His goal is clear: One day his name is to appear on the legendary winners‘ board in the Main Arena. It was an eventful week at the CHIO Aachen for the Egyptian show-jumper, Nayel Nassar, the current number 27 in the world ranking list. We spoke with him and his wife Jennifer Gates.

Question: Nayel, was it an amazing week?
Nayel Nassar: Definitely an incredible week. We had some fantastic moments, like winning the STAWAG Prize and jumping clear in the Allianz Prize on El Conde, as well as jumping the first clear round of the day in the Rolex Grand Prix on Igor. I’ll never forget how the stadium erupted after that round and how proud I was of my horse in that moment. Honestly, every time I rode in the ring felt so special and I’m very pleased that my horses were able to perform so consistently our first time in Aachen.

Question: How was your experience at Aachen?
Jennifer Gates: Absolutely wonderful. I was overwhelmed at how supportive and encouraging the whole crowd was for each and every one of the riders. Of course it was great to have such wonderful results our first time here, but the experience is one that would be worthwhile regardless of any competition results.
Nayel Nassar: Second to none. Everything is done at such high quality with the highest of standards. You can tell from the moment you enter the showgrounds that the place is special in every sense of the word. The attention to detail and passion for sport resonates throughout the show and it simply motivates you so much more as an athlete.

Question: Jennifer, you must be very proud of him?
Jennifer Gates: I’m extremely proud, not only for how hard he works as a rider and how well he rode the entire week, but more importantly for how he always puts the horses first and honors them in everything he does.

Question: Nayel, what are your CHIO Aachen-ambitions?
Nayel Nassar: To win the Rolex Grand Prix!! It’s no secret that every rider dreams of having their name engraved on the Wall of Fame. But most importantly, I hope to make CHIO Aachen a more permanent part of my schedule by staying at the top of my game and remaining among the best riders in the sport. It’s such a unique opportunity to be there, and the more often I can put myself in a position to compete in that historic arena, the more likely it will be for me to win any of the major classes there!

Question: How was your overall experience of the show grounds and atmosphere?
Jennifer Gates: The experience was absolutely perfect from start to finish. The organization, from parking, entry, security, stabling, shops, VIP – it’s all top-class and it’s the best show I have ever been to. We are so grateful for the opportunity and hope to be back again soon!
Nayel Nassar: Literally the best experience you could ask for. From top to bottom, nothing quite compares to CHIO Aachen. Not even close! Thank you a million times over for having us!