RODRIGOPESSOA

Special Envoy Den Hague 1994

Remarkable horse

Special Envoy was remarkable because he was the horse that really started my career. He was the one that launched me in the great international circuit. I did my first world championships with him and my first Olympics. I've been lucky to have many quality horses, but if I had to choose one, he will always be "Special".

Long time partners

My first sponsor,Moët Chandon, gave me my first contract in 1990. They had already sponsored my father for 17 years, and they were the first important brand I represented.  Currently, I am still working with some of my original sponsors. I've been with AMG for 19 years. I signed my first contract in 1991, at 19. I also work with Rolex and have been doing so since 1997, they have continually showed enthusiasm and support for the sport and my riding. Other brands that I represented are Loro Piana, Sony Ericsson, Embraer.

Our sponsors are what make resources and opportunities possible, without which it would be very difficult for us to find the means to take part in so many competitions under ideal quality.

My great companion

My father. Since the early beginning he has been my greatest support, my major inciter, my supreme coach. Without him, without the experience he's gone through, without the opportunities he's granted me, I guess I would not be here today. My great companion with whom I always had a fantastic relationship, and he is a person to whom I owe a lot.
Talking about my father is difficult, of his qualities that people don't know yet. As a person, the most impressive thing about him is that he finds the time for everybody. This is something so special about him, he makes all effort to help everyone.