Meet Sirelle Magne
Sirelle Magne, 19, has lived her passion for horse riding by practicing equestrian sports since she was very young, and through her studies. She is currently studying for a professional degree in tourism and equestrian business management in Saumur. She came to discover the Jumping International de Bordeaux in 2022 as a spectator, and this year marks her second time volunteering with the team.
Why did you decide to become a volunteer at Jumping International de Bordeaux?
Being a volunteer is a great opportunity for me, because working in the events industry, and more specifically in the organization of international competitions, are my professional goals.
This year I'll be taking part in the event for the second time, and it's a pleasure for me to relive the experience. The atmosphere and the tasks on offer are extraordinary. Jumping International de Bordeaux is a very open team. As a volunteer, we tend to think that we're not much of a part of a sporting event, but the whole team is behind us to make us understand that we're important to the smooth running of the event.
What are your responsibilities at Jumping International de Bordeaux?
Last year, I was placed in the stables. My main tasks were to label the stalls, prepare them with the right bedding in each one, place the right horses in the right stalls and answer riders' questions. I loved working in the stables and that's why this year I'm returning to the stables.
What's your best memory?
I don't think there are any stronger memories of the experience I had last year. Every moment was beautiful, full of solidarity and mutual aid. I've been lucky enough to volunteer at other events, but no experience elsewhere was as powerful as the one I had in Bordeaux. Honestly, if you have the chance to take part in this event, do it, because it really is the experience of a lifetime.
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Meet Valentine Barbe
A student in graphic design and foreign languages, Valentine Barbe, 24, is taking advantage of a break in her studies to take part in Jumping International de Bordeaux as a volunteer for the second time.
Why did you decide to become a volunteer at Jumping International de Bordeaux?
Unlike most volunteers, I ride horses from time to time as a hobby. I discovered Jumping International de Bordeaux last year as a volunteer. I'd never been before. It was my first encounter with the professional world of horse riding and high-level competition, and I loved every minute of it. I'm very shy, so this experience taught me a lot about a lot of things. So I looked forward to repeating the experience last year, and I can't wait to be part of it again this year.
What are your responsibilities at Jumping International de Bordeaux?
I'm part of the accreditation team. I make sure they're complete, with the right access for the bearer, before handing them over to the recipient. I deal with officials, owners and riders' families. I also welcome riders and their teams and guide them to the riders' office. This is especially important in the early days of the event, when everyone arrives.
What Jumping International de Bordeaux memory would you like to share?
There are so many incredible memories of my experience at Jumping International de Bordeaux... If I had to choose just one, I think it would be the evening of the Indoor Derby 2023, with Punch's victory in his very last competition. I wouldn't have missed it for the world, and it was absolutely magnificent!
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Meet Emma Deltenre
Emma Deltenre is in her second year of a Bachelor's degree at ESG Sport (a business school specializing in sports), and has been riding since the age of 7.
Why did you decide to become a volunteer at Jumping International de Bordeaux?
I'm passionate about events, and enjoy taking part in events that combine sport and organization. My first experience at Jumping International de Bordeaux was in February 2018, and since then I've returned every year without hesitation. What motivates me to return is the love of the sport and the unique atmosphere that reigns at this event.
What are your duties at Jumping International de Bordeaux?
Last year, as this year, I had the pleasure of volunteering at the secretariat of the Baloubet ring and attending the prize-giving ceremony. My role involves ensuring that the events run smoothly and taking an active part in the ceremonies.
What's your best memory?
Among my most vivid memories are the intense moments of the prize-giving ceremonies. These moments are all the more precious because they enabled me to forge friendships with some of the participants, with whom I'm still in touch today.