A small Q&A with Leopold Van Asten revealed that the rider is eagerly looking forward to a new season after a period of setbacks, that despite this he has already amassed a nice record of great wins, but also that he values his team highly and is still open to learn (from everyone).
What are your goals for this year?
"We have some open championships coming up this year. The last six months of 2022 I had a bit of a hard time, but the horses are coming into shape. The young horses are also stepping up, including two 10-year-old horses I took to the Dutch Masters. They were allowed to taste the 5* level. I hope everything continues to go well and I'm looking forward to the upcoming season."
Proudest moment in your career?
"One of my proudest moment was winning the Grand Prix here in Den Bosch (cfr. Dutch Masters). I have also already won two Global Champions Tour Grand Prixs, which is also nice of course. Especially the one in Valkenswaard, which felt like a real home victory. In addition, winning the Dutch Championship three times is also something I won't soon forget."
How important is your team around you?
"Without them being a competitive rider is impossible. They are the most important people behind the scenes, they do a lot of work like taking care of and transporting the horses. In addition, the team at home is also important."
Who is your big role model?
"When I was young I always looked up to riders like John Whitaker, Jos Lansink and Franky Sloothaak. But I still look up to the riders around me, from whom I can undoubtedly learn a lot as well."
Rolex Grand Slam - a good concept?
"The arrival of the Rolex Grand Slam is an incredible opportunity for riders. It is a new dimension within our sport and only cranks up the level. They are great shows, definitely the best in the world."
Source: Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping