Samantha Cesnik - English
Can you introduce yourself in a few words and tell us about your education and evolution?
Certainly! My name is Samantha Cesnik, and I hail from Australia. I've been riding for 20 years, with a decade of experience in the FEI, if not a little longer. At our facility back home, we focus on training eventing horses, equine rehabilitation, and developing riders. My partner and I launched this venture together about eight years ago.
Before that, we were both pursuing our own paths. I had a conventional job and remained an amateur for many years before turning professional eight years ago. This is my first five-star horse, and it's also my inaugural competition in Europe.
What are your plans for the next week?
Looking ahead, my horse will compete here, after which she will enjoy a well-deserved holiday in France. Next year, we hope to kick off at Montelibri in Italy before heading to England for Badminton, and then potentially Burghley later in the year. We don’t plan to take this horse back home; instead, we aim to bring other horses to Europe next year.
If you were an animal, what would you be and why?
I think I’d be some sort of monkey with a long tail, just so I could make good use of it!
If you were a colour, what would you be and why?
A colour? Perhaps red, because it symbolizes speed.
If you were an object, what would you be?
I would be a bottle of wine.
If you were a work of art, what would you be?
An abstract painting.
If you were a song, what would you be?
I’d be Dolly Parton’s "Boots Are Made for Walkin’." Why not?
In the dynamic world of equestrianism, certain stories shine through with their passion and dedication. Samantha Cesnik, hailing from Australia, embodies this commitment. With 20 years of riding experience, including a decade at the international FEI level, she has devoted her life to training eventing horses and nurturing aspiring riders. Alongside her partner, she established a family-run facility eight years ago, which has become a haven for equine rehabilitation and rider development.
As she prepares for a pivotal European competition with her first five-star horse, Samantha reflects on her dreams of competing in the Olympics and the everyday challenges she faces. Join us as she shares her remarkable journey, her aspirations for the future, and the deep bond she cultivates with her horses.
© Photo du Moulin
A few words about your best horse?
My best horse is remarkable. She has truly been the horse of my career thus far. Brave and spirited, she has very strong opinions and makes her needs known. Building a relationship with her has been essential, and she always gives her best for me. We support each other in this journey, and I hope she can shine in Europe, whether at this show, as she’s a bit tired from travel, or in the upcoming competitions.
How would you describe the Pau events?
Ah, yes—croissants! The food here is exceptional, which we absolutely love. The facilities are top-notch, and the cross-country course is beautifully presented. I feel for the organizers regarding the weather; such is the nature of eventing. Overall, it’s a splendid international show, and it’s wonderful to be surrounded by so many competitors in such a vibrant year.
For you, what is the place of ethology and equine well-being in high-level sport? Do you think that equine ethology and well-being are sufficiently taken into account in the equestrian environment?
I think we need to educate ourselves and the public about animal training and behavior, so we can hold our sport accountable to animal learning principles. We must also be careful not to become too humanistic about horses needs. Education is key to welfare."
If you were a monument, what would you be?
Today, I would say the Eiffel Tower.
If you were a profession, what would you be?
I believe I’m already in the profession I desire—riding horses.
If you were a horse, what would you be and why?
That’s a fascinating question. I think I would choose to ride Michael Jung’s horse: La Biosthetique Sam FBW, simply for the experience of schooling such a remarkable horse.
If you were an equestrian discipline, what would you be?
Eventing, without a doubt, especially the cross-country phase.
And if you were a competition, what would you be and why?
I have a great affection for the Adelaide Five Star; it’s an incredible event.
Now, looking ahead to ten years, where do you see yourself?
In ten years, I hope to still be immersed in eventing. Competing at the Brisbane Olympics would be a dream—there's something truly special about an Olympics held on home soil. Whether that becomes a reality, only time will tell