Meet the Next Generation: Questions & Answers with Alexandra Amar

By Jumper News on 15 15America/Sao_Paulo December 15America/Sao_Paulo 2022

Why is CHI Geneva such a special show?

It’s a home show so it’s already something special, as you’re competing in front of your home crowd, which is really lovely. For my part, I’ve been selected to compete at CHI Geneva three times, which means a lot to me. Michel Sorg, who is responsible for the [Swiss Team] selection is always believing in me and always giving me my chance. And of course, CHI Geneva is the most beautiful indoor show in the world, so it’s always a very special feeling to be competing here.

How much inspiration do you take from fellow Swiss riders, such as Martin Fuchs and Steve Guerdat?

When I was a little kid I was always lining-up to get a signature from Martin and Steve, so to be competing with them is something that means a lot to me. I’ve been dreaming of it and working hard, and now being there with them, my dreams are kind of coming true. This year, we can also speak about Edouard [Schmitz], who is competing at 5* level; he has had a wonderful year, and I think he is now an idol, who we can all take inspiration from.

Which horses are you competing with this week?

I’ve had a bit of disappointment jumping here this week, as I brought a very green horse with me to jump at this level, to give him his chance, but maybe it was a little bit early. The horse is Lyon Van De Plataan, he’s 10-years-old and a super-quick horse and very competitive, especially at this level. But this arena is very spooky, with a lot of things to look at, so for a horse who is a little bit green, it was maybe a little bit too early, but he’s definitely a horse for the future and one we will keep an eye on.

Which of your young horses are you most excited about?

That’s an easy question! I currently have a seven-year-old, who my trainer Constant Van Paesschen is riding. She’s a wonderful horse and I think next year we will definitely see her competing in the ranking classes. I’m taking her back this winter so I’m very excited. It’s a horse who I love, it’s a horse we have bred, so I’ve literally been growing with her. In two years’ time, I believe we’ll see her jumping some of the biggest competitions in the world – she is fantastic.

What are you dreams and ambitions for 2023?

I’ve been selected again for the Swiss team, so I would like to confirm my place and take part in a few Nations Cup competitions, and eventually I would really enjoy stepping up a little bit, which I will really work for. Maybe I can jump my first 5* show in St. Gallen, or get my first selection in a really big event, which would absolutely be a dream for me next year.

What’s the proudest moment of your career so far?

There have been a lot of really happy moments. I would have to say last year when I became Swiss champion with Vinci [Du Gue] – that was something very special, which I was working towards a lot, and with no faults, it meant a little bit extra. I’ve been really proud of how I’ve managed my championships and the way my horse has been with me and fighting for me, so this has probably been the best moment in my career so far.

Who has inspired you the most throughout your career?

Definitely my dad. My trainer, Constant Van Paesschen, has been super with me, carrying me through the sport and helping me through the ups and downs. But my dad has really taught me a lot of important things, not just in sport, but also life lessons that you can apply to sport. He’s taught me to be a fighter and to never let myself down, to take my own path and to just go for it, and I think that’s the most precious lesson that someone could give me.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in show jumping?

Just believe in your dreams. I used to be a little kid, who was lining up for riders’ signatures, watching those riders with stars in my eyes. But don’t ever think it’s easy, as it’s a hard path, but don’t give up and just go for it.

In your opinion, how positive an impact has the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping had on the sport?

Rolex has always been a wonderful sponsor and a wonderful support for the sport – they’ve made this Rolex Grand Slam circuit legendary. Scott Brash contributed to it by winning the Rolex Grand Slam, which I thought would be impossible, but he made the impossible possible. For me, it’s a just a timeless concept. It’s made up of four of the biggest competitions in the world, the four competitions, which every single rider dreams of competing at and winning. The Grand Slam of Show Jumping will always be a very special circuit and in the hearts of every single rider in the world.

What are your passions away from show jumping?

I study law, so I would say that I am also 100% in my studies. It’s something that has become a passion, which I guess is mandatory to be able to study law, as if you don’t love it you just won’t make it. I play tennis, which helps me to take a break from show jumping – I think we all need something in order to escape and to breathe different air when show jumping becomes a bit too heavy. All of my hobbies are more of less associated with sport and studies.

Source: Press Release from Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping