ROAD TO ROLEX IJRC TOP 10 FINAL: HARRIE SMOLDERS

HARRIE SMOLDERS (NED) - 10/05/1980

Behind Harrie Smolders there is a strong family equestrian tradition, with father and grandfather being riders and breeders. After achieving good results in dressage and various other pony disciplines, when he was 16, between equestrian sports and football - he was also a promising member of his town's local team - he chose horses. A truly winning choice...

He has been a mainstay of the Dutch national teams at the Olympic Games, European Championships (individual Silver in 2017) and World Championships, and has five Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final participations to his credit (the latest in 2023).

The top step of the FEI World Cup final podium seems to have been jinxed for him so far. He has collected three second places (2016, 2022, 2023).

An habitué at the top of the FEI Ranking for more than ten years, in 2018 he wore the leader's sash for eight months. He is closing a very successful year, thanks to three very competitive horses.

Chat on the sidelines

What about your 2025 season? What do you consider your highlight?

It’s been an exceptional year - to win three Grand Prix with Monaco has been incredibly special, but also something he really deserved. I think that would have to be my highlight, he’s so consistent but it really has been his time to shine this year.

Have you already made up your mind about the horse you’ll be riding in the Top 10?

Yes, but we will have to see nearer the time who is feeling in the best form and is telling me they want to go the most.

You’ve had 5 starts in the Top Ten… What are your feelings about this year?

It’s a tough competition, for all the right reasons! It’s one on my bucket list to win for sure, fingers crossed this might be our year!

@IJRC