A Historic Victory for Ecuador at 2024 CDIO Aachen: Julio Mendoza Wins 4* Kur

Shows

2024 CDIO Aachen

-- Text and Photos © Lily Forado

Few words can adequately describe Julio Mendoza's experience at CHIO Aachen 2024. The Ecuadorian rider made history on the penultimate day of competition, bursting onto the scene with force and emerging as the grand champion of the 4* Kur to Music on Saturday night 6 July 2024.

After a short but successful American season with three wins out of four starts in two CDI's in Ocala, Julio fulfilled one of his greatest dreams: to ride on the centerline at CHIO Aachen. Aboard his inseparable partner Jewel’s Goldstrike (by Bretton Woods x Scandic), he warmed up in the Grand Prix with a seventh place, scoring 72.500%.

On Saturday evening Julio smashed the night with a victory in the CDI4* Kur Freestyle. As last to go Julio danced to the rhythm of "Ecuador" by Sash. His first strides to the tune of “Vámonos al viaje para buscar los sonidos mágicos de Ecuador” led to one of the best performances of the night. Musically, his freestyle combines elements of electronic music with rhythms associated with Ecuadorian musical tradition, creating a bridge between the modern and the traditional. He also danced to "Isla Bonita" and "Pon de Replay." Julio shone under lights. The last strides caused the public to explode with delight in a memorable cacophony of shouts and applause. This exceptional performance culminated in an impressive 78.920%, securing him first place in the Kur Freestyle.

July 6, 2024 will be a day to remember, not only for his win but also for it becoming a historic day for Ecuador and international dressage.

Julio has played a fundamental role in promoting dressage internationally and, more specifically, within the Latin community. His strides in Aachen arena epitomized the honour and delight of representing Latin America in the cathedral of dressage. Julio Mendoza, as a clear ambassador for dressage within the Latin community, is ready for his next stop: the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Congratulations on your victory at Aachen! How does it feel to win such a prestigious event in Aachen?

I feel humbled and so grateful to have even been able to ride in that arena, let alone win the Freestyle class. It’s hard to describe the feeling. It’s like a dream.

Tell us about your performance with Jewel’s Goldstrike in the Kur. What were the highlights ?

His canter pirouette into the piaffe pirouette. It felt incredible and going down that last centerline with the crowd clapping along to the passage zig zag was amazing.

Can you tell us more about your music ?

The music we wanted to have something with a little Latin flair that represented Ecuador a bit as well but keeping it fun at the same time. Goldie is a cheerful bright and energetic horse so we wanted something that suited him well.

In what way has your partnership with Jewel’s Goldstrike evolved over the five years you’ve been together? What qualities do you think make Goldie such a successful competitor?

Mendoza thrilled with his Aachen victory

We have come such a long way from the start. But it is his heart that is unique. He always wants to work and please and we have a special bond. In and out of the saddle. He is always looking for me in the barn or field. Always attentive to my every move.

As someone who has achieved a lot of international success, including the Pan-American Games, what advice would you give to aspiring dressage riders from Latin America who dream of competing at the highest levels?

Never give up your dreams. Always dream big and go for it. Work really really hard and make the sacrifices necessary and it will happen. You also must believe in yourself and have the drive.

How does it feel to have this opportunity to represent your country on such a global stage, the Olympic Games?

I'm so honoured and beyond excited, proud and grateful to be the first dressage rider for Ecuador at the Olympics.

Lastly, what message would you like to send to your fans and supporters as you embark on this journey to the Olympics?

I want to thank everyone so much for all the support over the years and for believing in me - it truly takes a village and as most people who know me say for me it take 2 villages to make this happen lol.