JOAO TORRAO: the "gentle" rider of Portuguese dressage, a magical interpreter of the Modern Lusitano 2

Second part of interview by Giulia Iannone Read the second part of this magical interview. Joao talks to us about his plans for this year, his coaches, his dressage philosophy, his secret dream, and the thrill of riding the modern Lusitano in high-level international competitions.

5.⁠ ⁠This year’s World Championships in Aachen. Will you be there with Lirio? What are your plans for the season? "Aachen is always a dream for any dressage rider, and I hope to be there with Lirio if everything goes according to plan. The goal is to prepare him carefully, step by step, focusing on his confidence, balance, and consistency.This season, my main focus is on building strong partnerships with my horses, improving the quality of our work, and taking each competition as a learning experience. I want to continue developing Lirio’s potential while maintaining his joy and willingness to perform. Ultimately, the aim is to arrive at the World Championships feeling ready, confident, and connected with my horse."

6.⁠ ⁠We saw you at the clinic with Monica Theodorescu, working with national coach Kyra Kyrklund, and your longtime coach Coralie Baldry. In depth, can you tell me what you've learned from each of them and assimilated into your dressage philosophy? "I began my journey in dressage with my day-to-day coach, Coralie Baldrey, and I can honestly say that the rider I am today is largely thanks to her. Coralie knows me and my horses very well, and I share the same training philosophy as her. With her, so much is about feel and understanding, and sometimes we don’t even need to speak—she knows exactly how to guide both me and the horses. I’ve also been very fortunate to spend long periods training in England with Carl Hester, who is a great example for me both as a rider and as a horseman. From him, I learned how to get the best out of any horse, always respecting their nature, and never forgetting that they are horses, not machines. I really connect with his approach, where subtle communication, harmony, and patience are everything. Kyra Kyrklund, who has been team trainer in most of the major competitions I’ve competed in, is the most technical of all my coaches. From her, I learned how to structure the work carefully, respect each horse’s pace, and develop them step by step, building strength, confidence, and consistency. I also attended a clinic with Monica Theodorescu, a trainer I deeply respect, where I worked with a young horse. With her, we focused a lot on frame and balance, and I learned how important it is for a horse to move with lightness and freedom. I really enjoyed her tips! All of these experiences together shaped the way I ride today.Every horse is unique, and my goal is always to understand them and create a partnership that is natural, respectful, and enjoyable for both of us."

7.⁠ ⁠By the way, what is your dressage philosophy? "My dressage philosophy is really about partnership, respect, and understanding. Every horse is unique, so I try to ride each one according to its personality and needs, creating a bond based on trust and communication. I believe dressage should combine technical precision with harmony and joy, so the horse enjoys moving and feels confident. For me, it’s not just about performance—it’s about creating a partnership that is natural, elegant, and sustainable for both horse and rider."

8.⁠ ⁠What’s your secret equestrian dream? "My dream is to continue competing at the highest level, to keep developing young horses up to Grand Prix, and ultimately to reach the top with a horse I have bred and trained myself."

9.⁠ ⁠You’re very young, but also very well-prepared, and it’s clear you’re eager to improve. Is there a coach you’d like to work with to learn even more and why? "I’m always eager to learn and improve, and I admire coaches who combine technical skill with a deep understanding of the horse. Learning from someone like that would help me refine my riding and continue developing both myself and my horses. At the same time, I’m very happy and grateful for my current coaches, who have guided me and helped me reach this level."

10.⁠ ⁠Riding the Lusitano in international competitions across so many countries: what does it mean to you, and what does this horse bring to competitive dressage, a horse born for other disciplines? "Riding a Lusitano internationally is a huge honor. These horses are very intelligent and always eager to please their rider. They bring elegance, expression, and a unique presence to the arena, showing that a Lusitano can succeed at the highest level of dressage. Competing with them allows me to showcase their qualities and prove that with the right training, they can excel anywhere in the world."