The rise of Gilles Thomas: a Belgian showjumper’s journey

(c) Mackenzie Clark – Gilles Thomas – GCL Madrid 2024

Gilles Thomas, a name that resonates within the show jumping community, has quickly ascended the ranks to become one of Belgium’s premier equestrians. In a candid interview, Gilles shared insights into his journey, career highlights, training routines, and aspirations for the future.

Early Beginnings and Inspirations

“I started actually very early because I was, yeah, born in a horse family. Horses were always there. So, from when I was very little, I was already interested a lot in the horses, so I started riding ponies, just straight away,” Gilles reminisced. His early exposure to the sport was further fueled by his uncle, Marek van Dijk, a top-level showjumper who became his idol. “He was riding at the highest level in the sport, and he was a bit my idol at that time. I also wanted to do the same sport, the show jumping, because, yeah, I wanted to do the same as him.”

Career Highlights

Reflecting on his career, Gilles finds it challenging to pinpoint a single highlight. “Oh, my career highlights. It’s a bit difficult to say. In the youth, I had many good results.

Maybe in 2016, in the Juniors, I won a lot. I won a Belgian championship, European championship team, and individual.” These early successes set the stage for his senior career, where he achieved notable victories. “My first five-star Grand Prix win in Hichstead in 2022 with Aretino was a big achievement. Also, the Nation’s Cup final that we won in Barcelona.”

One of his most cherished moments came more recently. “Maybe the most highlight in my career so far was becoming Belgian champion last summer with Ermitage Kalone in Lanaken. It was not the highest level, but everything around it was significant. Due to my title, Ermitage got really famous. The owner decided to leave him with me so I could ride him this year as well.”

Training and Partnership with Horses

Gilles’ training routine varies depending on the horse. “With my older horses, I just try to keep them fit. They don’t really jump a lot at home because they have already experienced a lot. My younger horses, seven and eight years old, jump maybe once or twice a week.” He emphasizes the mental state of the horses, noting, “If they don’t want to do it, they won’t do it.”

The bond between a rider and their horse is paramount for Gilles. “Partnership with your horses is indeed very important. At the end, they have to jump, and they have to want to do it for you as well. Spending a lot of time with them helps a lot. You understand them inside out, and they understand you.”

Competition Strategy and Evolution of the Sport

Gilles approaches competitions with a mix of preparation and mental readiness. “If you have the feeling that you go to the show with a well-prepared and good-in-shape horse, then you go into the show with a lot of confidence. I always try to watch some previous runs, mostly good runs, to get a positive vibe and be in a good mood.”

He has witnessed significant changes in the sport over the years. “When I see maybe my uncle competing fifteen or twenty years ago and now, the amount of big shows has changed a lot. Now there are so many big shows. You want to ride a lot, but you have to make a good plan for your horses that you don’t over-jump them.”

Future Aspirations and Olympic Dreams

Looking ahead, Gilles has set his sights on major competitions. “I’m qualified for the Super Grand Prix of the Global Champions Tour. That’s a big thing where I will try to perform as well as possible. Also, there was a show in Aachen last week, which I’ve never competed in. I hope to ride there maybe next year or the year after.”

Like many athletes, the Olympics hold a special place in his heart. “Winning a medal once at a big championship would be very nice. The Olympics, you know, it’s always been a dream. I’m part of it now, but it only starts, so I hope to perform there well.”

Preparation for Paris

Gilles is meticulously preparing for the Paris Olympics with his standout horse, Ermitage Kalone. “Ermitage is still quite young, only ten. Last year, he didn’t do much because he’s also a breeding stallion. This year, I went to Sunshine for three weeks to build him up. They learn a lot there with the massive and spooky jumps. I wanted to get him used to it because, yeah, the Olympics are coming.”

He continues to fine-tune Ermitage’s readiness. “This week, I’m in Valkenswaard with him, jumping just two small

classes to try some things. Then, it’s two weeks at home, keeping him fit and trying to have him in the best shape possible. So far, everything is going well.”

Looking Ahead

As Gilles Thomas prepares for the biggest stage in sports, he remains grounded in his love for show jumping and the deep connections he shares with his horses. His journey is a testament to passion, dedication, and the unwavering bond between rider and horse.

Gilles leaves us with a reflective thought: “If you have the feeling that your horse is well-prepared and in good shape, you go into the show with a lot of confidence. It’s about understanding each other and working as a team, both at home and in the ring.”

V. Sozzi

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