Questions & Answers with Young Riders Academy Participant Claudia Moore

By Jumper News on 2026-03-17

We are here at The Dutch Masters, the opening Major of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. What does it mean to you to compete at one of the sport’s most prestigious events?

To be at such a prestigious show means a huge amount to me. It’s what every young rider dreams of, and I couldn’t be more grateful to the Young Riders Academy supported by Rolex and everyone at The Dutch Masters who made it possible.

The Rolex Grand Slam Majors are known for bringing together the very best horses and riders in the world. How does that level of competition inspire you as a rider?

It’s a great privilege to watch and learn from the best, and to understand what it takes to compete at the top level of the sport while doing what I love with my horses.

These events are as much about partnership as performance. How would you describe the relationship you build with a horse when preparing for a Major like this?

It takes a lot of time. They have to understand you, and you have to understand them. I’ve had one of my horses since he was three years old, so I feel like I know him like the back of my hand. To be successful at this level, everything has to be one hundred and ten per cent – you with them, and them with you.

What are the key qualities that you look for in a top-level horse?

I would say they definitely have to have a good heart, a great mind and the willingness to learn and develop with you. This week I have Toscane Z with me. I’ve had her for about three years now and she’s been a wonderful horse. She really gives me everything every time we enter the ring.

The atmosphere here in ’s-Hertogenbosch is always extraordinary. How does riding in front of a passionate and knowledgeable crowd influence your performance?

Riding in such a phenomenal atmosphere creates a lot of excitement for me. There’s a little bit of pressure, but I think that just pushes me even more to focus and perform as best I can for my horse.

You’ve been part of the Young Riders Academy supported by Rolex. How important has that programme been in shaping your journey towards competing at events like this?

The Young Riders Academy supported by Rolex has given me such an incredible experience over the past year to develop myself as a horse person and as a sportswoman, and to really learn how to manage my horses for milestone events such as The Dutch Masters.

What are some of the most valuable lessons or experiences you gained from the Young Riders Academy supported by Rolex?

I have taken so much from the Young Riders Academy supported by Rolex – especially the importance of patience and consistency in every part of your life whether it be in or out of the saddle.

Behind every great rider is a dedicated team. Could you tell us about the people who play a crucial role in helping you and your horses perform at your best during a week like this?

I think I speak for a lot of riders when I say that if you don’t have a great team behind you, you don’t have anything. I’m super lucky to have such a wonderful support system – my grooms at the show and at home, my vets, my farrier, my family, my friends, my owners, my sponsors and supporters, I am so thankful to them as without them none of this would be possible.

Source: Press Release from Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping