Lina Dolk x AS

Lina Dolk was born in 1997 and lives on a lovely horse farm with her family in Sparreholm. She runs the company Dolk Dressage where she runs training and competes with great success on an international level. Together with her groom Tilde de Wrang, she also has a podcast called "Hur svårt kan de va?" where they talk about everything you can think of in equestrian sports.

Lina is one of our ambassadors not only for her ambitious successful career but also for her admirable horsemanship. She puts the well-being of her horses first and treats them individually as the horses they are. Some of her horses go out 24 hours a day regardless of the weather and she brings out the best qualities in every horse.

 

LINA´S TIPS TO BECOME A BETTER RIDER

• Eat well
• Sleep well
• Make sure that you are in good time for trainings
• Don't stress
• Exercise regularly, for example strength training and runs
• Watch a lot of riding, regardless of level. Out and watch people ride
• Sit with the trainer and listen 
• Ride many different types of horses
• Get to know the horse from the ground

 

GET TO KNOW LINA

What does your everyday life look like?

I usually wake up at 06.00 and I am in the stable at 07.00. The first hour of the day is spent with a run or in the office. Early mornings are not a problem as I am an early bird. I ride about 8-10 horses per day and the day ends between 19.00 and 20.00. 

How often do you polish your boots?

Usually twice a week. The training boots get a quick polish before I take them off for the day and the competition boots are mostly polished with baby wipes.

What is your best training advice for a young horse?

A lot of varied training and focus on them being safe in many different environments.

How do you train on your own without a horse to become a better rider?

I exercise a lot by myself to get stronger in the saddle, usually it's running. But I also train by watching a lot of horse riding.

What's your best advice for young riders?

Try to ride as many different horses as possible!

Do you have any role models that inspire you?

There are many talented riders and I get a little inspiration here and there. I often pick up small details that I like in others.

What qualities do you look for in a horse?

It must like to work, have three good gaits and be the right age depending on what type of horse I am looking for.

What's the most important thing you think about when you warm up before a competition?

Having a clear plan to be able to arrive well prepared for the competition. It can be helpful to have someone helping from the ground.

How do you recharge mentally before a competition?

It is important to feel that I have control over the situation at home. I want to be able to leave the stable in order and have a good plan for the competition weekend the week before.

How do you prepare for competition season?

The horse must be in good condition to be able to attend the meeting and be well prepared for the technical parts. It is also important to ensure that the horse has good shoes and veterinary care to be ready for a new season

Do you have any goals for the future?

My goals are to ride in the major championships as a senior. Good thing I have many years ahead! ;)