Riding into Excellence: Andrea Calabro at Fieracavalli Verona

schedule

09/11/2023

Italy’s Premier Equestrian Event Kicks Off

Today marks the official start of the 125th Fieracavalli Verona, Italy’s most significant equestrian event. While awaiting the first categories of the CSI5–W scheduled for tomorrow, the Horseshowjumping.tv team interviewed a promising Italian rider, Andrea Calabro.

Italian Contenders: 19 Riders Ready to Shine

The home crowd is ready to support all 19 riders representing Italy in this leg of the World Cup. Calabro’s Equine Companions: Jhe Thros and Nalou Of Greenhill Z Calabro has brought Jhe Thros and Nalou Of Greenhill Z, poised to enter the Verona Jumping arena in Pavilion 8. The Newcomer: Jhe Thros “He is a 9-year-old horse we co-own with a Dutch trader. We’ve only been together for two months, our first 1.50m competition was last weekend in Opglabbeek in a 3. He’s only 9, so he’s new to the 5* categories. I hope that next year he can gain good experience to move up a category.”

The Veteran: Nalou Of Greenhill Z

“The other one is a 12-year-old mare, Nabab De Rev x Corner Obolensky, so superb genetics. She has just recovered from a minor injury, but I feel she’s fit for this weekend. I had already ridden Nalou in several important competitions last year, and with her, I achieved excellent placements in CSI4* in Gijon. It’s the first time I ride her indoors, so it will be interesting to see how it goes.”

Weekend Aspirations and Challenges
Andrea Calabro shared his goals for the weekend in Verona, emphasizing the importance of representing Italy in this prestigious event.

“I’m waiting for the return of another important horse of mine, That’s Me, the one I participated with in the Rome Grand Prix last year. Unfortunately, he also had a minor injury, so we hope for a recovery phase.” He continued, “I couldn’t have him here in top form, but we’re looking forward to next year to aim again for the Italian Championships and maybe Piazza di Siena.”

Verona’s Special Magic

When asked why Fiera Cavalli Verona is so special to him, Andrea replied: “Certainly, the home crowd is perhaps the most beautiful thing. We are eager to give our best in this edition; it’s my second time here. I participated in 2016 as an under-25 rider, and we hope to do even better this year.”

Guidance for Aspiring Riders

Andrea concluded the interview with advice for young riders aspiring to turn their passion into a profession: “Certainly, my advice is always to follow your dreams without ever giving up and to move forward with great determination.”