Triin is completing her professional internship in Belgium as an Erasmus+ pro mobility.

Journey into the Unknown: Stepping into a New Chapter

My adventure began the moment the plane’s wheels touched down on the asphalt in Brussels. That moment was filled with conflicting emotions—on one hand, great excitement, and on the other, a certain uncertainty about the unknown. The two and a half hours spent in the air turned out to be unexpectedly exhausting, giving me far too much time to think. Most nerve-wracking of all was worrying about my luggage, as personal equipment is indispensable for a horse caretaker in an unfamiliar environment.

However, amidst the bustling activity of Brussels Airport, my supervisor, Victor Kumps, was waiting for me. His warm welcome and calm demeanor immediately dispelled any lingering worries. The drive from the airport to my new residence offered my first glimpse of Belgium’s green landscapes and signaled that I had arrived in a place where equestrian management is taken seriously. For me, this initial journey officially marked the beginning of a new and exciting phase of life.

First Encounter with Excellence: Order and Atmosphere

My first workday with Victor Kumps was an eye-opening experience that shattered several preconceptions. I had prepared myself for a stressful start, yet I found myself in an extremely systematic and calm environment. The first thing that impressed me upon entering the stable was the incredible cleanliness and overall organization—every detail had a clear purpose.

Special attention must be given to the stable’s internal atmosphere. The building is spacious and full of air, yet unexpectedly cool. However, this is not an uncomfortable chill but a deliberately created environment that supports the horses’ health and ensures they always have fresh air. This high-level attention to detail immediately instilled trust in me—nothing here is done haphazardly.

A Small Team and a Supportive Atmosphere

Integrating into this professional setup was easy, thanks to the wonderful team. Our team is rather small and tight-knit: Victor Kumps, his wife Caitlin Whittaker, and Victor’s student Ella. Ella’s role in helping me settle in has been invaluable—we quickly became good friends, sharing both the joys of work and everyday discoveries. It is a great privilege to work with people who are at the top of their field yet remain approachable and supportive. This warmth within the team is what makes even the most serious workdays enjoyable.

Precision in Every Movement

My daily work is varied and requires great dedication. The main focus is supporting Victor’s training process: preparing horses for training and providing thorough care both before and after work. My duties also include general stable maintenance and adding bedding. I only handle stall preparation when the full-time stable staff are not available, allowing me to focus more on the horses’ individual care.

In Belgium, a sport horse is a valuable top athlete, and their safety is the number one priority. One of the biggest differences compared to Estonia is how precisely the horses’ movements are scheduled. Horses go to paddocks and the carousel according to a set timetable, managed daily by Victor or Caitlin. This strict routine ensures that each horse gets the necessary exercise safely and in a controlled manner. It’s a world where equine health and well-being are held to the highest standard.

Naturally, I have developed favorites over time. Ella’s charming Estonian sport horse Hendel, with his calm temperament, is always a reliable companion. Another favorite is one of the younger members of Victor’s team, a five-year-old grey mare named Kera. Her vocal greetings and unique personality always bring a lively dose of energy and joy to the stable.

Mental Growth and Future Perspective

Looking back on this first month, I feel that I have grown both professionally and personally. I have become much more confident and tactful, learning to think more thoroughly about my actions. I must admit—this journey has been mentally demanding. Being away from home and adapting to a completely new pace of life has been a challenge, yet I feel that this experience is extremely valuable for my future.

I am very glad that I took this step. The first steps toward professional development have been made, which motivates me to keep progressing. I eagerly look forward to the upcoming competition season and training sessions, where I can participate in preparing horses, develop my riding skills, and deepen my knowledge of top-level horse care.

Belgium has opened my eyes in ways I could not have anticipated. This internship is teaching me how to create an environment where elite sports and heartfelt work come together. It is an investment in myself that will be remembered for a lifetime.

Triin Porohov
Horse Caretaker
PH-23