5 minutes with Christoffer Roepstorff, PhD, Biomechanical Researcher
We’re a team of passionate horse enthusiasts and tech innovators, and we’d love to introduce you to some of the brilliant minds behind our work.
In the heart of Belgium, amidst the hustle and bustle of the equestrian world, we had the pleasure of talking with Thibault Philippaerts, a name synonymous with dedication, passion, and a deep-rooted love for horses. With four brothers and a father who is a superstar rider, Thibault was born into a world where riding and horsemanship are a way of life.
From growth to greatness
Thibault is deeply involved in the family business, which has seen significant growth over the past year. “For the future, we want to ensure we have enough space for everyone, especially when we bring in new horses. Sometimes the stables are full, and it gets a bit hectic.”
This expansion has led to the construction of a new stable, which will house an additional 48 boxes, bringing their total to nearly 100. Delays due to inclement weather have pushed back the completion date, but Thibault remains optimistic. “The indoors are nearly ready and soon we should be moving horses in. It’s an exciting time for us,” he shares, reflecting on the positive developments.
The Philippaerts family is not just about expansion; they also have their eyes set on enhancing their breeding program. “We do have a breeding program, but it’s not our main focus,” Thibault notes. “This year we had about 14 or 15 foals, which is a lot. Our primary goal is to buy horses when they are around six or seven years old, produce them to the highest level, and then sell them when they are nine or ten.”
“We are fortunate to do what we love. It’s not just about riding; it’s about the bond we share with our horses and the joy they bring us every day.”
Training, competition, brotherhood, and a passion for teaching
When it comes to training and competition, Thibault emphasizes the importance of teamwork among his brothers. “We all help each other out, whether it’s warming up or walking the course,” he says. “At the end of the day, it’s one big team, but when we step into the ring, it’s every man for himself.” This camaraderie is essential as they strive to outdo each other while still supporting one another.
Thibault's role doesn’t end at riding; he also enjoys teaching. “I wouldn’t call myself a trainer, but I help out when I can,” he says. “It’s rewarding to see young riders eager to learn, just as I did when I was their age.” His training philosophy emphasizes a calm and stylish approach, focusing on harmony between horse and rider.
Lessons in resilience
Reflecting on his journey, Thibault shares a story of resilience. “Once, I had a very good horse, and I was preparing for the European Championships for young riders. Everything was going well until, on the first day of the event, he got sick. It was devastating after all the preparation and sacrifice. I was at my lowest point, but the following year, I had a different horse and went back to the same championship. This time, I won gold with the team and silver individually. It was a complete turnaround, and it made me appreciate the highs even more after experiencing those lows.”
The experience taught Thibault the importance of perseverance. “I’m not much of a talker, but I learned to keep pushing forward. After a setback, there’s always a new opportunity on the horizon” he reflects. “You have to learn from it and keep going.”
Daily routines for peak performance, prioritising equine welfare
As we talk about his daily routine, Thibault paints a vivid picture of life at the stables. “I usually start my day around 7:30 AM, greeting the team and checking on the horses. I ride about eight horses a day, and every day is different,” he explains. His dedication to his horses is evident, and he "Sleips" them regularly to really understand their movement pattern and be able to detect any changes. “It’s fascinating to be able to track their patterns over time,” he says.
Thibault also talks about the significance of equine welfare, asserting, “Happy horses perform better.” The Philippaerts family truly live horses and prioritise their well-being above all. They make sure their horses spend plenty of time outdoors and have access to natural therapies, balancing training and competition with rest. “We always try to keep a healthy mindset and focus on prevention,” he says. “If something comes up, we work closely with our vet to address it and create a plan to keep our horses in top shape.”
Building a legacy for the future whilst enjoying the ride
When asked about the future, Thibault expresses a hopeful vision for the family business. “Our goal is to be one of the biggest stables in Europe, known for our commitment to horse welfare and excellence in the sport,” he says. “We want to leave a legacy that not only honours our family’s tradition but also prioritises the happiness of our horses.”
In a sport where competition can be fierce, Thibault emphasises the importance of enjoying the journey. “Sometimes it’s easy to forget about the fun when you’re focused on winning,” he reflects. “But it’s crucial to savour the good moments, as they don’t last forever.”
About the Philippaerts family
The Philippaerts family is a prominent name in the equestrian industry, based in Belgium, where they run a highly regarded stable specializing in horse breeding, training, and sales of showjumping horses. With a legacy rooted in competitive showjumping, the family is led by a renowned father and supported by his four sons, all of whom are actively involved in the family business.
Focused on producing top-quality horses for various disciplines, the Philippaerts stable boasts advanced facilities that are continuously expanding to meet growing client demands. Their approach combines traditional horsemanship with modern techniques, including innovative training methods and a strong emphasis on horse welfare.
