British Grand Prix rider Emile Faurie is back in the big time after having been the bridesmaid for several years, narrowly missing out on team selection. With Joanne Vaughan's Danish warmblood gelding Elmegardens Marquis (by Michellino) Faurie has been selected as fourth rider on the British team that will compete at the 2011 European Championships in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Joined by Laura Bechtolsheimer on Mistral Hojris, Charlotte Dujardin on Valegro and Carl Hester on Uthopia, Faurie might be writing history next week as the British team are the hot favourites for the team gold medal next week.
"Having been reserve a few times recently I am so happy to be back on the British Team," Faurie told Eurodressage. "I am especially pleased for Joanne, who owns Max, as
both she and I have always believed in the horse's ability. It's a huge
honour and pleasure to be part of such a strong team."
With the Europeans rapidly approaching in five days Faurie has been busy as can be preparing himself, his horse and his lorry for the journey to The Netherlands. "We had a big shopping list and little time! I had a real panic about getting it all. I need not have worried, the support and help has been outstanding," he admitted.
Albion Saddlery checked Faurie's saddle & equipment before lift-off and team veterinarian John McEwen came by Faurie's yard for a final check-up. "John McEwen just gave Max the final going over. All
the papers are signed and we are ready for the off. I can't wait," said Faurie. "Max is in top form and I'm looking forward to competing at the Europeans"
With Faurie and Elmegardens Marquis back in the spotlight, Eurodressage thought it was time to catch up with Emile and discover the person behind the team rider.
Emile, what's your favourite dish?
Faurie: Lobster and chips washed down with Crystal champagne
What is the biggest intellectual joy for you?
Faurie: Watching a great piece of theatre. I recently saw The Rape of Lucrece done in cabaret style with Camille O’Sullivan, which was mind-blowingly brilliant.
What gives you the most artistic pleasure?
Faurie: Seeing wonderful music being performed live
What gives you the most physical pleasure?
Faurie: Being in total harmony with an extremely talented and athletic horse.
What makes you cry?
Faurie: Seeing animals suffer
What annoys you the most?
Faurie: Unfairness. Any one person being treated unfairly, unjustifiably so.
What does heaven look like to you?
Faurie: Me and my friends round the kitchen table with excellent wine and good food
And Hell?
Faurie: Anywhere where an injustice is done.
What is the most beautiful place you've ever visited?
Faurie: To me, the most beautiful place will always be home.
What is the ugliest place you've ever visited?
Faurie: Once I got lost whilst driving from Orlando to Miami, and ended up in a very dubious part of Orlando. It wasn’t pretty...
At what moment were you the happiest in your life?
Faurie: Having been involved in the sport of Dressage for a good 20 years now, where life is a constant series of ups and downs, I feel it’s safer to say that I treat every “up” as a something special.
When were you the saddest in your life?
Faurie: When Virtu died. He was my first serious Grand Prix horse and I felt an extremely close bond with him.
Who would be your favourite one-night stand?
Faurie: Miranda Hart (No Sex Please, I’m British). Anyone who hasn’t heard of her is missing out. She is the funniest woman on earth.
Text and Photos © Astrid Appels
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