Since June, Lauren Paris has joined the SOAL team at Auch as a permanent employee. Balancing billing, administrative management, and versatility in serving her colleagues, she juggles her professional career and her passion for horseback riding with the same rigor and energy.
An extraordinary and unique duo
Lauren’s passion for horses dates back to her childhood. At 18, she made her dream come true by welcoming Ald Nazareno, a purebred Spanish horse now aged 11. Since then, a true story has been unfolding between them, marked by learning, companionship, and constant progress. « When I bought him, he was two years old and knew nothing of life, » Lauren recalls. « I accompanied him through all the stages: leading him on a rein, accepting the saddle, and then accepting me. I showed him the world. »
Over the years, Ald Nazareno and Lauren have become inseparable, sharing both dressage sessions and trails or competition outings. «We are a couple in our own right,» she explains. «He’s like me, sometimes he reacts when I react, but that’s what makes us strong. He’s my partner, my twin. » A rare companionship that adds beauty to their shared journey.
Competitions at the highest level
Thanks to regular work and impeccable organization, Lauren and Ald Nazareno qualified this year for the French dressage championships in Lamotte-Beuvron, a must-attend event in the equestrian world. « When I saw the mention on the Federation’s website, You have qualified, I felt an immense pride, » she recalls. Earning the necessary points was no easy feat, but perseverance paid off. « Each competition earned me only a few points, so I had to keep going. But I never give up, I gave it my all. »
On site, the scale of the competition greatly impressed her: « It was gigantic! Dozens of arenas, people everywhere, horses, bicycles, tents… I wasn’t expecting that. » Her events were marked by capricious weather, but she managed to make the most of this experience.«Finishing 16th out of 26 with my own horse, whom I’ve trained from the start, is an immense satisfaction, » she confides. More than a ranking, it’s another step in a progression that keeps her motivated.
A balance between profession and passion
Very invested in her role at SOAL, Lauren manages to balance her professional activity with her equestrian commitment. « Every evening, I go see my horse. And on weekends, I’m in competitions, » she explains. This investment, far from being a constraint, brings her precious balance: « Horseback riding really allows me to relax after work. I feel alive, just him and me, nothing else. »
Her dog Paco, who accompanies her even in competition, completes this life rhythm characterized by animals and sports. This demanding passion is also a driver of rigor. «When you take care of an animal, you have no choice: even if you’re tired, even if you have a headache, you go. Because it’s a responsibility and also a pleasure. »
At work and in sports, Lauren can count on the support of her colleagues and her manager, Laurence Ferret, who encourage and congratulate her successes. Looking ahead, she maintains a determined but measured ambition: « I don’t know yet if I’ll return to the championships next year, it’s a big investment. But I’m not closing any doors. Competitions resume in the fall, and we’ll see where it leads us. »
We have no doubt that Lauren will continue to progress and share her passion with the same energy and determination. The entire SOAL team wishes her the best for the future, both in her professional career and in her sporting adventures with Ald Nazareno.
