Mette Klose Nielsen is an IGA Rep and a super experienced Para-dressage groom.

She will very soon be heading to the amazing venue at Versailles as groom to Aladdin and Jens Lass Dokkan for Norway.

This will be Mette's fifth Paralympics, and Aladdin's second. As well as her groom duties, Mette also trains Aladdin, and is pictured above riding in the arena at Tokyo.

Tell us a little about your Paralympic journey...

I did my first Paralympics with the Norwegian team 20 years ago in Athens 2004 - feeling a bit old right now!

The next one was Beijing (Hong Kong) in 2008. Sadly I didn’t go to London in 2012, because my rider at that time didn’t have a horse ready for the Paralympics. 

But we got back strong in Rio 2016, where she won an individual gold and silver in the freestyle. 

Next up was Tokyo 2020(1) where I went with the rider and the horse that I’m also going to Paris with. 

Do you feel the Paralympics are different to other Championships?

The Paralympics is always something really special. I think it’s because there is so much hard work leading up to this, with the difficulty of being among those lucky teams that qualify.

How does it feel to be heading to Paris?

I feel really lucky to be able to go to my 5th Paralympics! Last year my rider (who is now doing his 8th Paralympics by the way!!! ) actually decided to retire from international competition. 

But then on New Year’s Eve he told me that he wanted to try and go for Paris.

I can’t really describe my feelings at that point, but words like blessed, privileged and humble comes to mind.

If you had to give just one tip for a groom heading to their first major Championship what would it be?

Remember to enjoy every minute! Grooming is hard work but also a lot of great experiences.

If you don’t enjoy it - don’t do it!

I always try to remember, that the work I do is the same as when I’m at a “normal”competition.

And of course, know that there are always people ready to help you if you need it.