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Looking back at 2020 – with Edward Levy: "Sometimes it is maybe good to slow down a bit, breathe and come back stronger”

Monday, 28 December 2020
Interview

Photo © Jenny Abrahamsson for World of Showjumping.
Edward Levy. Photo © Jenny Abrahamsson for World of Showjumping.

 

Text © World of Showjumping

 


 

Over the next few days, WoSJ asks chef d’equipes, grooms, riders and show organisers to look back at 2020 – a year out of the ordinary for absolutely everyone. Next out is French rider Edward Levy, who came back from the first lockdown in great form – to impress with several top results during the year.

“At the beginning of the year, I was showing as normal,” Levy tells. “When the first lockdown came in March, it was a stop to our lives as we knew it. During the first few weeks, we were not sure what was happening. I think many still thought that the shows would return soon, but that was not the case. Without any idea about the future, we gave our horses a holiday.”

At the end of the lockdown, I tried to live with more tranquility and less pressure – to really enjoy life.

“Prior to the lockdown, my team and I had been really busy at times – with all the shows, training and travelling. With the lockdown, our days became quiet. I enjoyed it, because it was the first time in years that I could wake up in the morning without feeling pressure for myself, my team or my horses. When the shows started again, I was in good shape. As a person I was feeling well, I had gotten some rest and was happy to ride and show again. My horses were in good shape too, so we had a great summer with many top results. My horses kept their good shape throughout the year, and I am happy with my results. For sure, what we have lived through is historic: The world has been turned off and still today, we don’t know what is going to happen next.”

“2020 taught me a few things,” Levys says. “First of all; to be motivated is a good thing and that is how I am – I am very passionate about my work. However, I understood that when we are rested – feeling good and calm without the busy schedule of travelling every week – perhaps we are even better. Better with our riding, better with our horses and maybe even more efficient."

It is all about finding the right balance: If we don’t do enough, we are not in the ideal rhythm for the big sport, but sometimes it is maybe good to slow down a bit, breathe and come back stronger.

“For 2021, I hope that the world finds its way back to a normal rhythm and that we all have good health. For the sport, I hope to be a part of some big events – I have a good group of horses now. I hope to continue with my team; to work hard and to improve – always,” Levy closes off.

 

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