British-based FEI dressage rider and British Dressage coach Zara Griffiss is set to become Iraq’s first ever international dressage rider after successfully obtaining dual citizenship. Zara said her first main goal is the Asian Games in two years’ time, but she also has bigger dreams. Read on to learn more about the very determined and hugely talented Zara, her ambitions and top tips for success
Tell us about you and your horses
Meet Zara Griffiss. Iraq International FEI dressage rider and British Dressage coach
I always wanted to work with horses from childhood. I admired watching professionals on the TV and at horse of the year and Olympia but was forever wanting to be in the ring rather than watching from the edge.
I think most people can do most things if you try hard enough and put in enough effort and time. I’ve
tried to prove that as my top horse is an Irish sport horse not bred for dressage. Patrick Legg bred him to hunt now here I am on the cusp of GP with him, like I said… just need to keep trying. We can all get there, it’s just tricks in a sandpit.
How did horses come into your life?
I rode from childhood in your basic riding schools etc. I then got bought my own pony (a new Forest) so I joined pony club and learnt most things from there. I loved pony club so much I stayed in until I got kicked out because I became too old. I then went on to show jumping ponies where we did pony qualifiers and BSJA.
When and where do you ride?
Zara and Allegro. The giant 17.3hh “Leggy” is currently working at Grand Prix with a view to potentially competing at the next Asian Games
I ride every single day multiple times a day. I don’t take too many days out of the saddle as I’m a big believer in hard work gets you where you want. I mainly ride in the school training. I’m not a fan of hacking out.
Who do you train with?
My trainer is Nicky Lickley. She knows how much I want this, so she is willing to keep pushing me. She drills in the basics and that’s what I love about her. Even when I just want to play with the tricks all day.
What you and your horses currently working on?
Zara with her new horse Aurora. Zara says ” I’m so exited for our future together. It’s going to take time for us to bond and connect but I really think we are going to be a great team”
I have a new horse Aurora which I’m working on our relationship and building a bond together. This is the first time in a long time I have a bought horse not a home bred. So, I need to take some time to get to know her and her me. My big horse leggy is working at GP level and I’m hoping to take one of them to the next Asian games representing Iraq.
What do you love about riding?
The bond and connection you can have with something that could injure you in seconds. It’s like being a dragon trainer in the movies. I just love it.
What would you like to be doing in the future and do you have any goals?
I am excited to be at the Asian games in two years (see how I said WILL be!) You must believe you will be there, and it will happen! It’s also my dream to be an Olympian so I will forever be aiming for that. I will get there one day.
Have you ever had to deal with nerves in riding?
Zara with Leggy. Zara says “most people can do most things if you try hard enough and put in enough effort and time. I’ve tried to prove that, as my top horse Allegro, is an Irish sport horse not bred for dressage. Patrick Legg bred him to hunt, now here I am on the cusp of GP with him”
Not really, I’m a pretty confident person who doesn’t get nervous about those kinds of things. Now I used to compete on the world stage in karate, that I would get more nervous as I didn’t want to get beat up. Dressage hurts a lot less.
How do you deal with them?
Don’t really get nervous with horses so haven’t had to deal with it. I just talk a lot and maybe that’s what keeps me occupied.
Do you have any rituals before competing?
Don’t ask why, I’m obsessed with moving my saddle forward before a test.
Your Top Tip
Relax! Don’t override your horses. Enjoy every single second you have with them. I have recently
lost one of my wonderful home breds and it broke me. So please enjoy every moment with your babies.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
Less is more when it comes to aids when riding.
Dressage takes a team, who is in your support team?
Owners – Patrick and Ann Legg,
Farrier – James Fairgrieve,
Vets – Fyrnway,
Stud – Twemslow stud,
Trainer – Nicky Lickley,
The Iraqi Federation,
And of course all my friends and family that support us!
Down the Centre Line
Who would be your dream horse to ride?
Dalera
Who is your equestrian hero?
Jessica von Bredow-Werndl. I love that she loves her horses.
If you could have five people to dinner, who would they be?
Elon Musk, Will Ferrell, Freddie Mercury, Princess Dianna and Dahmer
Favourite colour horse?
Palomino
Favourite horse event?
Olympics
Favourite food?
Scallops
Favourite way to relax?
Watching horror movies!
Favourite film?
Just one?! No way… Arrivals, The possession, The pope’s exorcist.
Want More?
If you enjoyed meeting Zara you might like to view more dressage rider “chatting with” interviews here . You can keep up with Zara’s progress and check out her instagram page here
