Emanuele Gaudiano: A Journey from Italy to the Pinnacle of Show Jumping

Emanuele Gaudiano has established himself as one of Italy’s foremost talents in international show jumping, known for his fearless approach and precision on course. We had the privilege to speak with Gaudiano about his beginnings, the pivotal decisions that shaped his career, and his thoughts on competing at the highest levels of the sport.

A Family Legacy: “Horses Were in My Blood”

For Gaudiano, show jumping was more than just a sport—it was a family tradition. “My passion for horses started with my father and uncle,” he shared. “They were the first in the family to ride, and growing up around them and our stables, I couldn’t help but fall in love with it.” This early immersion gave him a foundation in the basics of horsemanship, but it was his own drive that transformed a childhood passion into a professional ambition.

Moving to Germany: “The Opportunity Was Unmatched”

In 2005, Gaudiano made a critical decision to relocate to Germany, a move that would catapult his career. Initially intended as a short stint, the temporary arrangement turned permanent when he recognized the potential it held. “Germany was on a different level. There were so many competitions, and the quality of riders and horses was incredible,” he explained. “It wasn’t just about the volume of events; it was the ease of traveling to places like Belgium, France, and the Netherlands, which made competing internationally far more accessible.”

This decision proved vital in allowing him to hone his skills. “Being around that caliber of competition helped me elevate my game. It was inspiring and made me want to push myself even further,” Gaudiano said.

The Horses Who Defined His Career: “Each One Taught Me Something Different”

Over his career, Gaudiano has formed remarkable partnerships with a series of talented horses. Reflecting on his early successes, he credited Uppercut for being a true turning point. “Uppercut was a special horse. He gave me my first taste of success at the senior level, helping me win a silver medal at the European Young Rider Championships. That was a big moment for me.”

Other horses have also left a lasting impact, such as Chicago, Cocoshynsky, and the famously high-jumping Chalou, whose incredible technique earned him the nickname “Superman” on the international circuit. “Chalou has this unbelievable ability to jump,” Gaudiano said with a smile. “He’s strong and agile, and when he’s on the course, people take notice.”

Chalou may be the crowd favorite, but Nikolaj de Music is also a key member of Gaudiano’s team, known for his reliability and speed. “They’re very different horses,” Gaudiano noted, “but both of them are champions in their own right.”

Returning to Italy: “It Felt Like Coming Full Circle”

After nearly two decades abroad, Gaudiano recently made the decision to return to Italy, bringing his career full circle. “I had an incredible time in Germany, but the opportunity to purchase a larger facility in Italy felt right,” he said. The move has allowed him to focus on training and developing his stable of young horses, several promising seven-year- old who have already shown great potential in competitions.

“It was also a family decision,” he added. “Being closer to home, surrounded by family, feels like the right choice after so many years.”

On Staying at the Top: “It Takes Determination, and You Can’t Let Setbacks Get to You”

Holding his place as Italy’s top rider isn’t something Gaudiano takes lightly. “It’s not easy to stay at the top,” he admitted. “It takes discipline, and you need a mix of experienced horses and young, up-and-coming ones.” When asked about handling setbacks, he shared a grounded perspective: “Show jumping is full of ups and downs. Horses aren’t machines; they need time to rest and recover. If they get injured, you have to be patient.”

This resilient attitude helps him stay focused. “I always tell myself to look forward. Whether you’ve won or lost, there’s always the next challenge. That mindset has carried me through the highs and lows.”

Emanuele Gaudiano’s story is one of dedication and passion, driven by a love for horses and an unwavering commitment to the sport. With a stable of young talent, a return to his roots in Italy, and an impressive history of international successes, Gaudiano’s journey continues to inspire riders and fans worldwide.

Valentina Sozzi

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