People Profile:
Meet an equestrian coach
Did you know that equestrianism is a sport of many disciplines? Eighteen to be exact! From dressage to vaulting and show jumping, there’s something to suit all levels and ages. If you’re looking to leap into the saddle and try something new, hear from coach ROLANDO GONZALEZ about his beloved horses and his work in the stables.
You’re a long way from home in the Dominican Republic. What brought you to Singapore?
A summer job! I saw an ad for a job at a riding club in 2013. Never having been to Asia at that point, I thought why not – let’s give it a go! I now run my own successful equestrian business, Vanderflaken Equestrian Management Services (VEMS).
Tell us about your riding background. Do equestrians run in the family?
As a child, I spent weekends and school holidays with my grandparents on their farm. They had a few horses – nothing fancy, but as kids, my cousins and I would spend our days galloping through endless fields.
When did you get into dressage? Is it true this is the most difficult equestrian discipline?
Dressage is a very fascinating discipline that attracted me from an early stage when I started riding back home. Many find it difficult because it requires more accuracy and precision, but the feeling you get when you and your horse move as one is priceless!
What other areas do you coach in?
I coach both dressage and show jumping. Since moving here, I’ve taught all levels of riders from children to first-timers and seniors. The beauty of this sport is that anyone can ride, and it’s a sport that can be practiced all your life. At the moment, I’m focused mainly on competitive riding. I have a great group of ambitious riders who want to represent their country in international competitions. So far I‘ve taken my riders to compete overseas in countries like China, Germany, Qatar, China, the US, Mexico, Guatemala – and the list keeps going!
Talk us through a typical day at the stables.
We usually start at 7am, preparing the horses for the lessons. I’ll teach till about 10.30am, after which I will school my own or clients’ horses until noon. We have a midday break to organise the yard or do some admin work, then we resume lessons again from 3pm to 7pm.
Tell us about your own horses.
I have three at the moment. Laughing Gravy and Clokey were adopted from the race track here in Singapore and are both off-the-track thoroughbreds. These handsome boys are a big hit with the ladies, while Casper Ben is an Irish Cob – he’s the kids’ favourite!
Where do you get all of the right tack?
The Tack Shop Singapore (thetackshop.sg). It’s owned and managed by one of my students, Audrey – she’s a one-woman show who runs this fantastic equestrian shop tucked away on Orchard Road. They’re the exclusive distributors for several reputable equestrian brands for both horse and rider. My personal favourites are Samshield for helmets and riding attire, and Effax for leather care; Effol is also great for horse care and treats that my boys love!
What does a “day off” look like for you? Any other hobbies?
Coming from the Caribbean, I try and head to the beach with friends any chance I get. I’m also very passionate about food and I love cooking at home. I’ve also recently picked up golf and have just bought my own set of clubs.
To find out more, contact Rolando at admin@vanderflaken.com.
For any of your tack needs, visit thetackshop.sg.