I had the opportunity to learn a little more about Paris Sellon, who has been competing on the international show circuit for 11 years. She spends much of her "home" time in Switzerland training her stellar group of horses. Being born and raised in LA she has become an international riding superstar!!
Q. How long have you been riding on the international show circuit in both Europe and the US?
I’ve been riding on the international show circuit since I was about 17 years old. I have been privileged to have the horses and training to get me to the high level of competition at an early age.
Q. What initially started your love for horses?
My love for horses began when my mom would take me to the stable when I was really small.
She used to barrel race when she was a teenager, and she eventually found herself doing hunters and jumpers after I was born. She found a stable in Los Angeles and continued her love for riding. From then on I would always go with her to the stable, while she would ride and I would watch. She was training with Dick and Francie Carvin, as well as Susie Schroer who would eventually be my trainers throughout my pony and junior career. I learned so much from them, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the knowledge and support they gave me throughout my junior years.
Q. What has been your favorite show to date? From a win or experience.
I would say my favourite show to date would have been the Longines Masters of Paris in December 2019. My horses jumped great in every class, and the atmosphere was incredible. It was also one of the more difficult Grand Prix’s I have done, and it challenged me in a way that my riding ability could be tested, but I could also enjoy the moment and stay fully present throughout my round. I have struggled with nerves in the past, so it was a very rewarding feeling to truly enjoy what I was doing. That is what the sport is about for me.
Q. What is the most profound lesson you have learned from riding that has applied to your personal life?
A profound lesson(s) I have learned from riding are both presence and patience. I believe they
are both equally important to do what we do with horses. We cannot control every circumstance and it is important to accept this frustrating truth. Horses and sport are unpredictable and that’s the reality of it. I believe this also applies to life. We should be accepting of change and unpredictability, and do the best we can with the present moment.
Q. Do you have a favorite breed of show jumping horses?
I don’t know if I have a favorite breed of show jumping horse, but I seem to be drawn to grey horses…especially if they are mares! I love mares and I connect with them easily.
Q. What is your favorite workout routine outside of the barn?
I like to go for walks, and sometimes I will go for a run. I have to take care of my back, so I only do high-impact workouts every so often. It is important for me to stretch and keep my core strong as well. I also enjoy pilates and low-intensity/high repetition strength training.
Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now? Have you ever thought about becoming a trainer and working with students?
Five years from now I would like to see myself doing some more dealing and selling of show jumping horses. I like to watch videos and find horses that I think could be special for someone, whether that be a low level or high level client. Depending on the horses I have, I’d like to be jumping at the top of the sport, but as we know so many things can change in five years. For now, I see myself working with horses and I know this will always be something I enjoy doing.
Follow Paris Sellon as she shows throughout Europe this summer