Van Grunsven's journey in dressage started early, influenced by her father. She trains eight horses daily at her facility, Anky Van Grunsven Dressage Horses, located in Erp, Netherlands. Her dedication to the sport is evident in her rigorous training regime.

Achievements and Awards

Van Grunsven has an impressive list of accolades. She was the first rider to win individual gold at three consecutive Olympic Games (2000, 2004, 2008). She achieved this with two different horses, Bonfire and Salinero. In 2012, she received the Fanny Blankers-Koen Award for lifetime achievement.

Her other honours include being named Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau and Knight in the Order of the Netherlands Lion. She was also named the Royal Dutch Equestrian Federation Rider of the Century in 2001 and has won the Rider of the Year Award eight times.

Personal Life

Van Grunsven resides in Erp with her husband Sjef Janssen and their children, Yannick and Ava Eden. Both children have followed in their mother's footsteps, competing in pony jumping at various levels. Sjef Janssen has also had a notable career as a coach for both Dutch and Belgian dressage teams.

Injuries and Challenges

Throughout her career, Van Grunsven has faced several injuries. In June 2020, she broke her clavicle. Earlier injuries include a bruised toe in 2018, a back injury in 2008, a broken shoulder in 1997, and a fractured leg in 2003. Despite these setbacks, she has shown remarkable resilience.

Philosophy and Beliefs

Van Grunsven's sporting philosophy is rooted in hard work and perseverance. She believes that trying is essential to success and is never afraid to fail. Her rituals include putting on her left boot first and wearing a special belt, bracelet, and watch.

Other Ventures

In addition to dressage, Van Grunsven has competed in reining at an international level. She won a bronze medal in the team event at the 2015 European Championships in Aachen. Her interest in reining began after her success at the 2008 Olympics.

She also established the Anky Education Center in 2009, where she coaches dressage riders. In 2016, she became chairwoman of the Indoor Brabant concours and an ambassador for the Royal Dutch Equestrian Sports Federation's Talent Plan in 2019.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Van Grunsven aims to continue her involvement in equestrian sports through coaching and mentoring young talent. Her commitment to developing future champions remains strong as she balances her roles as a business owner, coach, and horse trainer.

Anky van Grunsven's legacy in dressage is well-established. Her achievements serve as an inspiration to many aspiring riders worldwide.