We speak with Jeanette Vallvé, a 13-year-old Amazon and member of the Spanish Children's team that has won the bronze medal at the European Dressage Championship.
How does it feel to win a bronze medal at a European Championship at the age of 13?
For me, winning a bronze medal at the age of 13 at a European Championship is a happiness difficult to explain and gives me more strength to move forward.
Can you guide us through your journey here? What were some of the challenges you faced and how did you overcome them?
There is no more secret than continuing to work with enthusiasm on your project. It may not come out as expected, but the important thing is to keep trying. Never give up, be positive and take every opportunity.
Were there any particularly memorable moments during the championship that you would like to share with us?
The moment I was awarded the bronze medal. This medal showed me that all the work done had been worth it
What kind of training and preparation did you undergo to be in top shape for the European Championship?
To be able to reach a European it is necessary to work physically and mentally, something I do together with my coach Marçal Sabé, who guides us and gives us a lot of knowledge and encouragement, always trying to show the best version of myself as that of Zanon.
Who has been your greatest inspiration or role model in your sports career and how have they influenced your vision of sport?
For me, the biggest inspiration as a rider is Cathrine Dufour, for her way of working towards her goals
Winning a medal at the European Championship is no small feat. How did you manage to combine sport with your studies and your personal life?
Combining sport with studies is not easy, I advance the topics a lot and prepare them before training. I also try to make the most of the weekend.
What do you think is the most important thing you have learned from participating in high-level competitions like this?
The most important lesson I take away is: never give up and be positive. Believe in you and your horse to achieve any goal
As a young athlete, how do you stay motivated and focused on your goals, especially during difficult times?
I try to focus on the positive part and that makes me focus my goals of continuing to learn so that someday I can achieve them.
What are your future aspirations in the sport?
In the future I would like to go to an Olympics, always wanting to continue learning and with a lot of work and sacrifice
How has your family contributed to your success in sports?
My family is always giving me support and encouragement. Always looking for the best for me.
They understand the sport a lot and always give me positive advice
What advice would you give to other young athletes who aspire to achieve success in the international arena?
That they do not stop following their objectives, that they continue to work to achieve what they propose
In addition to dressage, do you have other hobbies that you enjoy?
Skiing and all sports in general.
Is there a competition or upcoming event that excites you and you look forward to?
I look forward to the Spanish Championship of Minors, we will try to do it as well as possible