In the fast-paced and demanding world of equestrian sports, where both the rider and horse must achieve peak performance, balancing traditional values with modern demands is a challenging task. Marielle and Fernando, a dynamic duo in the equestrian scene, have successfully navigated these waters, bringing together a deep respect for horsemanship with the rigorous requirements of competitive show jumping. Their journey from Mexico to Europe, their shared passion for horses, and their commitment to ethical training methods offer valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in this sport while staying true to one’s values.
A Passion Rooted in Tradition
Marielle’s journey into the equestrian world began not with a love for the sport itself but with a deep-seated passion for horses. Growing up in Mexico, she was always drawn to these majestic animals, spending as much time as possible in their company. "I was always very passionate about horses, not really the sport," Marielle reflects. This passion was nurtured by her family’s involvement in show jumping, where her grandfather, father, and uncles were all amateur riders.
This family connection naturally led Marielle into show jumping, a discipline she embraced not just for the competition but for the opportunity to build a deep bond with her horses. "It was more about the horses, and then came the sport," she explains. This approach has guided her throughout her career, influencing her decisions both as a rider and a stable manager.
From Mexico to Europe: Expanding Horizons
The decision to move from Mexico to Europe was driven by Marielle’s desire to push the boundaries of her career and immerse herself in the heart of the equestrian world. "I was riding in Mexico and doing the sport there, but I knew I had to get on the map to open new opportunities," she says. Initially, Marielle and her partner began by participating in shows in the United States, but it was Europe that ultimately became their base.
The move to Europe marked a significant turning point. Marielle and Fernando established their stable in Holland, just outside of Eindhoven, where they could focus on developing young horses while maintaining their strong ethical approach to training. "We started a project with young horses, sometimes selling, sometimes keeping them for the sport," Marielle explains. This balance between commercial success and sporting excellence is a hallmark of their operation.
Balancing Horsemanship with Competitive Demands
One of the biggest challenges Marielle and Fernando face is maintaining their commitment to horsemanship in an industry that often prioritizes results over the well-being of the horse. "Horses are such wonderful animals that they can adapt to almost everything," Fernando notes. "But it’s crucial to create a system around their nature, respecting their needs while preparing them for the sport."
This philosophy is evident in how they manage their horses. Marielle and Fernando are advocates for allowing horses to live as naturally as possible, even when they are in competition. "We love to have the horses together in groups, living outside as much as possible," Fernando says. This approach helps maintain the horses’ mental and physical health, allowing them to perform at their best when it matters most.
Their training methods emphasize patience and understanding, particularly when it comes to young horses. Fernando is wary of pushing horses too hard, too soon. "Young horses are not ready to do as much as we see in the young horse classes," he explains. "If you push them too early, they might lose their love for jumping." Instead, they focus on gradual development, allowing each horse to progress at its own pace.
Building a Sustainable and Ethical Business
Beyond their work with horses, Marielle and Fernando are also focused on building a sustainable and ethical business. This includes a strong educational component, where they aim to pass on their values to the next generation of riders. "Our idea was to change the approach to horsemanship and teach people to do the sport while respecting the nature of the horses," Fernando explains.
Their academy in Holland is designed to do just that. They teach young riders not only the technical skills required for show jumping but also the importance of understanding and respecting their horses. "We want to create independent riders who don’t rely solely on grooms and trainers," Marielle says. "They should know their horses inside and out."
This educational approach is about more than just creating better riders; it’s about fostering a deeper connection between humans and horses. By understanding the individual personalities of their horses—whether they are introverted or extroverted, for example—riders can tailor their training methods to suit each animal’s needs, leading to better performance and happier horses.
Looking to the Future: A Vision for Equestrian Sports
As Marielle and Fernando continue to grow their stable and educational programs, their vision for the future remains clear. They want to lead by example, showing that it’s possible to succeed in the highly competitive world of show jumping without compromising on ethics or the well-being of the horses. "If we can teach this to the younger generation, we can change the sport for the better," Marielle says.
Their approach, which blends traditional horsemanship with modern training techniques, offers a refreshing perspective on a sport that is often criticized for its commercialism and lack of empathy. By focusing on the well-being of their horses and fostering a deep understanding between rider and horse, Marielle and Fernando are paving the way for a more sustainable and ethical future in equestrian sports.