We’re here at The Dutch Masters, one of the four Majors that make up the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. What makes the Rolex Grand Slam so special?
YM: I think the Rolex Grand Slam Majors are the best shows in the world. They are the competitions everybody watches, and the start lists are always unbelievable. It makes you very proud to be part of it, because when you are invited to these shows you know you are among the top riders in the sport. The prize money, the organisation, everything is always great. They are truly unique events.
How would you describe the challenge of competing at a Rolex Grand Slam Major compared to other 5* shows?
YM: The biggest difference is the level of riders competing. At these shows everybody is at the very top. To compete at a Rolex Grand Slam Major, you have to be performing at your absolute best.
The Rolex Grand Slam Majors always bring together the very best in the sport. How does that level of competition affect your mindset going into a class?
YM: I think the Majors inpire you to become even better riders and competitors. Venues like The Dutch Masters give you extra motivation, enjoyment and energy. We know how difficult these competitions are, so every rider prepares so much as possible. When we are here, we are here to try to win.
What makes a horse particularly suited to competing at the Rolex Grand Slam Majors?
YM: Riders do not always bring the same horses to every Major. When you have a horse that can perform well across all these venues, it is something special, as some horses are better on grass while others prefer to jump on a surface. For the Rolex Grand Slam Majors, scope is one of the most important qualities, as the competitions are extremely demanding. Horses use a great deal of power in these classes, so they also need time to recover before and after the shows.
You travel the world competing at the highest level, how proud are you to represent Brazil at the Rolex Grand Slam Majors?
YM: It is very important to me. Brazil has many very talented riders, but we do not have the same equestrian culture as some other nations. For that reason, it is important to continue opening the door for the next generation. Riders such as Nelson and Rodrigo Pessoa, and Luciana Diniz opened many doors for us. Now it is our responsibility to keep pushing forward and show young riders that it is possible to be part of this world.
What advice would you give a young rider who is hoping to compete at the top of the sport?
YM: Believe. Dream and believe!
How crucial is your support team when preparing your horses for competitions at the highest level?
YM: Like in every sport, the team is very important, but in our sport, people do not always realise how much work happens behind the scenes. You need the right people around you.
That is why it often takes time to find the right setup. First, you need to understand who the right people are and then bring everything together in the right way. It is a long process. Right now, I am very lucky to have an incredible team, and they make a big difference.
My family is also very involved. Everyone loves horses and lives for the sport – my children are now competing, and my son has been riding in the national classes here at The Dutch Masters. When everyone is on the same page and loves the sport – this kind of life becomes possible.
Looking ahead, what would it mean to you to win a Rolex Grand Slam Major?
YM: It is one of my biggest dreams. I have never achieved it, although I came very close last year here at The Dutch Masters. Winning a Rolex Grand Slam Major is as special as winning an Olympic medal. It would mean a lot to me.
Source: Press Release from Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping
Photo: © Rolex Grand Slam / Helen Cruden
