Lisa Nooren Garofalo: Building Her Own Path in International Show Jumping
Dutch show jumper Lisa Nooren Garofalo is shaping her career with a clear mindset and steady approach. Based at Scuderia Borgo La Caccia, her focus is on developing horses, staying consistent, and building something long-term, both in sport and in business.
A Week of Preparation and Focus
The outdoor season is approaching, and this period is key. It is where the foundation is set.
“We absolutely love coming here. I’ve had a lovely week so far, and we’re just getting all the horses ready for the outdoor season. It’s a beautiful way to do it.”
Her focus is not only on immediate results. Alongside her Grand Prix horse, she is working with a group of younger horses that need time and structure.
“I hope this summer to have a bit of fun with my Grand Prix horse and build up the younger ones in the group.”
It reflects a clear approach. Build step by step, without rushing.
Life Beyond the Saddle
Even outside the arena, her routine stays active.
“That doesn’t happen often. I’m not the kind of person who is very good at sitting still.”
Time off still includes movement. Training, long walks, and cooking are part of her daily life.
“Cooking brings me a lot of quietness and peace.”
Simple habits, but important ones. They help her reset and stay mentally balanced during busy competition weeks.
Creating Her Own Identity
Her last name is well known in the sport, but Lisa has made a conscious decision to build something independently.
“I’ve been incredibly lucky growing up, but four years ago my husband and I started our own business. We started from zero.”
It is a process that takes time and consistency.
“We’re still building it slowly, and it’s something we really enjoy.”
Behind the scenes, the work is constant. Managing horses, making business decisions, and building a stable operation from the ground up.
The Horses That Shape a Career
In show jumping, certain horses leave a lasting impact. For Lisa, one stands out.
“VDL Groep Sabech d’Ha. He didn’t have all the talent, but he was a fighter.”
That partnership was built on trust and effort.
“He would have gone through fire for me. He didn’t do it because he could, but because he wanted to.”
It is that mindset that often defines success at the highest level.
Dealing with Pressure and Setbacks
Like any rider, she has faced difficult periods. Horses need time, results fluctuate, and expectations can shift quickly.
“You have to stay calm and believe in your system.”
Her approach is clear. Avoid overreacting.
“They’re not machines, they’re animals. Some days are good, some are not.”
Consistency matters more than quick fixes.
“Don’t change everything randomly. Just carry on.”
Recently, the results have started to come back, bringing confidence and motivation again.
A Moment That Still Stands Out
One result remains a defining memory. Winning the five-star Grand Prix in La Coruña.
“We had zero expectations. I remember walking the course and thinking this is big.”
It became one of those rare rounds where everything comes together.
“My horse just fought. That day was insane.”
A reminder of what is possible when preparation meets the right moment.
Balancing Sport and Business
Today, her career includes more than competition. Buying, producing, and selling horses is part of the structure.
“It’s hard sometimes. You want to keep the good ones, but at some point you also have to sell them.”
It is a balance many riders know well.
At the same time, developing young horses brings its own satisfaction.
“Taking them to a higher level and then selling them is very rewarding.”
Both sides are essential to keep the system working.
Staying Grounded
In a demanding environment, her mindset remains simple.
“I try to remind myself to be grateful. We’re here, the sun is shining, and we get to do what we love.”
It is a way to stay focused without losing perspective.
Looking Ahead
If there is one lesson that defines her journey, it is patience.
“Be patient. When things go well, you think it will always be like that. Then you have to start again.”
Progress in this sport takes time.
“You just have to believe in yourself, and it will come.”
It is a steady path forward, built on work, trust, and long-term vision.
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