Bernard Fonck Exclusive Q&A

How did you become a professional rider?
I was actually a hobby rider, I started riding professionally because of my wife who was a professional rider already when we met. During her pregnancy I started to compete professionally to keep her horses and clients in the sport.

What’s your biggest success to date?
That’s a difficult question for me. I have been very blessed to be able to be seven times world champion in my association and nine times European champion. I have won all big events in Europe and even some of the big ones in the US. One of the nicest ones for sure was the FEI World Equestrian Games two years ago, that was a very special one.

When did you start competing at the highest level?
I started to compete in reining in 2002. In 2003 I was reserve champion with the rookies and around 2006 I started with the higher levels.

Which horse has been very special and fundamental in your career?
I don’t have just one special horse, but three. It all started with Sail On Top Whizard. With him I won a lot of big events, a lot of Futurities and showed him eight years in the open. The second one is Great Sunburst and the third one is What A Wave. These horses have made a lot possible for me and I had the most success with them.

Who is your biggest supporter?
I think my wife; I don’t just think so I’m sure.

Who has inspired you?
My teacher and inspiration is for sure my wife, she has taught me a lot and still gives me a lot of lessons.

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