Mona Hammoudi has been in love with showjumping since she was a child, tagging along to her sister's riding lessons before taking her first jumps at 8 years old. Now 23, she competes at national level and has been vegan since 2019. We asked Mona five questions.
1. Career Beginnings & Motivation
How did you get into showjumping and what motivates you to keep growing in this demanding sport?
When I was very young, around 3 years old, I would tag along with my older sister to her riding lessons. Of course, the most I could do was pony rides, but when I got a bit older I started taking proper lessons myself. By the time I was around 8 or 9 years old, I took my first few jumps. At 13, I rode my first show! I am now 23 and have been in love with showjumping ever since. What motivates me to keep growing and succeeding in this demanding sport is the endless creative energy that circulates between rider and horse. Working with horses asks you to put forth your best mental effort. You are constantly asking your horse questions, and likewise your horse is constantly asking them back. You have to figure out what your horse needs, how to communicate your requests, how much pressure to use in your aids, when to give, when to take, what kind of feeling you are trying to achieve, the list is endless! This creative energy is so rewarding and fulfilling if you approach it with a positive and appreciative attitude.
2. Training & Motivation
Could you give us an insight into your training routine and how you prepare for competitions?
I always start in the morning. I have one horse of my own and also ride several other horses for different owners. What many people don't know about me is that I really, genuinely enjoy flatwork. I have actually competed in several national-level dressage shows! My horses at the moment do not need to jump so much, so I only jump once a week, typically a mini course or a gymnastic depending on what each horse needs. The day before the show, I always love to work my horses on the track; not thinking or asking much, just moving forward and freely. I believe it gets them loose and positive for the upcoming show.
3. Highlights & Experience
What has been your most unforgettable experience, and what have you taken away from it?
So far, my most unforgettable experience was way back in 2016. At just 13 years old, it was my first time going to Europe in the summer to pursue riding and training. In fact, I went solo as part of a summer camp. What made this trip so special is that I realized I wanted horses and showjumping to be a big part of my life. The passion was always there, but this was when I really got a glimpse of the sort of athletic career I wanted to create for myself in the future.
4. Brand Partnership
What drew you to Equinetree, and what do you appreciate most about the products?
As is well known, pretty much all horse-related products consist of animal leather. I have personally been vegan since 2019, so discovering Equinetree really felt like coming upon a treasure. I believe Equinetree is paving a new path in the equestrian world, showing everyone that plant-based leather alternative is just as good as traditional leather tack, if not even better! Reviewing my own use of Equinetree's products, I am especially in awe of how softly they fit on my horses. The leather alternative based on apple pomace has a buttery feel that I imagine my horses are very comfortable in. I have also had fellow riders and trainers compliment my Equinetree tack on numerous occasions, and they are always surprised when I tell them that this is in fact plant-based leather alternative.
5. Goals & Ambition
What are your goals and ambitions for the future?
Ever since I first attended Aachen back in 2018, it has been my dream to compete there. The massive grass arena, the pin-drop silence as the crowd watches, the cheering after a clear round. Incredible! This is a show that, in my opinion, displays the most impressive level of showjumping one could achieve. With that being said, such excellence requires a great rider, a great horse, and of course... great tack. As I continue to grow as a showjumping athlete, it would be an honor to continue representing Equinetree throughout my journey to the highest level of sport.