Javier Guillén Callejas is a twenty-two-year-old Spanish international dressage rider based in Zaragoza, Spain. The very busy Javier, combines riding and judging with completing his degree in Business Administration and Management at the University of Zaragoza.
How did your dressage journey begin?
I have always loved animals, especially horses, but I do not come from an equestrian family. Although my parents were not involved in the horse world, they have always supported me, and I started riding ponies at the age of five. From a very young age, I felt a strong connection with horses, and I immediately enjoyed being around them and learning to ride.
As I started to spend more time in the sport, I became particularly interested in dressage because of the partnership it requires between horse and rider. Over time, I began to focus more seriously on training and competition, and I really enjoy the process of developing a horse step by step.
I would love to become a professional in the equestrian industry and be involved with dressage in the future, although I am still not completely sure in what exact direction. Since 2024, I have also been a National Dressage Judge Level 1, and I really enjoy watching and judging dressage, as it has given me a different perspective and a deeper understanding of the sport.
What does a typical week look like for you?
I ride my own horse, Resuelto AS. He is a 14-year-old PRE stallion, and we have been together for the past eight years. Right now, our main goal is to keep progressing towards Grand Prix level, so we are focusing a lot on developing more strength, collection, and consistency in the work.
In a normal week, I usually ride him five to six days. Most days are dressage training sessions, but I also like to include some lighter work, like hacking or conditioning, to keep him fresh and motivated.
At the same time, I am finishing my university degree, so I have to organise my week carefully and adapt my training depending on my classes and exams. It can be challenging, but I have learned how to manage both, and I try to stay consistent with my routine.
Who have been your mentors and who do you currently train with?
I am very lucky to have had the help of some great trainers during my early years, especially with Resuelto when we were both very young and inexperienced.
For some years, I train with Guillermo García Ayala, and I feel very fortunate to have his guidance. He has helped me a lot in my progression and in developing a better feel and connection in the work. I train with him regularly, combining lessons and continuous feedback.
What do you love about dressage?
What I love most about dressage is seeing how good riding can make horses feel better, more balanced, and more confident in their work. I really value the principles of classical dressage training, where the focus is on harmony, correctness, and the long-term wellbeing of the horse.
I also love the bond we build with our horses through daily work and understanding. For me, it is very rewarding to feel how the right training can improve not only performance, but also the relationship between horse and rider.
Can you share some of your highlights?
I have been competing since I was twelve years old. That same year, I took part in my first Spanish Championships, and since then I have competed in a total of ten Spanish Championships. Throughout my career, I have been Spanish Individual Champion five years in a row, won a silver medal in 2020, and became Spanish Team Champion in 2025.
Another highlight of my career has been representing Spain internationally. Since 2020, I have had the honour of representing my country at six European Championships, which has allowed me to gain valuable experience and compete against some of the best young riders in Europe.
You have been Spanish Champion five times, what does that mean to you?
Being Spanish Champion five times is something I am very proud of. Each title was special in its own way because they all came at different stages of my development as a rider. Looking back, what I value most is not the titles themselves, but all the work, dedication, and learning that went into achieving them. They have motivated me to keep improving and striving for higher goals, while also reminding me to enjoy the journey and appreciate the partnership with my horse.
Dressage isn’t without its challenges, what have been your most challenging times?
One of the most challenging times of my dressage journey was during the early years with Resuelto. We were both very young and inexperienced, and we had to learn and develop together.
However, I believe those challenges were also some of the most valuable experiences. They taught me the importance of consistency and patience. Overcoming those difficulties together helped create the strong partnership we have today and makes our achievements even more meaningful.
How do you build a strong and trusting relationship with your horses?
I think a successful partnership between horse and rider is built on trust, consistency, and mutual understanding. Every horse is different, so it is important to take the time to understand their personality, strengths, and needs, rather than trying to fit every horse into the same system.
For me, building a strong relationship starts with the daily work. It is about listening to the horse, being patient, and always trying to work in a way that helps them feel confident and comfortable. I believe that when a horse understands what is being asked and feels physically and mentally at ease, they are much more willing to work with you.
A strong partnership does not happen overnight. It is built over time through good training, trust, and shared experiences. Having been with Resuelto for eight years, I know how important that bond is, and I believe it is one of the key factors behind any success in dressage.
What advice would you give to someone who would like to follow in your footsteps?
I would advise them to enjoy the journey and focus on learning as much as possible. Dressage is a sport that requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to keep improving every day. Above all, I think it requires a genuine love for horses and for the sport itself. Progress does not always happen as quickly as we would like, so it is important to stay motivated and trust the process.
I would also encourage them to always put the welfare of the horse first and to build their training on the principles of classical dressage. Taking the time to understand horses and develop a good partnership with them is, in my opinion, one of the most important aspects of becoming a good rider.
Your future aspirations?
My main goal is to make my Grand Prix debut and start gaining experience at that level. It is an important step in my journey, and I am looking forward to continuing to learn and develop alongside my horse.
In the long term, I would like to keep progressing and remain competitive at the highest levels of the sport. Beyond results, one of my biggest aspirations is to become a better rider and horseman every day. I believe there is always something new to learn, which is why continuous improvement is what motivates me most in dressage.
Your Top Tip
Love what you do.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
“An eye for detail is a sign of victory.”
It takes a team to do dressage, who is in your support team?
It definitely takes a team to do dressage, and I have been very fortunate to be surrounded by great people throughout my journey. First of all, I would like to thank my parents for their continuous support throughout my journey. They have played a fundamental role in helping me pursue my goals.
I am also very grateful to my trainer, Guillermo García Ayala, for his guidance and support over the years. In addition, there are many professionals working behind the scenes who contribute to our success, including our veterinarian, farrier, osteopath, and everyone involved in Resuelto’s care and wellbeing.
Finally, I would like to give a special thanks to my sponsor, Maximilian Equestrian, for their continuous support and for believing in us. I am very grateful to have them as part of our journey.