Harrie Smoulders is a Dutch Olympic showjumper and former world number one.

Harrie grew up on his parent’s farm in Brabant, but he didn’t take to riding at first and was scared of jumping. However, an incredible pony built up his confidence and he was soon winning national titles in showjumping, dressage and eventing.

He went on to enjoy an incredible international career, which culminated in 2017 when he won team silver at the European Championships, both the Global Champions Tour and Global Champions League titles, and helped the Dutch team win the Nations Cup Final. The following year he was made world number one.

In this podcast Harrie talks about how he made it to the top of sport – and how he stays there.

Harrie also talks about:

· How he honed his skills with help from the world’s best riders

· What makes him a good student and why he is still always learning 

· His methodical approach with his horses – and not over jumping them

· The importance of taking your time with a new horse

· Enjoying spending more with his family during lockdown

· The amazing pony that got him into riding

· The horses that took him to the top of his sport

· The future of showjumping and why he thinks it will change

We hope you enjoy listening to this podcast as much as we loved making it. To find out more about the helmets Harrie loves – visit www.charlesowen.com