Eric Lamaze started to ride for the very first time when he was 12 and made progress by working in exchange for riding opportunities. His initial success and great talent paved the way for access as a ‘working pupil’ to the stables of the former rider and outstanding coach – probably the most famous in the world – the United States’ George Morris (in New Jersey). Working for Morris was also an opportunity to learn to ride very possible kind of horse and to do so very quickly, seeing that he often competed on horses he had effectively almost never even seen before. Just one year after riding in his first Grand Prix (1992) he was selected as a member of the Canadian team. His individual bronze medal won in Rio has made him one of the most successful Canadian riders in all Olympic Games.

Of the many horses with which he has achieved such astonishing results, the small horse Hickstead was the one that managed to captivate and thrill entire crowds of spectators enchanted by his speed, agility and courage. Eric Lamaze, riding Hickstead, was the first Canadian to win an Olympic gold medal and like two parts of one identical energy and will to win, Eric and Hickstead together became something that was really amazing. 

During his free time he plays golf, travels and restores homes. Before entering the arena he always follows a specific and identical routine putting on his boots, clothes and spurs following a very precise order.