ENGLISH TEXTS
JDL : The market is fragile , pushing us to focus on producing top-quality horses . The mid-range market is struggling , so we aim for the top tier . However , there ’ s a generally positive momentum to give young people opportunities . I ’ m part of France Galop ’ s “ young commission ” and more young professionals are entering the field . It ’ s important to bring fresh perspectives . New trainers are much more communicative , adding a refreshing dynamic to the industry .
G : How do you address ecological challenges as a breeder ?
JDL : As young people , we ’ re naturally more aware of ecological issues . We try to be mindful of our impact . Working outdoors , we ’ re directly affected by weather patterns . The productivity of our land is directly linked to climate change or persistent rain . We sort waste materials , fertilize our pastures with eco-friendly products and plant hedges and trees . Currently , we ’ re constructing a building equipped with solar panels .
G : What initiative abroad particularly impressed you ?
JDL : I really enjoyed my time at Waikato in New Zealand . Their management and communication with staff are very effective . They place significant importance on workplace well-being . Their team structure is well-organized , with specific leaders and clearly defined roles for everyone . I saw a similar approach at Écurie des Monceaux and with Willie Mullins , where operations are highly structured .
G : What technological tools do you use daily ?
JDL : In breeding , we use Easyfoal , which has been a game-changer for breeders . For training , we rely on Arioneo to monitor horses ’ heart rates during work and analyze recovery times .
� PAGE 42
BACK TO THE ARTICLE �
WILLIAM RIMAUD
Galorama : What is your background , and how is the family transition unfolding ?
William Rimaud : I attended business school and focused all my experiences on horses : Coolmore , the Melbourne Cup and Arqana online . I also participated in creating Aux Courses Les Jeunes . After that , I went to the U . S . to work at Brookdale Farm . I initially planned to stay for six months , but I ended up staying for four years ! When I returned to France , I worked for the Aga Khan Studs before the opportunity arose to join Haras de la Perelle as its Director . Horses have been a part of my family for a long time-they ’ re part of my daily life . My parents always tried to shield us from the sacrifices and constant availability that working with horses requires . But I felt something was missing . You must work hard and prove yourself ; people expect more of me because I ’ m a “ Rimaud .” As I often say , learning comes through sweat .
G : What inspires you most about your parents ’ or family ’ s achievements ?
WR : They started from nothing , arriving in the U . S . with empty pockets . Despite that , they managed to build both a family and a professional career .
I ’ m my father ’ s biggest fan . What I ’ ve learned from him are simple yet essential values : showing respect , addressing people politely , always greeting and thanking others , respecting employees , not resting on one ’ s laurels , and constantly reevaluating horse management practices .
G : One quality and one flaw you inherited from your parents ?
WR : I ’ m generous in life and in the kitchen ! I love cooking ! ( laughs ).
G : How do you balance tradition and innovation ?
WR : It ’ s a 50 / 50 balance . Our elders passed down their expertise , while innovation drives us to try new techniques . Older generations are often more resistant to change , so it takes time to introduce new practices or tools . However , tradition reminds us daily that we can ’ t move faster than nature allows .
G : What would be your ideal pairing in 2025 within your breeding program ?
WR : A proven combination : a mare by Galileo bred to Siyouni .
G : What is your dream ?
WR : To sail around the world . In my family , after horses , we ’ re all passionate about sailing .
G : What is your perspective on the breeding market and its key challenges for 2025 ? What is the role for young people ?
WR : In the U . S . A , the market is remarkable . Globally , it seems strong , but we must remain cautious . Breeding to sell is challenging in an uncertain economic climate . That said , new investors and economic momentum are constantly emerging . Young people are quite present , with fresh faces at all levels of the industry . While making a place for yourself is necessary , it ’ s entirely possible .
G : How do you address ecological challenges as a breeder ?
WR : We manage waste carefully and recycle as much as possible . We
126