INTERVIEWING LEOPOLDO PETRINI

His sport path

Author

Giulio Peluffo

Hello Vittoria friends, in this article you will read an interview with Leopoldo Petrini, a student in our high school who is in the fourth year. Leopoldo is an ordinary 17-year-old boy, very likeable and with a passion for soccer: however, he hides a great talent for horseback riding, which led him to obtain the title of vice-champion of the European Championships, a formidable achievement for our country.

European Championship Award Ceremony

Why did you begin your journey with horseback riding?
It all started when my mother decided to let me try horseback riding to get me over my fear of animals, which I had since I was a child

What was your age?
When I went horseback riding for the first time, I was only 5 years old-I immediately fell in love with the sport.

What riding school did you join? Do you still train there?
My first riding school was Quadrifoglio. Later I moved to "La Verbia" with my current instructor.

When did you decide to turn professional? And why?
I made this big decision at age 13, when after a season of excellent results I won the coveted Italian Championship

How do you balance school and sports?
I must say that it is not easy at all, however, I always make an effort to study once the training session is over. Plus, I get help from a group of people who help me catch up with other students.

What were the competitions in which you achieved the most significant results for you?
The Italian championships for sure, because I always got the medal. However, the competition that was most satisfying for me was held this year: in fact, I got second place at the European Championships

Do you feel a lot of pressure? Are there people who support you?
Fortunately, pressure is not one of my problems: before a race I am a bit tense, however, I can focus on the course and not think about it. My family plays a key role for me, and I thank them for their support.

What are your plans for the future?
My current goal is to constantly improve myself and be better and better performers in order to one day become a real professional rider and win gold at the Olympics.

Thanks for reading, see you at school!