She has the international arena at her feet. Meet MD athlete Paris Vandousselaere, the Belgian show jumper who joined Team Hagenhorst in 2026 to pursue her career at the international level. Driven by hard work and a positive mindset, she now describes her life as “every equestrian’s dream” – continuing to gain valuable experience along the way.

About Paris Vandousselaere

• Born: July 13, 2006

• Lives in: As, Belgium

• Competes for: Belgium 🇧🇪

• Discipline: Show jumping

• Instagram: @paris_vandousselaere
  
  

For someone who doesn’t know you, how would you describe yourself?

– I would say that I’m a girl who is kind of “square,” haha, but I’m always trying to do my best and do the right thing! 

How did you first get into horses?

– I grew up in a horse family. All of my siblings rode, or are still riding – so being an equestrian has always been a natural part of my life. I got on a pony before I could walk. 

Can you tell us a bit about where you’re based right now?

– Since January 2026, I’ve been based in As, Belgium, with Team Hagenhorst. I’m really happy to be here – it’s a nice team, and I think a lot of great things are coming.

What does a typical day look like for you? What are your daily routines or chores?

– We start every morning by feeding the horses and cleaning the stalls together. After that, I start riding and continue throughout the day. Every equestrian’s dream life, I believe!

“I think giving up has never been, and never will be, an option for me. I always try to see the positives and keep going.”

– Paris Vandousselaere

Can you tell us a bit about your top horses at the moment?

– My top horses at the moment are Chacco’s Girl and L’Eperon-S. Chacco’s Girl is a mare born in 2011 by Chacco-Blue. She has seen the whole world, and I’m super thankful for the opportunity to ride a horse like her. She’s quite a diva, but also an incredibly sweet mare both in and out of the ring.My other top horse is L’Eperon-S, a gelding born in 2016 by Carrera VDL. He’s just the best boy! He’s one of those horses who never lets you down and always takes you to the finish line.

What would you say are your biggest strengths as a show jumper?

– I think giving up has never been, and never will be, an option for me. I always try to see the positives and keep going.

Looking back, what has been the most crucial factor in getting you to where you are today?

– I believe moving away and trying to find my own path has been super crucial for my development as an equestrian. I feel like I’ve grown as a person and learned a lot along the way, even though there’s still a long way ahead. 

“First of all, just the feeling you get on a horse is very special. When the surroundings fade away, and you’re one hundred percent focused – nothing compares to that.”

– Paris Vandousselaere

What do you love most about show jumping?

– First of all, just the feeling you get on a horse is very special. When the surroundings fade away, and you’re one hundred percent focused – nothing compares to that.  

What is your biggest goal as a show jumper?

– I actually try not to set too many goals, but rather see what’s possible in the moment. Of course, I want to ride the biggest shows and even win a medal somewhere – but now I’m only focusing on getting better. 

What is your favorite piece/pieces from the Maya Delorez collection?

– I really love the Athlete Breeches – they’re my favorite! But you’ll also see me in the Teddy Jacket 95% of the time, haha.