ENGLISH TEXTS lighting how other sports complement their amateur racing practice .
HÉLÈNE SOURBÉ Licensed since 2014 , plays basketball . I missed team sports , and since my job involves being around horses , basketball allows me to disconnect from my usual environment from time to time . It greatly benefits my physical and mental condition , especially by working on cardio , and complements horse racing well . On the other hand , riding has brought me valuable skills for basketball , particularly mental resilience and composure .
CATHERINE RIEB-MENARD Licensed since 1999 , first woman to triumph in Mauritius , competes in track and road running , triathlon , and winter biathlon . These sports bring me balance and strengthen essential skills for performing well on horseback . Stamina and endurance are crucial for sustaining effort and managing energy , as is breath control . Often underestimated , breathing is fundamental for achieving peak performance , just like mental strength , regardless of the discipline . Being an amateur jockey , however , has given me a specific approach to competition , especially in triathlon , where I manage the course better . Other disciplines require longer physical and cardiovascular efforts , demanding greater endurance compared to horse races , which require maximum intensity over a short duration .
Next challenge :
French Championships , 10 km .
EARINE DUBOURG Licensed since May 2021 , plays rugby . Rugby helps me better assess my surroundings during races , anticipate reactions , and make quick decisions . It also improves my reflexes and ability to analyze the peloton ’ s dynamics in real-time . Racing , in turn , has taught me how to handle speed , risk , and uncertainty without hesitation , which allows me to be fearless and engage in direct competition . Both sports require a high tolerance for physical impact and demand significant endurance and explosiveness . What I love about rugby is the team spirit and the length of the match , which allows for a collective build-up to victory .
NICCOLO GUARNIERI Licensed since October 2024 , former football player until 2023 . Football provides several benefits , including physical conditioning and strong legs , which help maintain good balance on horseback . What I loved most about football was the teamwork — the team , teammates , and coaches felt like a second family , and I would have done anything for them . Stepping onto the field made me forget everything on my mind , and I experience the same feeling when I ’ m on a horse , as if a special bond forms between me and the horse .
Next challenge :
Winning my first race , then aiming for the Cravache d ’ Or .
ROMAIN LEMIERE Licensed since 2014 , practices running . Running improves physical fitness , boosts self-confidence and reduces stress . It pushes you to go beyond your limits and embrace the challenge . While both sports involve being alone in front of the goal , races go by extremely fast . Quick decision-making and perseverance are particularly important . In both disciplines , cardio , endurance , and coordination are key . Running helps me manage effort better during races , allowing me to ride multiple events in a day without being completely exhausted .
Next challenge :
Paris Marathon on April 13 .
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