Rolex Testimonee Eric Lamaze is one of the world’s most respected show jumpers and achieved so much throughout his stellar career. Following the announcement of his retirement, the Rolex Grand Slam team reached out to some of Eric’s biggest fans and dearest friends to highlight what makes him the legend he became.
Steve Guerdat
What is your favourite Rolex Grand Slam Major memory with Eric Lamaze?
There is more than one moment that stands in my memory, it is more about the history between Eric and the Rolex Grand Slam Major of Calgary. Over the years he has built a legacy over there and both Eric and Spruce Meadows have benefited from all the successes they have shared, it is unimaginable what he has achieved in that ring.
Which of Eric’s horses stands out the most and why?
Hickstead, he is one of the all-time greats and so similar to Eric, one pair I can’t stop watching again and again…
What is the most useful thing you have learnt from Eric?
Never doubt, always stay positive and keep moving forward
If you could use one word to describe Eric, what would it be?
Confident and positive
Tiffany Foster
What is your favourite Rolex Grand Slam Major memory with Eric Lamaze?
My favourite Rolex Grand Slam Major memory with Eric is when he won the Grand Prix in Calgary on Hickstead for the first time in 2007. It was an incredibly inspirational moment that I was able to witness firsthand. I’ll never forget the goosebumps that ran down my spine and the tears of joy when he cleared the final jump. It will be seared in my memory forever!
Which of Eric’s horses stands out the most and why?
I think this one is pretty obvious… the one and only Hickstead. I started working for Eric when Hickstead was nine-years-old and got to be along for the whole ride. In my opinion, he is the best show jumper of all time. He wanted to win as bad as Eric did and they were a perfect match. They would both try to win any class they entered; while most horses need a round or two of schooling in between classes, Hickstead never did. He was a joy to watch compete because you could feel his heart was in it. Truly spectacular!
What is the most useful thing you have learnt from Eric?
The most useful thing I have learned from Eric is to be resilient. There is no room for not trying your hardest every time when Eric is involved. He pushes you to give your all and he will not accept cowardness of any kind. He has made me stronger than I would have ever been without him.
If you could use one word to describe Eric, what would it be?
Competitor.
Spencer Smith
What is your favourite Rolex Grand Slam Major memory with Eric Lamaze?
It would have to be my first year at CHI Geneva, I was very inexperienced and young. He really made me believe I could win the Rolex Grand Prix. I went in the ring so confident; he has that effect on people.
Which of Eric’s horses stands out the most and why?
Fine Lady, she has the biggest heart and she would do anything for Eric. Their partnership was amazing.
What is the most useful thing you have learnt from Eric?
To believe in yourself.
If you could use one word to describe Eric, what would it be?
Determined.
Copyright picture: Rolex / Ashley Neuhof
Source: Rolex Grand Slam