Ulrike Nivelle does not come from a family with equestrian traditions. Neither her father, her mother nor her brother had any proximity to the horse world. And yet… It all happened during a holiday in Italy when Ulrike was only 4 years old… At 9, Ulrike started riding ‘seriously’ in Düsseldorf and at 12, Schlingel, her first horse, arrived.
Ulrike Nivelle studied medicine and trained as a medical-technical assistant. Despite her professional commitment, however, her heart has always beaten for horses, equestrian sport and a passion for becoming a judge.
Where do you live?
«I met horses when I was very small. I was with my parents in Holliday and I told them, that I like to ride a Pony….. so, the horsevirus started…».
How and when did you meet horses? And where and why dressage?
«It is a long way in Germany to become the GP level. You have to start with low levels in Dressage and Jumping. I think it is nearly 25 Years ago».
What does dressage mean to you?
«Dressage means for me “harmony between horse and rider”. Light-footed, elegant and well gymnastized».
How did you career develop?
«My career was very fast. The German Federation send me quick after my GP exam to a FEI seminar to Italy. After two years my second exam as a 4*judge. In Belgium. After some experience years the appointment from the FEI to a 5*judge. That was fantastic…».
Do you have any worries when you are going to start judging a class?
«I have no worries when I have to judge, but maybe a bist nervous before a big show. I will always do my very best».
Your hobbies?
«My hobbies are my dog. In wintertime I love to sew some nice things…pillows, bags and everything is possible».
Any suggestions to FEI regarding judges?
«No suggestions for the FEI».
