Vrieling has long been a reliable name in the sport. Despite the sale of several top horses, he continues to perform at the top level. In the meantime, more and more horses from his own breeding are entering the international sport. “Riders who breed themselves — that’s a good thing,” he laughs. “The downside is that you need a lot of space. Ideally, I’d keep all the mares and foals here at the stable so I could follow them daily. Unfortunately, I lack the space. That said, breeding is a skill. So as a rider, you do it more as a hobby. The positive thing is that riders who also pursue a breeding career often ensure that quality mares are preserved.”

“Whether you look at my career or my hobby, there’s one clear thing,” the Dutchman continues candidly. “Mindset determines everything. Not only the horse’s, but also the rider’s (or breeder’s). Where there’s a will, there’s a way. Money helps smooth that path, but hard work always pays off. Not just for me, but for many other riders too. Just look at Lorenzo de Luca, Harrie Smolders...”

My team is my everything!

“My team is everything. The sport has evolved enormously, and as a rider alone, you’re nowhere. You need a good team around you!” says Vrieling. “In fact, the horse-rider-groom relationship is a kind of triangle, each link with its own specific characteristics. Grooms work out of love for the horse. I’m following the recent debates about working hours for grooms, and I agree with them. Love covers a lot, but not everything. Grooms need rest time too!”

“I think it's the responsibility of organizers — and we riders — to monitor that. A burned-out groom from long workdays doesn’t help anyone! On the other hand, grooming — like being a rider — isn’t a 9-to-5 job. So you also can’t demand strictly limited hours. It’s important that we all find a good balance together!”