We are here at the CHIO Aachen, the second Major of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. How special is it to compete here?

The CHIO Aachen is the most prestigious show in the world, and it is always a privilege to ride here. The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Majors are incredibly important in our sport and really represent the pinnacle of show jumping. When you come to the CHIO Aachen you want to have the right horses who are in the peak condition. I have had the opportunity to ride here a few times now, and the experience is still so amazing. The sport is top-class with challenging, technical courses, the best riders from around the world, and the finest horses. It represents what show jumping is all about.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and what is the best advice you have ever received?

That is a difficult question as I have been fortunate to work with so many incredible horsemen and mentors throughout my career. Now, I am lucky to have the guidance and friendship of Hans Horn, who is not only a phenomenal horseman but someone I greatly respect.

If I had to choose one piece of advice that has truly stuck with me, it would be to enjoy the daily journey with the horses. You should really appreciate the lifestyle that surrounds them – to wake up every day, build those partnerships, and work towards improving that bond. That is what I try to live by, and for me that is the essence of horsemanship.

 

How do you build a relationship with your horses, and how important is that connection when competing in classes like the Rolex Grand Prix?

I can only speak from my own experience, but for me, developing a deep and meaningful relationship with my horses is everything. I do not like having horses constantly coming and going from my stables. I try to produce them from a young age and grow together – building trust and confidence – so that when we enter an arena like at Aachen, we are truly a team.

If you look at many of the horses winning the big classes today, you can see it is often the result of years of partnership. The rider needs to know the horse inside out, and the horse must trust their rider completely. That kind of connection goes far beyond sport. It becomes about mutual respect and understanding. To be honest, I find that part – the relationship – just as rewarding, if not more so, than the actual competition.

 

You have spoken before about the importance of horsemanship and putting the horse first. How do you think the sport can ensure the next generation continues to prioritize horse welfare?

I think a lot of us including the riders, trainers, and others across the industry are making a conscious effort to educate the younger generation, and to keep learning ourselves. We all have a responsibility to continuously raise the standard.

For me, horsemanship is not just a principle – it is my a personal mission. I try to be as thoughtful and precise as possible in everything I do with the horses. Their wellbeing comes before anything else, and I believe that this is how they reach their true potential – whatever their level or discipline.

Ultimately, a great horse is one that brings joy to its rider, no matter the level. That mindset – putting the horse first – should be the north star for everyone involved in this sport.

In your opinion, how important has the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping been for the development of the sport? What does it mean to you as a rider?

I believe the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping has played a vital role in elevating our sport. Today, we have many five-star events, but it was crucial to create an initiative that brought the very best together – horses and riders alike – at a consistent, world-class level.

With the current calendar being so busy, the top riders are often spread across the world, and we do not always compete at the same shows. The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping creates those moments where the elite of the sport come together in one arena, and that is something truly special.

Personally, these are the events I dreamed of as a kid. They are the kind of venues you grow up aspiring to ride at, and so be here now, competing against riders I have looked up to all my life, is a huge honour. Just being part of it means you have already achieved something significant.