Mans Thijssen was born and raised in an equestrian family. Having started his riding journey as a young kid, he is today an experienced show jumper who aims to make it to the top. Join us as we talk about his career and what it’s like to be able to share his passion with his family.

About Mans Thijssen

• Born: 29 October, 2002

• Lives in: Sevenum, Netherlands 🇳🇱

• Occupation: Show Jumper

• Instagram: @mans.thijssen
  
  

For someone who does not know you, how would you describe Mans Thijssen?

– ⁠A difficult question, but I think I would describe myself as a young ambitious rider trying to work his way up in equestrian sport. And as always trying to stay positive.

⁠How and when did you begin your riding journey? 

– My riding journey began when I was born. I grew up in an equestrian family with all my family members being involved in the sport. At a young age, I started with the ponies, but I stopped riding for a while to try sports like football. But eventually, around the age of 13/14, I picked it back up and never wanted to stop again – my love for horses and the sport started there. 

⁠Equestrian-related or not, who or what inspires you?

– The two persons who have inspired me the most, and still do, are my parents Leon and Dorien Thijssen. I've always looked up to them, both in terms of the sport and the business they’ve built up together over the years. 

⁠Can you describe a particular horse you've worked with that has made a lasting impact on you? What made this horse special?

– ⁠Of course, there are multiple horses that have made a lasting impact on me, but if I have to name one, it’s Hello which I’m still riding currently. This stallion, that has a great fighter mentality, really helped me in my career, from riding my first 5* to winning my first GP. He is really willing to fight and work for you and has given me many good results in my career over the years. Also, a horse called Charlie was a great schoolmaster for me when I started riding – he is enjoying his retirement right now.

“Basically, almost everything I know, my parents and my two sisters taught me. And we keep learning from each other on a daily basis.”

– ⁠Mans Thijssen

How do you think growing up with siblings who share your passion for show jumping has shaped your approach to the sport?

– ⁠I think it has shaped my approach to the sport in a good way; we all share the same passion for the sport and the horses. We can help each other get a different view on something when needed. We try to help each other as much as possible.

What have you learned from each other?

– I’ve learned a lot from my family. Basically, almost everything I know, my parents and my two sisters taught me. And we keep learning from each other on a daily basis. As soon as we see something one of us needs help with, we always try to help each other out. 

⁠Do you have any rituals or routines before a big show that help you stay focused and calm?

– ⁠Actually, I don’t really have any rituals or special routines before shows. I try to do the same things before every show – regardless of whether it’s a national or a 5*. I don’t really change my standard routine; I just always try to keep my calm and stick to it.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in show jumping?

– It’s a bit cliche, but my advice would be to always work hard for what you want and listen to the people around you; no one can do everything on their own. So, take the advice when it’s given to you. 

What is your long-term goal in equestrian sport?

– My long-term goal is to keep going like I am, become part of the top of the jumping world, and make a living doing what I like the most, just like my parents did. 

Which are your favorite MD products? 

– I don’t have one or two favorite products; all products I’ve used from Maya Delorez have been my favorite products. From polos, sweaters, and breeches to hats or bags. Everything is made of the best quality fabric and is very comfortable to work in. 

“⁠I’m very excited to work together with an innovative and quality brand like Maya Delorez. I’m looking forward to being part of the ‘Maya Delorez journey’. Supplying rider, groom, and horse with the most comfortable products.”

– ⁠Mans Thijssen