Fresh from helping Switzerland claim victory in the Agria Falsterbo Nations Cup, Steve Guerdat leaves Falsterbo with renewed confidence as attention now turns to Sunday’s Rolex Grand Prix presented by Agria and, beyond that, the FEI World Championships in Aachen.

For the Olympic champion, Friday’s Nations Cup carried significance far beyond the team result. It also represented a decisive test for Dynamix de Belhème, who returned to top-level competition after a lengthy break.

“I’m very happy with the way she jumped,” Guerdat explained. “She hadn’t competed for quite a long time after picking up a small injury, so today was an important test. I actually decided that today’s performance would determine whether she would go to Aachen.”

After producing two outstanding clear rounds, Guerdat left the arena with exactly the feeling he had hoped for.

“I liked the way she jumped in the first round, but even more in the second. I’m very happy and relieved because she gave me the green light for the World Championships. Winning the Nations Cup with a double clear is a fantastic feeling, and it gives us great confidence heading towards Aachen.”

Beyond the sporting challenge, Falsterbo continues to hold a special place in the Swiss rider’s heart.

“When you arrive here on Wednesday, you immediately feel something different. Families have come for their holidays, the campsites are full, the atmosphere is relaxed and everyone is here because they love our sport. The weather is beautiful this year and the spectators truly appreciate what we do. It’s a privilege to compete in front of a crowd like this.”

With the Rolex Grand Prix presented by Agria now firmly in his sights, Guerdat believes Falsterbo perfectly represents what makes the Rolex Series so unique.

“The Rolex Series events are among the competitions we all want to win. Venues like Falsterbo, Brussels or Rome are all about the sport. They have incredible traditions, fantastic crowds and an atmosphere that makes these events truly special. There are many weekends when I’m just as happy to compete in a two- or three-star show as in some five-star events, but competitions like Falsterbo are different. They are among the highlights of the season.”

On Sunday, Guerdat will partner ALBFUEHREN'S IASHIN SITTE in the Rolex Grand Prix presented by Agria. Asked about his ambitions, the Swiss rider answered with a smile:

“The goal is simple: to win.”