Who are you and what is your background?
I am a 31-year-old lawyer and show jumping rider. I’m originally from Tampere, where I ran a private stable for many years. I started riding at the age of seven on my sister’s horse on my grandfather’s farm. Since then, I have been riding and I think I had my first national competition start at the age of 14. My passion has been show jumping, but last year I rode in a dressage team at the Finnish Championships.
Nowadays, my wife Cecilia and I run a riding school called Stall Solbacka in Klaukkala, Nurmijärvi. I have five competition horses and I regularly compete at national and international Grand Prix level. I have worked in many different roles in the horse industry; both as a rider, trainer, owner of a private stable, head of a riding school, breeder, organizer of competitions, farrier, and as a lawyer specializing in the horse industry. I am also a board member of the Equestrian Federation of Finland. Perspectives on the sport have thus come from many different roles, which can be utilized in the development of the Horse Show.
What are your expectations for the new job?
The new job is extremely interesting. I get to work amongst my passion and combine the experiences I have gained from different roles in the industry. I’m looking forward to what the future holds. The relocation of the event to Messukeskus Fair Center in 2026 will be particularly exciting.
What kind of future plans do you have for Helsinki Horse Show?
In the future, I see the Horse Show as a strong event in the horse industry that offers incredible experiences to all participants. The dynamo of the Horse Show event is the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ leg. It will be the final leg of the Western European League from 2026 onwards, which attracts top riders to Helsinki in the future as well.
In addition, due to the relocation to Messukeskus Fair Center, we will be able to create new experiences for visitors. There will be something to see and experience at the event for everyone, from the youngest of the family to the deep enthusiasts of the sport. Only the sky is the limit as to what we can do in the new venue!
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