Why these days mattered
Sweden 2025 was not only about lectures and schedules, it was about living together as athletes and as people. From early morning physical preparation to late-night talks at the Villa, every moment was a chance to learn, to share, and to build stronger bonds. The result: sharper skills, deeper knowledge, and friendships that will last long after the seminar.
Strömsholm: where it all began
The journey started in the historic setting of Strömsholm, with riders welcomed at the Thottska Villa. Morning sessions with Emma O’Dwyer introduced practical routines for mobility, activation, and injury prevention, while Sven Holmberg guided the group through the fundamentals of stable economy: budgets, priorities, and decision-making.
Py Jägerden brought the focus to young horses, how to evaluate their conformation, mindset, and development timelines, and how to understand the true costs and risks of bringing them up. Meanwhile, Lars Roepstorff connected footing and biomechanics, showing how surfaces directly influence both performance and welfare.
The evenings were equally valuable: shared dinners, presentations and open discussions that helped transform a group of individuals into a team.
From groundwork to management
The following days deepened the practical side. Karin Morgan demonstrated long-rein work, a reminder of the importance of groundwork for balance and relaxation. Axel Vibe spoke about farriery as a central pillar of performance, stressing the collaboration between rider, farrier, and veterinarian.
Individual meetings with Sven, Valentina, and Giulia allowed each rider to reflect on their personal path, while group Q&A sessions connected theory to daily practice.
Veterinary science at SLU Uppsala
A highlight of the week was the visit to the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Uppsala. Here, veterinary science came to life. Malin Connysson explored equine nutrition and long-term health strategies, while Marie Rodhin guided the group through lameness detection, how to spot early signs and make informed decisions.
The tour of the university’s equine clinic linked theory to practice, showing how research and clinical work directly support equestrian sport at the highest level.
More than knowledge: a 360° growth
What makes the Young Riders Academy unique is that it goes beyond technique. These days in Sweden showed that true growth means combining science, management, horsemanship, and communication with friendship, trust, and curiosity. Riders left not only with new skills, but also with stronger identities as athletes, ready to face the sport with a 360-degree preparation.
Thank you
A heartfelt thank you to all the experts who shared their time and expertise: Emma O’Dwyer, Sven Holmberg, Py Jägerden, Lars Roepstorff, Karin Morgan, Axel Vibe, Valentina, Giulia, Malin Connysson, and Marie Rodhin.
Sweden 2025 was proof once again of what YRA stands for: learning, connecting, growing.
The next session will take place in Geneva during the CHI de Genève, alongside the Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final.