Maddy Vallender’s story is notable for her decision to leave a successful and comfortable riding career in Australia to train in Germany, focusing on foundational skills and long-term development rather than immediate competition success. Inspired by her connection with Ronan, a Grand Prix horse, she shifted her passion toward dressage, seeking deeper communication and precision in the sport. The purchase of her new horse, Ivy, motivated her to pursue training in Europe, where the dressage culture, expertise, and competitive environment offer unparalleled learning opportunities.

Her time in Germany allowed Maddy to immerse herself in a rich dressage tradition, pushing beyond her comfort zone to absorb knowledge from top trainers and experience a higher level of training and competition atmosphere. This strategic move reflects her commitment to building strong fundamentals and a promising future in dressage, emphasizing growth and mastery over immediate accolades.