Karolina KielbasaBorgström

My name is Karolina Kielbasa Borgström, I’m a 31 year old showjumping rider from southern Sweden, where I also live on a farm. Horses have always been a natural part of my life, as both of my parents worked with horses and competed at a high level. Growing up in that environment, from breeding foals to producing young horses and competing at the top level, has taught me to stay hands on, patient, and humble throughout the entire process. Working with horses teaches you that development takes time and that nothing can ever be taken for granted.

What I love most about this life is being part of a horse’s journey from the very beginning. From their first breath, through their first years, first jumps, first competitions, and eventually seeing them develop into Grand Prix horses, being their partner throughout that journey is incredibly rewarding and what motivates me every day.

One of the things I’m most proud of is not a medal or a victory, but the journey with my father’s 6 year old stallion that I took over when I was just 13 years old. Together, we developed all the way to 4* Grand Prix level and World Cup competitions. We experienced many ups and downs along the way, but we learned and grew together. That journey taught me patience and trust in the long term development of horses.

Today, we have 13 horses at home, ranging from foals to retired horses. Every year we breed one or two foals, so there are always young horses coming up through the system. Our goal is to breed future top sport horses, while always keeping the horses’ wellbeing first. We strongly believe horses should be allowed to be horses and be given the time they need to grow, develop, and stay sound for a long career. We never rush the process, and I truly believe that patience is key to building both healthy horses and sustainable success.

I first came across Hartog in 2018, during a difficult hay season in southern Sweden caused by extreme heat and poor harvests. We needed to supplement our forage with lucerne products, and through our feed supplier we discovered Hartog Grass Mix. Both we and the horses immediately loved it, and since 2020 I’ve proudly been part of Team Hartog.

Depending on the horses’ needs, we use both Lucerne Mix and Grass Mix, although personally I especially like the Grass Mix. It’s practical to bring to shows when packing space for hay is limited, and it also works very well for horses that tend to eat too quickly, as it helps slow them down when mixed with their hard feed.

Being part of Team Hartog feels like both an honour and a confirmation that Hartog believes in me, not only as a rider, but also as a person and horsewoman. I’m incredibly grateful for our cooperation.

You can follow me on social media through Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. While I may not be the most active creator, as most of my time is spent with the horses, I do enjoy sharing glimpses of everyday life in the stable. For me, it’s important to show not only the glamorous side of the sport, but also the real daily work behind it all. And of course, feel free to let me know what you’d like to see more of!