“Strzegom is friendly for horses, there’s many categories to choose from, the cross country is prepared very well, horses can learn a lot here – Michael Jung shares with us about his experience on Strzegom Horse Trials.

How many times have you started on SHT?

I think I was in Strzegom in 2006 for the first time. I wasn’t here every year but seven or eight times for sure.

Is SHT „the must stop” in your calendar?

In fact, it is. Strzegom has a very good, wide range of categories so many of my horses can compete.

You have taken part in many editions of the SHT. Is SHT changing from year to year?

I think that from the very beginning of that event till now there are some changes, transformations and improvements every year.

You are competing at the biggest events. Is SHT much different from them?

There is a clear difference in what is offered in Strzegom. Other events have two, three categories from which the rider can choose. There are many more of categories in Strzegom and for me personally that’s very good.  

What do you remember most from previous editions of SHT?

Nothing particular really… but I remember World Cup Final 2010. It was something truly special!

Do you have any special memories, anecdotes connected with being in Strzegom?

I can’t recall anything right now but maybe something will happen this year.

Why, in your opinion, top eventing riders start in Strzegom every year?

The reason in my case is that my horses fill very well here and that has an impact on the results. I think that applies to other riders. Strzegom is friendly for horses, there’s many categories to choose from, the cross country is prepared very well, horses can learn a lot here.  

How does your day on competition look like?

First of all, it is preparing to the tests. The start on its own, training of not competing horses. It is also very important to get to know the cross country course and that takes some time. 

Is it a stressful for you?

No I’m not anxious. It’s a typical day for me.

Do you have your special custom, ritual during a competition?

No, not really.

Are you superstitious?

No, I am not superstitious.

And do you know that superstition if cat crosses your path from right to left that’s bad luck? Do you know that superstition in Germany?

Yes, I know it. It is said to be a bad omen in my country as well.

In Poland if you make three steps backwards, misfortune disappears.

I did know about that. I know that superstitious about black cat, but we don’t have that antidote. It’s new for me to step backwards but as I have said I’m not superstitious. 

What are you thinking about before dressage, before cross country and before show jumping?

Three disciplines... so different thoughts and preparation before. You have to concentrate on the test before dressage; you have to have a course of that test in your mind not to forget. Before cross country test you have walk the course carefully, pay attention to details, which might be important during the run. Everything is going very fast during the show jumping test so you have to know the course well. You need to be concentrated. It is quite similar but you have to concentrate on different things.

Your favourite horse for now…?

(4 sec. of hesitation|)… Sam… He’s really unique… That’s horse no. 1.