Philippe Rozier, a 61-year-old Olympic champion, brought seven horses to the international show jumping competition at the Bel Air stud farm in Pernay. He emphasized the importance of listening to the horses, as they are not machines and play a significant role in choosing when they are ready to compete at a higher level.
Rozier highlighted the demanding schedule of competitions throughout the year, emphasizing the need to continuously participate in events to maintain a good ranking and access top-level competitions. He also discussed the challenges of finding and training high-quality horses, noting that the market for top-level horses has exploded, making them increasingly expensive and sought after.
Regarding the French market, Rozier mentioned that France is fortunate to be a breeding country, but foreign nations with significant purchasing power often come to France to buy horses. He acknowledged the importance of both selling horses for recognition and allowing owners to keep horses to support riders in pursuit of medals.
Rozier explained his approach to horse ownership, mentioning that he invests in horses to sell them and make a living. He also rides horses owned by others, highlighting the diverse ways in which ownership arrangements can work in the sport of show jumping.
In terms of the competition results, the article listed winners in various categories, including the CSI** and CSI* classes. The article also provided information about the upcoming events scheduled for the following day, including competitions for young horses and different levels of riders.
Overall, the article shed light on the complexities of the show jumping world, from the importance of horses in the sport to the challenges and opportunities presented by the market for high-quality horses. Philippe Rozier’s insights and experiences provided valuable perspectives on the dynamics of horse sales and competitions in the show jumping industry.