Experiencing the Intensive Coaching Methods of Roger Yves Bost
In the heart of Europe, 28-year-old Amy Collinson, a promising show jumper from New Zealand, has been honing her skills under the tutelage of French Olympic gold medalist Roger Yves Bost for 18 months.
Bost's team is a close-knit group, with grooms and home riders playing an essential role. Only experienced, horse-friendly individuals are welcomed into the team. Bost shares a deep, meaningful connection with his horses, spending hours with them each day. His wife, Cyrille, serves as the team manager, meticulously organising everything behind the scenes.
Collinson's training under Bost has been challenging, but she has learned invaluable lessons from the experience. One of the key lessons she's learned is the importance of giving horses many short breaks while schooling.
Collinson's journey in Europe began at the age of 22 when she moved to pursue her passion for show jumping. She has trained in various countries, including Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands. However, her path hasn't been without hurdles. Shortly after moving to France, she suffered a tendon injury and a bad fall from a young horse, which affected her progress. Her best horse also sustained a tendon injury around the same time, keeping her out of competition for a few months.
Despite these setbacks, Collinson remains determined. She is planning to start competing again with her most experienced horse, Upsilon D' Austral, in 1.35m - 1.40m classes. Her ultimate goal is to build up to the 2* Grand Prix level and then go further with Upsilon D' Austral.
In addition to her equestrian pursuits, Collinson is considering applying for MBA programs to expand her knowledge and network in Europe. Her ambition is to help her father expand his business into Europe and/or create something of her own to fund her passion. She is also training with the French racing team AGS Racing.
Collinson's dream is to have her own stable in Europe and represent New Zealand at the Olympics. Her family, including her parents, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephew, are all involved in the sport and part of the stable. Bost's son, Nicolas, also has a team of competition horses and can ride Bost's top horses when Bost is away. The farriers and vets work together to share ideas on keeping the horses strong and sound.
Collinson's journey in Europe is a testament to her resilience and dedication. As she continues to train under Bost, she is undoubtedly on her way to achieving her dreams.
