The Horse That Holds My Heart: Special Envoy and Rodrigo Pessoa’s Special Bond

Rodrigo Pessoa, a legendary figure in the world of show jumping, has had the privilege of working with numerous exceptional horses throughout his illustrious career. With seven Olympic Games already under his belt and an eighth on the horizon in Paris, Pessoa’s experience and expertise in the sport are unparalleled. In a recent interview, Pessoa shared his thoughts on the unique relationship between rider and horse, highlighting the invaluable lessons that these magnificent animals teach us every day.

„I think what is so special with our sport is that every day we get to learn from the horses,“ Pessoa reflects. „They are all so different, each with their own personality, strengths, and challenges. It’s a unique characteristic of our sport that the horses are live beings that constantly challenge and surprise you. This is what makes show jumping both difficult and incredibly special.“

Having ridden a countless number of horses over the years, Pessoa has developed a keen ability to understand and connect with his equine partners. He explains, „I think that I figure the horses out quicker now than I did earlier in my career. While no two horses are the same, my experience allows me to find similarities and solve problems faster. I can anticipate their needs and behaviors because I’ve been through similar situations before with other horses. This knowledge and intuition help me navigate the complexities of the sport more effectively.“

One of Pessoa’s current partners is the talented Major Tom, a horse with whom he is preparing for his eighth Olympic Games. Describing Major Tom as „very sharp and intelligent,“ Pessoa acknowledges the unique qualities that make this horse stand out. „He is easy to ride and compete, but his sharpness requires careful attention. Things happen quickly with him, but his intelligence and quick understanding make my job easier. It’s a joy to work with a horse of his caliber and quality.“

Reflecting on his career, Pessoa acknowledges that not every horse reaches the level of success he had hoped for. However, he emphasizes the importance of cherishing and enjoying the moments spent with exceptional horses like Major Tom. „I feel very fortunate to have a horse of his talent and quality at this stage of my career. I try to savor every moment with him and appreciate the opportunity to ride such a remarkable animal.“

As Pessoa looks ahead to his next challenge in Paris, his passion for the sport and deep connection with his horses continue to drive his success. With a wealth of experience and a profound respect for the animals that make show jumping possible, Rodrigo Pessoa exemplifies the true essence of equestrian excellence.