Rising star of Saudi show jumping: an interview with Meshari Alharbi

In the world of show jumping, where precision and trust between rider and horse can make all the difference, Meshari Alharbi is making waves as one of Saudi Arabia’s brightest stars. A skilled rider with nearly three decades of experience, Alharbi is not only elevating the sport in his home country but also making a mark on the international stage.

From Passion to Profession

Alharbi’s journey in show jumping began as a passion for both the sport and horses. “I’ve always been driven by the desire to succeed and compete in the biggest events,” he says. “The World Cup, the major show jumping tournaments—these are my goals. I’ve always loved horses, and this sport has been a way to push myself to new heights.”

This drive for success is evident in his work ethic and dedication to training. When asked about a typical training day, Alharbi emphasizes the importance of adapting his approach to each horse. “Every horse is different,” he explains. “Some are naturally competitive, while others need more development. We work closely with our trainers, and it’s about understanding the individual needs of each horse.”

Alharbi trains under the guidance of David Will, the Saudi Arabian team’s chef d’équipe, while Emanuel, his personal trainer, fine-tunes his performance. Based in the Netherlands, a country renowned for its equestrian excellence, Alharbi finds the perfect environment to hone his craft. “The facilities here are world-class, and the level of competition is intense,” he reflects on the role the Netherlands has played in his growth as a rider.

The Growth of Show Jumping in Saudi Arabia

Alharbi’s dedication is part of a broader movement in Saudi Arabia to develop the sport of show jumping. In recent years, the country has made significant progress, with more riders and greater investment in the discipline. “We’re excited about the future,” Alharbi says. “Saudi Arabia is growing in many sports, not just show jumping. There is strong support for athletes, and we want to make our mark on the world stage.”

His pride in representing Saudi Arabia is undeniable. Alharbi believes that the team’s success is not just about individual achievements but also about fostering a sense of unity. “We have great riders, and we’ve grown together as a team,” he says. “We are focused on building the future of Saudi show jumping.”

A Deep Bond with Horses

Like any top-level rider, Alharbi’s success is built on a deep personal connection with his horses. His bond with each horse is forged through time, trust, and understanding. “Every horse is unique,” he explains. “Some of my horses were ridden by others before and didn’t find success. My job is to rebuild their confidence and help them succeed. I talk to them, spend time with them, and work on developing that trust.”

Building trust is crucial in show jumping, where every movement matters. Alharbi’s approach goes beyond physical training; it’s about creating a mental connection that allows the horse to perform at its best.

Overcoming Tough Challenges

Despite his success, Alharbi is no stranger to challenging courses and fierce competition. One of the most demanding events he has faced is the Doha Tour, a prestigious show jumping competition known for its high level of difficulty. “The competition there is tough,” he admits. “It’s not as big as some of the European events, but the quality of the riders and horses is outstanding. Winning there is never easy.”

Alharbi’s resilience is evident in his approach to challenges. “Every rider wants to keep winning, but it’s not just about victories—it’s about improving, learning, and pushing yourself to be better,” he says.

Looking to the Future

Looking ahead, Alharbi remains focused on continuing his evolution as a rider. “I’ve been riding for nearly 30 years now, and I’m always looking toward the future,” he says. “I want better horses, better results, and to contribute to changing the landscape of show jumping in Saudi Arabia.”

While proud of his career so far, he is not one to rest on his achievements. “A good rider is never fully satisfied,” he says with a smile. “If I win today, I’ll want to win again tomorrow. It’s a constant challenge, and that’s what keeps me motivated.”

As Alharbi looks to the future, his dedication to his craft and his country remains unwavering. He is determined to continue representing Saudi Arabia on the global stage and contributing to the growing legacy of show jumping in the Kingdom.

An Athlete with Heart and Vision

Meshari Alharbi’s story is one of dedication, passion, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. Whether competing in international events, fostering the growth of show jumping in Saudi Arabia, or building deep connections with his horses, Alharbi’s journey is just beginning—and it’s clear that the best is yet to come.

V. Sozzi

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