrian High Performance Squad (Green Squad) in December.
Earmarked as having podium potential for the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics, she is currently ranked in the top six of the world rankings after completing what has been a staggering comeback in the saddle.
Since staging this incredible feat, she simply has not looked back and has made no secret of her desire to represent Shepparton on the biggest stage in para dressage.
“It’s so amazing to be able to do this for Shepparton and our community,” she said previously.
“It would be an incredible thought and, while I am very early on in my partnership with my horse, by the time LA comes around, hopefully our partnership will be much better (than now).
“It’s only going to get better from here, which is very exciting.”
Now, she has expressed her delight after realising her dream of competing for Australia at the World Equestrian Games.
“I really have no words ... I am honoured and so excited to have been selected on the Australian Para Dressage Team for the 2026 World Equestrian Games in Aachen, Germany,” she said.
“Firstly, congratulations to my teammates Dianne Barnes, Bridget Murphy and Lisa Martin.
“Three amazing woman who competed on the world stage at Paris 2024, I couldn’t think of a better group of people to go into my first games with.“
Taking time to thank those who have helped to get her to where she is today, Innes-Irons also expressed her gratitude towards her team, family and friends for their assistance along the way.
“To get here after only 18 months with Helmut is surreal and a testament to how incredible he is. When they say it takes a village, they’re not joking. The team involved to get me here is enormous,” she said.
Officially announcing the squad for the upcoming World Championships, the Australian Equestrian Team also congratulated those who have been selected to represent their country.
“EA Para High Performance Lead Nick Hunter described the squad as one of Australia’s most competitive para dressage teams in recent years, with three athletes ranked inside the world’s top six, including current Grade V World No.1 Lisa Martin,” they wrote.
“Congratulations to all selected athletes and support teams.”
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