Who would be your dream horse to ride?
I love riding stallions because of their temperament. I wish I had written Totilas. One of the best horses of all times and a really special character and type. Sorry for how he ended. I really think he brought dressage to a different era. And then Valero, Blueberry he was just a sweetheart. From the current top level sport horses my favourite is Glamourdale.
Champagne or Cocktail?
Favourite horse event?
I love the show at Ermelo, the world breeding championships for young horses, Aachen for the atmosphere and London International Horse Show.
Favourite music?
I enjoy classical music and cinematic soundtracks. And of course, the Morricone music after whom my stallion is named. I will of course use it on my Grand Prix Freestyle.
Favourite holiday destination?
Actually, I have to say Greece. The best beaches are thirty minutes from my house plus I can take the horses, also the islands are amazing.
Equestrian hero?
I can’t really say I have a hero, but I admire all of the top riders, just by knowing how hard it is to get there. Jessica von Bredow for how light and elegant her riding style is, Isabell Werth for being at the top of the sport so long, Cathrine Dufour and Charlotte Fry as the new generation leaders. Charlotte Dujardin for producing so many good horses. Carl Hester for being the nicest and kindest rider, really correct riding. I think it takes a lot of hard work, courage and commitment to reach the top, so I applaud every rider that has made it.
Product that you can’t live without?
Comfortstall by Haygain, it’s the best stable mattress, my horses love it, they sleep so well.
Perfect way to spend an afternoon?
This is easy, with the horses, at the stable.
Something people don’t know about you?
I have never sold any of my horses. All the horses I have owned I have kept them until retirement. When I was given the option to sell my horse after a very successful competition year and make a lot of money to buy the next one, I decided to keep him, although at the time I couldn’t afford to buy another one. I think not everybody realises how rare this is and how big the connection can become to take such decisions.
What would be the best gift in the world for you?
A horse, and then another horse to keep company to the first one. Also, everything around horses. But what I most wish for at the moment is a flight for horses from Greece to Central Europe, so I can make my dream of coming closer to the top sport more possible.