Final Stop Before the Pony Europeans: Meet Esmae, Isabella and Fabienne

Meet the Riders

Esmae (15) lives in Hulsberg, Limburg, and is in her third year of Gymnasium. Her older sister Feline is also active in equestrian sport. When asked what she enjoys besides horses, she simply can’t think of anything else.
Isabella (15), from Woerden, is in her final year of secondary school (MAVO). She has four younger brothers and one sister and enjoys the beach or a sunny terrace when not riding.
Fabienne is the youngest of the group at 12 years old. She lives in Asten, has a younger brother, and is in her final year of primary school. Outside her own riding, she loves helping out at her grandparents’ farm.

Looking Ahead

Though still young, they already have ideas about their futures.
Fabienne: “I definitely want to stay in the horse world and ride at the highest level if I can – preferably at my grandparents' farm.”
Isabella: “I’ll never stop riding, but I don’t see my professional future in horses. I want to go into real estate like my dad.”
Esmae: “I want to stay involved with horses too, but more as a veterinarian, specializing in equines. I’ll always keep riding – I’d miss it too much.”

Their First CHIO

None of the three have consciously experienced CHIO Rotterdam before. Esmae has heard great stories, especially about the magical location in the woods. Fabienne might have been there as a toddler but doesn’t remember. Fabienne: “I really hope to be among the eight selected. If I make it, I won’t be more nervous – it’ll go how it goes.” Isabella: “This is my final year in ponies, and I want to enjoy every minute. Rotterdam has such a great reputation – I can’t wait.” Esmae: “If I qualify, I know it’ll be a big moment, and I’ll feel the pressure – but that’s part of it. It’ll be an incredible experience either way.”

First Observation
They’ve already had their first trial in Tolbert. Esmae: “The first day went better than expected. The second day wasn’t as strong, but I qualified for the freestyle and ended up sixth overall, third among the Dutch.” Isabella: “I needed to find my rhythm on day one, but improved a lot afterward. I was really happy with that – we’re still building our season.” Fabienne: “I was pleased overall. My pony swapped leads in the counter canter – I probably practiced too many changes at home. But otherwise, I was really happy.” Preparing for Rotterdam How will they prepare if selected for CHIO? Fabienne: “Nothing special. I’ll just keep up with my weekly lessons.” Isabella: “My pony and I need to be physically and mentally fit – that’s my main focus.” Esmae: “I don’t train differently, but I do prepare consciously. I’ll give my pony some extra relaxation – a trail ride, maybe even bareback.”

Role Models
Esmae: “I admire riders who can ride multiple horses at a high level – that’s real feel.” Isabella: “For me, it’s Cathrine Dufour – she rides with so much harmony and energy. She’s not only a great rider but also a wonderful person to her horses.” Fabienne: “My role models are my grandpa, for his feel, and Bert Rutten because he can make every horse going great.”

Quirks & Wake-Up Calls

Despite their calm competition composure, they giggle like any girls their age. Fabienne: “I can’t sit still. I ask my mom a hundred times a day what’s next. You can wake me up for a good pony – jumping or dressage – there’s always room for one more.” Isabella: “I’m superstitious. If I had a good show, I’ll wear the exact same outfit next time. And I’m really tidy – my tack room is immaculate. You can always wake me up to train or compete.” Esmae: “My pony’s stable must be spotless before I come in at night. One dropping? It’s out. And he gets sugar cubes at fixed moments – before mounting, entering the ring – every time. I hope you still take me seriously!”

Meet the Ponies

Time to talk about their partners in crime – all three ponies are family-owned. Esmae: “Strandgaards Do It My Way is an 11-year-old liver chestnut gelding (1.44m). He’s quirky – not a fan of my dad, always trying to nip passers-by. He won’t load unless another pony is already on the truck. But he’s amazing.” Isabella: “First Hummer is a 13-year-old palomino (1.48m). We’ve had him for four years. He loves chopped apples and gets mash every evening. He’s playful but super willing.” Fabienne: “Wrong is Right is a 7-year-old buckskin. My mom bought him as a yearling and I trained him myself. He’s kind, eager to work, and I think he’s amazing.” Favorite Competitions Even at their age, they’ve seen a lot of shows. Fabienne: “I like all shows – I’m just happy to be out competing.” Isabella: “Indoor Friesland – I competed internationally there last year and it was so well organized.” Esmae: “I don’t really have a favorite – as long as it’s well-run for both rider and pony.”

When Pony Time Ends

The hardest question: What happens when they outgrow their ponies? Fabienne: “I want to keep him as long as I can, but eventually he’ll be sold.” Isabella: “This is my last year with Hummer. He won’t stay for a next generation, but he deserves a great new home. He’s my superstar.” Esmae: “I hope I stop growing so I can ride him another year. But if not, he’ll have to be sold too.”

Closing Thoughts

We let the girls wrap it up themselves. Isabella: “Our ponies are athletes. It’s our job to care for them and keep them happy.” Esmae: “I want to spotlight my pony. I didn’t even want to try him at first – he looked small and chunky. But once I got on, I was hooked. He’s incredible.” Fabienne: “Thank you to CHIO Rotterdam for highlighting the pony selection – and for choosing me to be part of this interview.”

We thank you – Esmae, Isabella, and Fabienne – for the warm and open chat. You nailed it, even without media experience. Best of luck in Exloo, and hopefully we’ll see you Saturday, June 21st in the Kralingse Bos!