STEPHAN BARCHA & PRIMAVERA - A MATCH MADE IN NIRVANA
(No part of this article may be copied or reproduced in any form without the permission of HT)
Brazilian showjumping rider Stephan de Freitas Barcha’s grounded demeanour and exceptional talent have endeared him to equestrian fans worldwide. He represented Brazil at both the Rio 2016 and Paris 2024 Olympics, and in 2023, he achieved a historic milestone by winning gold at the Pan American Games on his very popular mare, Chevaux Primavera Império Egípcio, cementing his status as a leading athlete in the sport.
His flamboyance and versatility were on full display at CHIO Aachen this year; he won the STAWAG Opening Jumping Competition with his gelding, Chevaux Hex Lup Imperio Egipcio, on day 1. And despite suffering a serious fall during the Mercedes-Benz Nations Cup on day 3, he got up, picked up, and regrouped with Chevaux Hex Lup Imperio Egipcio - to win the Feinkost Käfer-Prize on day 4.
And to top it all off, he calmly and confidently, cleared 3 rounds in the Rolex Grand Prix on day 5, also with Primavera, to finish in an impressive fourth place.
In this interview with Barcha, husband of Roberta Alfinito and father of Eduardo, Maria Clara, and Maria Júlia Alfinito, we go beyond the typical questions to explore his personal methods and the qualities that define him.
Why horses, why not football or tennis?
It’s simple really. As a professional rider, I need to take care of my body and avoid injuries. I follow specific training techniques to stay fit, but overall, I’m a fan of good sports—whether equestrian or otherwise.
How did you come back to win a class at CHIO Aachen following your serious fall?
My knee and back hurt terribly that night, but I had to get up and carry on. It wasn’t an ordinary week, being in Aachen is important for us riders. And even though I was aching, I told myself to keep going. Walking was painful, but riding felt easier because I was doing what I love.
How do you choose a horse and how did you choose Primavera?
Funnily enough, she chose me. Perhaps this is a bit superstitious, but that’s how I feel. She came to me while I was training a client’s son. She’s strong, has scope and a lot of character. She was difficult to ride at first, but she knows how to jump perfectly. She knows the job. I got her when she was 6 and she’s been with me for 8 years now.
Which methods do you use to build a bond with a horse?
With Primavera for example, she’s a blood horse and so paying attention to her details really works for us. I take great care of her. I really do. I mean, she’s provided with better facilities than myself!
Basically, I had to adapt myself to meet her needs. I believe any rider needs to adapt to and respect the horse’s way—that’s how I get the best out of her.
What is your pre-show routine?
I’m generally a calm person and I approach big shows as if I’m going for a walk. I try to enjoy the moment and stay relaxed.
What are your thoughts on the Longines League of Nations?
The competition format is fine, but the venues are questionable. Starting in Abu Dhabi, then going all the way to the USA, then back to Europe. It’s a bit of a criss-cross. Personally, I do not think it is a winning and lasting formula.
Which horse would you really love to have?
Generally I like to ride brave, fast, and careful horses. But specifically, I would love to own Caracole de la Roque. She’s not for sale, but if I could choose, she’d be the one. HT
Barcha was born on 27th of October in 1989 and operates Chevaux Team, a team based in Brasilia and Sao Paulo, and specialises in coaching and horse development.
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Photos by Rodrigo Torrezan and Luís Carlos courtesy of Stephan Barcha
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