What makes a great rider? ‘Understanding how to train a horse both mentally and physically,’ says Olympic champion

Christian Kukuk won the individual gold medal in the Olympic showjumping final. He believes that great riders understand how to train a horse physically and mentally. — Christian Kukuk and Checker 47 in action during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where they won individual gold.

Olympic showjumping champion Christian Kukuk was recently honoured with the Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete Award at a ceremony in Abu Dhabi, saying: “To be called the best athlete of 2024 is incredible”. The German rider is known for his meticulous care and sensitivity toward his horses and, although he didn’t even start riding until […]