Norway's, Ingrid Gjelsten, has announced that she is putting her equestrian career "on hold." "It is time to close this chapter and start a new one," she said.
"After much thought, I have decided to put my riding career on hold," wrote the Norwegian. "This is one of the hardest decisions of my life. Equestrian sport has shaped my life and my identity!"
"Now it is time to take a step back and focus on new challenges and opportunities," she continued. "Although I will no longer ride at a high level, horses will remain an important part of my life. I want to thank everyone who was part of my equestrian journey: my parents, trainers, grooms, sponsors and …"
"I would also like to thank all the horses that helped me move forward (step by step). In particular, Edgar, my once-in-a-lifetime horse."
During her career, Gjelsten won more than 25 international classes, including the CSIU25 1.50m Grand Prix in 2021 in Stockholm and the U25 Grand Prix in Opglabbeek in 2019. Last year, the Norwegian also won the 1.55m CSI4* Grand Prix in Thermal!