On the Road to the World Breeding Championships - Part 1 Simone Pearce

Australia will be represented by an exciting line up of young riders at next week’s Longines FEI/WBFSH World Breeding Dressage Championships for Young Horses at Ermelo in the Netherlands.

In the first edition of Equestrian Australia’s exclusive rider interview series, we speak with Europe based star Simone Pearce who has two horses competing.

What horses are you campaigning at this event and how has their form been of late?

“I will be taking Casablanca in the 5yo class which is owned by Chateau De Fontaine and Feodoro who is owned by Helgstrand Dressage is in the 6yo class. I think both horses have had a solid and consistent preparation for the event. They are progressing nicely with each ride and I am really excited to see what we can produce in the big environment next week.”

What does it mean to compete at this event for both you and your horses?

“This will be the third year in a row I have represented Australia at the World Young Horse Championships. I am very grateful to be doing it with two lovely horses. I think it’s a real showcase of what’s to come in terms of potential combinations for each nation as the horses train towards a Grand Prix goal and I am very proud to be a representative for the future of the sport in Australia.”

It is an important stepping stone for their futures so it must be very important that they perform well here?

“Of course in every performance, it is important to perform well. I don't think this single show can determine the future of the horses as they are young and will continue to grow and develop. But for sure a good performance can help lead them into a fantastic long term career.”

What sort of preparations have they been going through in readiness?

“My preparation has not altered too much from our usual weekly routine. The horses are still in the field each day and receiving spa treatments after training and enjoying relaxing weekends. My preparation is all about gradual progression rather than drastic changes.”

What are your performance expectations at the event?

“At events like this I don’t think it’s possible to predict your performance. The horses are young and with this unpredictable. But I feel my horses are in good shape and I am enthusiastic to see how they will perform.”

How are you generally enjoying life abroad and how do you feel your career in the saddle is progressing towards the bigger picture goals you have?

“Living abroad has its positives as well as negative attributes. I am very grateful to be surrounded by such talented and successful riders and of course I am very humbled to have the opportunity to ride so many amazing horses each day and also in competition. However I really miss my family and friends and that sort of sense of having a "home"- it can get very lonely but this struggle has definitely made me a stronger and more resilient person. In terms of progression, I am just appreciating each lesson learned and each opportunity gained rather than focusing on one particular goal.”