"Last year we had a rail down in the jump-off, so I want to improve on that performance.”

Much of his success has come thanks to Leone Jei, a horse that has been the partner for four of his five Major victories. Fuchs describes the gelding as a true performer who thrives under pressure and loves the spotlight of the sport’s grandest stages. “Nothing is too wide, too high, or too difficult for him,” he says. “He feeds off the atmosphere, and in big arenas like Spruce Meadows, I feel he gives me an extra ten percent.” What makes Leone Jei particularly special is his adjustability. With his massive stride and powerful hindquarters, he can easily leave out strides when needed but also compress and add strides without losing scope. For Fuchs, this adaptability provides the confidence to attack courses at the very highest level.

The International Ring in Calgary, however, remains one of the sport’s greatest challenges. Its vast size, undulating terrain, and uniquely built obstacles – with longer poles, spookier fillers, and imposing heights, demand a different style of riding. “It’s a very intimidating arena,” admits Fuchs. “Every year it takes me a round or two to get into the rhythm there. But that challenge is also what makes it so special, and Leone Jei loves it.”

Spruce Meadows holds a particularly important place in Fuchs’ career, not only for his victories but also for the memories it has given him. He recalls his debut appearance, when he was still very young, and finished third in the Grand Prix. That same day, Eric Lamaze and Hickstead claimed their final victory together, a moment that Fuchs remembers as both humbling and inspiring. He also treasures the two Grand Prix titles he has already won in Calgary, as well as moments he witnessed from afar, such as Sameh El Dahan’s dramatic 2018 jump-off triumph.

When it comes to preparing for Majors, Fuchs doesn’t change much. He believes in giving his horses confidence and freshness through smaller shows before heading into a Major, ensuring they arrive full of energy and belief. He credits this preparation for his victories in Aachen, Geneva, and Calgary. “At the Majors you face the biggest jumps and most technical courses,” he explains. “The horse needs to be completely with you. For me, it’s about building them up with easy, positive rounds beforehand so they’re ready for the challenge.”

Competing in these events holds even deeper meaning for Fuchs as a Rolex Testimonee. He grew up dreaming of the Majors, and winning them remains the pinnacle of his career. Representing Rolex, a brand synonymous with precision and excellence, only heightens the sense of achievement. “The support from the Rolex family is immense,” he says. “It makes it even more special to compete and win at these iconic shows.”

As he returns to Spruce Meadows as the Live Contender, Fuchs draws strength not just from past victories or preparation, but from his bond with Leone Jei. That partnership, built on trust and consistency, gives him the belief that they can once again rise to the challenge. “If I were riding another horse, I would feel more nervous,” he admits. “But with Leone Jei, my confidence is as high as it can be.”

While the thought of winning the Rolex Grand Slam is a tantalising prospect, Fuchs insists he does not let it enter his mind. “It’s already amazing to win one Rolex Grand Prix,” he says. “The Grand Slam is nearly impossible, so I don’t put that pressure on myself. I just try to win because I love to win these classes, not because of bonuses or money.”

With a clear mindset, a remarkable horse, and a track record of success in Calgary, Martin Fuchs heads into the 50th anniversary of Spruce Meadows ready to embrace the challenge. For him, the journey itself, competing in the sport’s greatest arenas with a horse that thrives on the biggest occasions – is already a victory.