Equnews: "You have been doing great so far in Oliva. You attend this event every year ... Why?"
De Grande: "The MET-Tours are very pleasant competitions. Everything is nearby, and you can keep up with everything from one spot. Furthermore, you can take your horses to the beach almost every day. I think that is a great plus. For both riders, owners, and family this competition is very fun and comfortable."
Equnews: "How do you prepare for this outdoor tour?"
De Grande: "For the last few months, I've been working a lot on dressage and gave my horses enough rest. That way, they can compete with a fresh mind and body and evolve every week."
Equnews: "How did you prepare for the Grand Prix in Spain?"
De Grande: "Because there were so many riders, I knew that the first qualification would be very important. Fortunately, I finished third right away, so I earned my place in the GP right at the start. On Friday, I rode a 1,35m-class for training, and on Saturday I got a serious dressage training from my trainer Jan Dupont. Then, my team and I got ready for the GP on Sunday."
Equnews: "What are your plans with Belano, your current top horse?"
De Grande: "I will remain in Oliva for the MET III, so hopefully we can still achieve some good results together. Afterward, I will start looking for some interesting CSI3*-competitions and maybe a CSIO3*.
Equnews: "Where will you bring your absolute a-game this year?"
De Grande: "I wasn't allowed to start in Lanaken last year despite my good results, so hopefully things will be different this year so we can achieve something great in the Belgian Championship!"
De Grande also adds: "I would like to thank my team and sponsors for believing in me and supporting me!"