FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final - An interview with U.S. Dressage rider Anna Buffini

We caught up with U.S. Dressage rider Anna Buffini to talk about qualifying for the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final, what she's looking forward to most about competing in Omaha, and her amazing partner FRH Davinia La Douce.

Photo - Anna Buffini and FRH Davinia La Douce. (Leslie Potter/US Equestrian)

What did it feel like to secure your qualifying spot for the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final?

It felt surreal. We started our World Cup qualifying season back in November, and it was so close until the very last second. All the way until March we had to stay focused and fight for it. I’m so grateful to get this opportunity again, and I'm hoping to improve on our performance in last year's World Cup. I don’t think the reality of qualifying really sunk in until the next couple days after the last competition. As grateful as I am to make it, there’s so much work to be done.

What are you looking forward to most about competing in Omaha?

Competing in an international championship in your own country is what you dream about, especially since America has so many fewer opportunities to host big shows like that. It makes it so much more special! There’s an extra level of comfort being home and familiar with your surroundings, the people, and how everything works. More than anything, I hope to lay down a solid performance for the U.S. crowd, and I can’t wait to perform our "Top Gun Maverick" freestyle that was designed specifically in the hope of competing it in Omaha.

What did you think FRH Davinia La Douce's biggest strength was when you first tried her and what do you think it is now?

I think our highlight is our harmony, and her correct, classical way of going. Her biggest strength has always been her passage. She loves performing it, I love riding it, and, especially in our last centerline, she absolutely lights up for it.

What is your favorite part of your freestyle test and why?

The whole freestyle tells the story of the movie "Top Gun," and I really think it draws people in. My favorite part has to be the last part where the "Top Gun Anthem" comes in. It’s pretty emotional and powerful, and we both love it.

Do you have any good luck charms or superstitions?

I don’t have any superstitions, but I am very closed off more than ever during shows in order to focus. I’m either with my horse or in my hotel room. I don’t like talking to people or doing too much. I just try to focus and make it seem like a normal show at home.

If you could ride any previous FEI World Cup™ Finals winner who would it be and why?

Totilas and Valegro. They both changed the sport of Dressage forever. To feel greatness like that must be absolutely incredible.