The International Jumping Riders Club since 1977 is the voice of the showjumping riders from around the world.
International Jumping Riders Club
ROAD TO ROLEX IJRC TOP 10 FINAL: Julien Epaillard
JULIEN EPAILLARD
24/07/1977
Julien is considered number 1 in the speed classes and because of this, he has earned the nickname 'the flying Frenchman'. A passionate motocross enthusiast, he lives in Le Pre d'Auge where he runs the Haras de la Bosquetterie stable together with his wife Susana, a Spanish rider who has also competed in World Cup classes.
In the limelight since he was a boy (European Young Rider Champion in '96), he has joined the French team in the top international events only in recent years.
2022 was the year of his consecration in the jumping Gotha with his participation in the World Championships in Herning, where he finished 6th and entered the top 10 ranking. This year in Milan, in his first European Championships, he stood on the podium for the first time to receive the bronze individual medal.
Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final:
2022: 8°
Which horse are you going to enter in the Rolex IJRC Top 10 and why?
«I will ride Dubai. I hesitated a bit: between Dubai and Donatello I finally chose the take my chance with the one that, in my opinion, is expressing the best condition right now, which is Dubai».
How would you consider your 2023 season?
«I am very satisfied with the whole season. With the individual bronze medal at the European Championships and three Grand Prix victories so far, I certainly can't complain. I am very happy with my 2023».
Who would you bet on for the 2023 Top 10 podium?
«Well... Henrik von Eckermann who may be riding King Edward or Ben Maher who is in terrific form. Third option definitely a Swiss, Steve or Martin. Last year I rode in the Rolex IJRC Top 10 for the first time and made two mistakes in the first round. This year I would definitely like to do better....».
You’ve been long-listed for the Olympics… Let's play a little game: enter your stable and think about Paris 2024. What is the first box you look at?
«I have two very good horses to choose from for Paris: Dubai du Cedre and Donatello d'Auge. It is a very important opportunity for me and for France. In the end I will choose to compete with the one that will arrive in the best shape at the Olympic event».