Marcus Orlob is an international Grand Prix dressage rider and professional trainer. Based in Wellington, Florida, Marcus runs Orlob Dressage where he focuses on developing horses and riders to the highest level while staying true to classical principles whilst always prioritising horse welfare. Orlob Dressage offers full-care training programs five to six days per week, tailored to each individual horse. Marcus says “I provide personalised training packages for the rider-and-horse combination, competition coaching, sales, and the development of young horses through Grand Prix. My goal is to create confident, sound, and motivated horses while helping riders reach their full potential.”
How did horses come into your life?
Marcus and Glory Day at Global winning the Intermediate 2 the Lövsta Challenge. Image courtesy of Centre Line Media
Horses came into my life through my neighbours in Germany. It was a family with a son my age who were deeply involved with horses. They introduced me to the horse world and, in a way, pulled me right into it. I was around eleven years old at the time, and from the very beginning I was completely fascinated. What started as simply spending time with friends quickly turned into something much bigger. Being around the horses, learning how to handle and ride them, and understanding their personalities sparked a passion that has shaped my entire life. That is where everything began.
Did you always know that you wanted to be a professional dressage rider?
No, not at the beginning. Originally, the plan was to take over my father’s funeral business one day. However, I had always been riding alongside that plan. When friends would go on vacation, I often rode their horses for them. Afterwards, people were amazed at how the horses moved and performed. That feedback made me realise that I might have a special feel for the sport. Step by step, I became more determined to pursue dressage professionally. I competed more and more, gained experience in the show ring, and completed my formal training in Germany, earning my certification as a Pferdewirt. From there, my journey developed steadily through competition, mentorship, and continuous learning.
Who have been your mentors and who do you train with now?
Marcus and Jane heading to the horse inspection at Aachen last year
I began my professional path in Germany. My first trainer was Michael Dyhr, followed by Johann Zagers. Later, I was fortunate to refine my skills and gain valuable finetuning experience with Hubertus Schmidt. In the United States, I continue to work closely with Christine Traurig. Having experienced mentors and an educated eye from the ground remains extremely important to me, especially at the highest level of the sport.
What do you love about dressage?
What I love most about dressage is the partnership. At its best, it looks effortless — but behind that harmony are years of trust, communication, and systematic training. I love the precision, the feeling of power combined with lightness, and the constant pursuit of improvement. Dressage is a lifelong study — you never truly “arrive,” you keep refining.
Most memorable moments?
Marcus and Jane. Ready for the horse inspection
Winning international competitions in Europe has certainly been among my proudest moments. Being part of the Nations Cup team in Aachen in 2024 was incredibly special, given Aachen’s significance in our sport. Another unforgettable milestone was being selected for the Olympic team for Paris 2024. Representing at that level is an honor and a reflection of years of dedication, teamwork, and belief.
Dressage comes with challenges, what have been yours?
Like every professional rider, I have faced challenges such as injuries, setbacks in competition, and the pressure that comes with high-level sport. There are also the everyday challenges of managing horses, travel, and expectations. These experiences taught me resilience and patience. In dressage, progress is rarely linear — you have to stay consistent and believe in the long-term process.
What do you think horses have taught you?
Jane, handwalking at Global
Horses have taught me patience, humility, and consistency. They react honestly — they mirror your energy and mindset. If something does not work, it forces you to reflect and improve yourself. They have also taught me that true strength comes from calmness and clarity.
What are your training and management philosophies?
My training philosophy is based on classical principles: rhythm, relaxation, connection, impulsion, straightness, and collection. I believe in systematic development according to the horse’s physical and mental maturity. Management is just as important as riding. Proper turnout, correct feeding, veterinary care, farrier work, and a balanced schedule are essential. A happy and healthy horse will always perform better — long-term soundness is the priority.
What advice can you offer to someone who would like to follow in your footsteps?
Marcus with Glory Days before the horse inspection at Aachen in 2025
Be patient and be willing to work hard. Ride as many different horses as possible — every horse teaches you something new. Surround yourself with knowledgeable mentors and never stop learning. Most importantly, focus on the basics. The fundamentals are what carry you to the highest level.
Your Top Tip
Never rush the training scale. If the basics are solid, everything else becomes possible.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
“Ride the horse you have today.” Every horse is different, and every day is different. Adaptability and feel are more important than ego.
It takes a team to do dressage, who is in your support team?
Dressage is never an individual sport — it truly takes a team.
I am incredibly fortunate to work with outstanding owners such as Alice Tarjan and Dennis Sargenti, whose belief and support make high-level sport possible. My groom, Allison Nemeth, plays a vital role in the daily care, preparation, and well-being of the horses. I am also supported by an excellent farrier and veterinary team who ensure long-term soundness and performance.
There is tremendous support from the USEF staff and from Christine Traurig, especially during championship preparations and major competitions.
On a personal level, I am deeply grateful for my girlfriend, who supports me through both the highs and the challenges that come with professional sport. I am equally thankful to my clients, who respect the demands of travel and competition and trust me with their horses.
And of course, my most important partner is the horse. Jane — the top horse I am currently riding deserves special recognition. She is not just an athlete but a true teammate. Her talent, heart, and willingness make everything possible. A huge part of our success belongs to her, and she deserves immense gratitude. Overall, I am surrounded by a fantastic and dedicated team — and that makes all the difference.