Equestrian jumps closer to Olympics Equestrian jumps closer to Olympics (October 08, 2003)

By John Flood
Special to the Almanac

Local equestrian Guy Thomas and his horse NZ Madison, are one step closer to competing in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. The pair was awarded the prestigious Certificate of Capability at equestrian jumping trials in Aachen, Germany, June 15.

Thomas, 26, who manages and trains at the Portola Valley Training Center in Portola Valley, is delighted with his award.

"I have an 80 percent confidence that I'll be on the Olympic team," he said. "I'll know for sure in early 2004 when the New Zealand Equestrian Federation makes its final decision."

Some 36,000 people attended the Aachen event that featured 38 jumping riders from 12 countries on seven teams competing for the chance to go to Athens. Only five individual riders on three teams could qualify. The winners included New Zealand, Japan and Korea, said Ms. Katherine Fortel, assistant trainer at the Portola Valley Training Center.

Born at Stanford University Hospital, the Redwood City resident has dual citizenship with the United States and New Zealand. He started riding horses at age 2 and he began jumping when he was 5.

Thomas credits his parents, Graeme and Lu Thomas, previously of Woodside, for being the foundation of his success.

"Without them, none of this would be possible," he said. "They are my heroes. They were finalists at the World Cup, an indoor event just as important as the outdoor Olympic equestrian event."

His horse, a 9-year-old female thoroughbred Clydesdale cross, was bred in New Zealand.

"Most people are surprised with NZ Madison," said Thomas. "She has the size and frame of a Clydesdale with the muscle and finesse of a thoroughbred."

Thomas attributes his equestrian achievements to his parents, his competitive drive, and his friends with whom he competes.

"I'm always striving to get better and I compete against friends who are excellent riders and they help me improve my technique," he explained.

Between now and the Olympic games next year, Thomas intends to continue his 12-hour daily routine of riding and showing. "I plan to be on the Olympic team next year and I'm going to be as competitive as I can be until then."