Abdelkebir Ouaddar: "Quickly is ready to win the Games"
After jumping clear then withdrawing from the jump-off in the 1.40m, Abdelkebir Ouaddar had the fans on their feet. On Quickly de Kreisker, the rider proved once again that Morocco still has a card to play in Normandy come August.
Why did you want to come to Caen while you’re also competing in the Moroccan championships?
We took advantage of the opportunity to come and train here because it’s a real pleasure, but because it’s also really impressive. When you compete in a stadium, it’s not the same as in a regular arena. We did everything we could to come here because it was really important, both for our confidence and the horses.
Speaking of horses, the stadium can quickly become overwhelming with the crowd, the applause, etc. Do you think it could make Quickly a bit nervous?
No, not at all. He loves to show off and be the centre of attention in the ring. He’s extremely calm during training. But when he’s competing, he gets very proud. The first time I saw this horse compete was at Dinard, with Benjamin Robert. I immediately saw myself riding him. It was love at first sight. He’s really the horse of my dreams.
The Moroccan team came here with four riders. Is this the Games team?
Yes, they’re qualified to participate in the Games. We’re going to do our best to win, in both the team and individual competitions.
What do you think of the welcome here in Caen?
I love the French crowd, and I think it’s reciprocal. They’re really supportive every time we compete, regardless of the event.
What does your schedule look like between now and August?
After the test events, we'll head back to Morocco for the national championship finals. Then, I’ll go to the Paris Eiffel Jumping, and we’re going to try to do London and Chantilly, which will be the real preparation for Quickly. He’s ready to win the Games. And I’m going to do everything I can to.