Larrazábal thinks it was spectacular to compete against the best riders on the planet

Luis Larrazábal feels quite satisfied with his work in Paris 2024 / Photos: COV Press

For Luis Larrazábal, a member of the Venezuelan delegation at the recently concluded Paris 2024 Olympic Games, participating in the equestrian competition represented fulfilling a dream, because he was able to rub shoulders with the best riders in the world.

In his opinion, being evaluated by demanding judges in the individual jumping event, held at the Château de Versailles, was one of the best experiences of his sporting career.

“The experience has been spectacular. It was truly a privilege to be in the village of Paris with the best athletes in the world. Those days have been special and unique,” he said in an interview with Aloys Marín, a member of the press department of the Venezuelan Olympic Committee (COV).

Position of the athlete

Larrazábal finished 63rd out of 74 participants in the equestrian event held in France. He was one of two natives to be present at the equestrian event.

The other person who had that privilege was Patricia Ferrando, who did not make it past the first round in individual dressage. Both Larrazábal and Ferrando hope to have a good run to return to the Olympics, when they are held in 2028 in Los Angeles, United States.

He recalled that he was unable to excel in Paris 2024 because he was unable to execute the plan designed to overcome the obstacles, as he did not have enough time to better adapt to the Condara model.

“We had a well-planned plan, the mare was fine, so was I, unfortunately we went out on the track and things didn’t go as planned.”

Satisfaction

Larrazábal, who attended the majestic closing ceremony of Paris 2024 held at the Stade de France on Sunday, is satisfied with his performance in France.

He appreciated having gained experience in this type of top-level events, as it will allow him to be more competitive in the near future.

“I’m still here with my head held high. Now it’s time to keep working, one learns from these mistakes and that’s it, I have to train for the next Olympic Games,” he concluded.

Valencia / Joseph Ñambre