The Beauty of the Bond: Jessica von Bredow-Werndl on the Magic of Horses and Lasting Success
Must Love Horses interviews Jessica von Bredow-Wernd
For Olympic dressage champion Jessica von Bredow-Werndl, horses have always been more than just partners in sport—they’re mirrors to the soul. From her very first encounter with them, Jessica was hooked, drawn in by their honesty, sensitivity, and the unique way they reflect who we are.
While she’s achieved incredible success at the highest levels of dressage, Jessica says her most fulfilling moments come when she and her horse become one—when trust and communication align so perfectly it feels like effortless harmony.
Her advice for those starting out? Focus on the process, not just the result. Winning is fleeting, but the friendships, trust, and love you build along the way—that’s what truly lasts.
Curious what keeps her inspired after all these years? Read on.
"Horses are like mirrors; they reflect us in the purest way."
1. What about horses captured your heart and made you fall in love with them?
From the moment I first encountered with horses, I was completely captivated and it was as if I had been infected by a persistent and wonderful virus. I simply love being around horses. They have such a special aura, and what makes them truly remarkable is their honesty. Horses are like mirrors; they reflect us in the purest way. There is no pretense with them. They respond to us with sincerity, and that deep connection is what makes them so fascinating to me.
2. In your experience, what’s the most fulfilling moment or accomplishment you’ve had while working with horses?
There have been so many incredible moments that it’s hard to pick just one. What I love the most is when I feel that the horse truly understands me and wants it just as much as I do. When we become one, moving in perfect harmony, it feels like a symbiosis, an unspoken connection built on trust and mutual respect. Those moments of pure understanding and effortless communication are the most fulfilling experiences for me.
3. For someone just starting their journey with horses, what’s the first piece of advice you would give them to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience?
Above all, it’s always about love and friendship with the horses. Of course, having big goals is great, but what truly matters is how we achieve them. The process is far more important than the outcome. Success is fleeting just a moment in time but what stays with you forever is the journey itself. The relationships you build with the horses and the people around you, the connection, the trust, and the love you cultivate along the way that’s what truly lasts.
For Jessica, riding has never been just about winning—it’s about connection. Whether you’re starting out with horses or chasing big dreams, her message is the same: build trust, lead with love, and enjoy the ride.
Thank you, Jessica!
Welcome back to Must Love Horses. Here’s to learning about each other's love for horses. I hope you join the blog's journey ahead. Check out more interviews: