Interview conducted by Laura Demaille for Horse Pilot.
Horse Pilot: Hello François, you competed in the World Cup Final show jumping in Gothenburg at the beginning of April, finishing in the top 15 of a thrilling final… This competition marked the end of the Indoor season and the start of your Outdoor season.
How did you define your goals for the upcoming events? What was the starting point of your thinking?
François Mathy: The first thing to notice is that the Indoor season ends very late for those who compete in the World Cup Final (early April). We suddenly go from the end of the Indoor season into the heart of the Outdoor season, whereas many riders had a chance to prepare with winter tours like Oliva or Vilamoura. Because of this, the transition for riders who competed in this final, especially with our top horses, is more abrupt, so it is something to take into account.
Every year we have goals that are, let’s say, "imposed" by the calendar. For example, this year it will be the European Championships to qualify for the Olympic Games the following year. It is therefore important to clearly define the different goals and their timing.
Of course, these are deadlines that require selection, which means producing results throughout the season. Especially in Belgium, where the level is very high, we already have a competition schedule at the beginning of the season with the selector, but it must also adapt to regulatory constraints (with the new system introduced by the FEI in the 1st league).
So in addition to calendar constraints, other elements come into play?
FM: Exactly, you have to adapt to these regulatory constraints to establish the season schedule. Between that, the selection process, and invitations, it is crucial to have an adaptive schedule. For example, I was hoping to go to Windsor next week, but only 38 riders can participate, and the Ranking will determine who goes.
Beyond external constraints, the horses’ condition will play a role. Long-term preparation is important, but plans B or even C are necessary to handle the different constraints.
The importance of the calendar and organization to support your ambitions. Regarding the horses, what is their role in this preparation?
Do you adapt the horses to the events or choose competitions based on the horses?
FM: For me, my string of horses is divided between my top horses competing at 5* and the young horses. This runs in parallel. Of course, not all horses have the same objectives; the schedule is built according to the top horses and their calendar constraints. At the same time, I work on developing and training my young horses, which I like to ride myself. They have their own circuit suited to their individual objectives.
You have students whom you train and accompany on the competition grounds. How do you determine their objectives?
FM: It is definitely more complicated at the top level, but there are competitions, like this weekend in St Tropez, where both were entered, which helps me follow them. One, for example, will focus more on progression and development throughout the season, while the other aims to prepare for the Pan American Games. So the schedule and work will be different.
Once you have defined each schedule, how do you build the training program at home?
FM: I personally train the horses a lot at the stables. Depending on competition frequency and results, I like to do small exercises at home, combinations, small courses… As well as psychological preparation. One of the advantages in Belgium is that we can regularly rent arenas and jump outdoors, to break the routine, keep them sharp, and work on what went wrong during competitions.
As a rider, physically, how do you prepare for the season?
FM: Every Tuesday we have a fitness coach who comes for muscle strengthening, mostly preventative and adapted to riding. We mainly work on the back and abductors. The session lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, and you feel it the next days! Considering my size (1.96 m), it is very important to take care of this, to stay fit and in shape.
For your students, is there mental preparation or a method to approach competitions?
FM: I focus a lot on mental work before the event, in the paddock, to reduce pressure, help them concentrate, and put them in the best conditions to perform. I also do a debrief after the event, which is very important for analyzing short-term and long-term improvement points. Based on that, we also have a dressage coach who comes every Tuesday to the stables, and all students and team members attend!
Long-term and adaptive planning, preparation of horses and riders, and mental management! Final advice for riders starting or continuing their outdoor season
What is the key to reaching your goals, in your opinion?
FM: "He who wants to go far, takes care of his horse"! You need to manage your goals according to the horse’s condition. Don’t go too fast. It’s easy to get carried away after a good round. Sometimes you have to step back to keep your horse comfortable and relaxed. Of course, you have to fight for your goals and give your best, but it goes through proper horse management.
Thanks to our Pilot and Belgian athlete for taking the time to share a few moments with us for this interview!
