Rodrigo Pessoa: “Mental pressure starts with the parents … they have to realize their first job is being parent not coach or business owner…”

Earlier, Pessoa already spoke about the evolution of the sport and how – despite that – understanding horses remains the foundation! The multiple champion does, however, recognize another issue in our sport… the mental pressure. “Too many parents put too much pressure on their children. A good rider is born from enjoyment and a sense of responsibility. Children need to enjoy horseback riding while also understanding that they have a responsibility towards the horse and the investments that have been made. Parents who focus too much on the latter forget that, first and foremost, they are parents!”