Corona Times: Hit & Run with Dina Ellermann

Interviews

Hit & Run

In corona times we are all ordered to stay at home, self quarantine, and do social distancing. With more time on your hands to spend online, Eurodressage launches a "Hit & Run" interview series so that you get to know the world's most famous dressage riders and personalities more closely.

Dina Ellermann is Estonia's leading Grand Prix rider, born in Baghdad, Iraq. She has been a trail blazer for her country at international Grand Prix level. She represented Estonia at the 2014 World Equestrian Games, and at the 2015, 2017 and 2019 European Dressage Championships. Her first big international representation was at the 2010 World Championships for Young Dressage Horses, to which she returned in 2013.

Hit & Run - Dina Ellermannn

What is your earliest memory?

I am sitting in my mom's lap in our garden with my sister and my father is taking pictures of us.

Which person alive do you admire the most and why?

My coach Alla Gladõsheva. From her I have learned a lot - how to become a better rider and a better person.

When were you the happiest?

I have had many happy moments. On a personal level, when my sons were born. In dressage - a CDI-W win with my little Estonian Sport Horse mare Landy's Akvarel. And competing at the Europeans in Rotterdam with my young mare, Donna Anna, a horse who has been mine since she was 6 month old.

What is your biggest fear?

I try not to think of fear, because when you are scared, you are just like a magnet, pulling fear closer.

What was your first thought today?

A happy one: I don't need to wake up that early, because my kids are studying at home. Something positive about the corona crisis.

What is your most annoying character trait?

I tend to be late. My fiancé says that I will be late to my own wedding.

Which trait do you dislike the most in other people?

Devious and fake people, who act all nice in front of you – but will stab you in the back whenever they get a chance.

What is your dearest possession?

A bracelet, given to me by my father. I always wear it at the competitions.

If you look into the future, what do you see?

I hope we will get over this crazy and difficult time by helping and caring for one another. I see peace and hope in the future, everything will get better. People will have a greater appreciation for life, having seen how fragile it can be.

What makes you unhappy?

Mean and hurtful people

What is the love of your life?

My family and my horses. I am so lucky to have the opportunity to live the life I have.

What was the best choice you ever took in life?

When I was 12, I went to Tondi Riding School. That is where my riding career began.

What's your guilty pleasure?

Bread with butter and Nutella

What do you owe your parents?

They have always encouraged me to follow my dreams. I am so thankful for my mom and dad for their love and support.

Who can sit next to you at your dream dinner table?

All my family, closest friends and Vin Diesel

What was the worst job you ever did?

I don’t think I have ever had that kind of job. You can learn from doing not-so-pleasant things as well

What was your biggest disappointment in life?

I never think that it is a problem, when things don't go as I wish. There are always solutions. So no major disappointment in my life yet.

What would you change if you can go back into the past?

Nothing. The path I have chosen brought me were I am now. And I love my life.

Name one thing that would improve your quality of life?

There should be more hours in each day. There are too many things on my to-do list.

What is your biggest achievement?

My sons. And my Grand Prix horses.

What is the most important life lesson you have learnt?

I have learned to be humble, patient and thankful

Where would you like to be right now?

I consider myself very lucky to be here, in this moment in my life. At home with my horses and family.

What's your favourite scent?

The fresh smell of spring. After the long Estonian winter it is just fantastic.

Which character would you dress up in for Halloween?

Catwoman

To whom would you like to say sorry?

I try to live my life without hurting anybody’s feelings. If I have done this to somebody – I want to apologize!

What does love feel like for you?

It feels like a mix of care, peace, happiness, and bliss

When are you most relaxed?

At home when I see my kids are happy and I know my horses are safe and happy in the stable.

What super power would you like to have?

The power to heal

When did you last cry, and why?

When I lost my cat. I still hope he will return home.

When were you closest to death?

Luckily have not been there yet!

How do you want to be remembered?

Hopefully as an easy-going and friendly person who has done some good in this world