I designed the Tokyo Olympics horse show jumping course. I never know if I've made a mistake until the first rider competes.

I started show jumping at a very young age. Once, when I was competing in the children's category at the Spanish Championships, I approached the course designer and asked if I could be in the arena to help him set up the fences. That's when my career as a course designer began.

I began designing at the Madrid Horse Show from 1984 until 1998. I then worked my way up through Fédération Equestre Internationale – the international equestrian governing body. I designed various Grand Prix, World Cups, and regional championships.

Climbing the ranks in the FEI is very structured. I am Level 4 – the highest.

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Article written by: Clara Murray