He remembers precisely how his love for riding horses began. As a young child, he accompanied his mother and father to their amateur show jumping competitions in Mexico. Carlos quickly went from spectator to rider, and with little delay his family pastime became his own passion. “The first time I realized that I wanted to give this sport everything I had was when I won my first international competition at the Global Champions Tour in Cannes. I was only 13 years old at the time, but it made me realize that I had a chance to do great things in the sport,” Carlos, now 20 years old, recalls.
 

Carlos grew up in Mexico City, and at age 10 he moved to California to continue refining his skills. In 2016, he won gold at the North American Young Rider Championships, and two years later he won the Under 25 Grand Prix in Palm Beach. In 2019 Carlos nabbed Top 10 finishes in both the Brussels Masters 5-Star Grand Prix, and the Queen Elizabeth II 5-Star Grand Prix in Calgary. Clearly, the young athlete was already doing great things in the sport as he had anticipated years earlier in Cannes. He ranked number 1 in the world for his age group by the time he turned 18 and reached a ranking of number 13 in the world for riders under 25. Today, Carlos divides his time between Belgium and Florida, competing in show jumping’s most prestigious competitions on two continents, with a first-place finish at a five-star Grand Prix being one of the goals firmly in Carlos’ sights.
 

His lifelong goal—to compete in the Olympics—also looms large. While Mexico’s team members have yet to be confirmed, Carlos dreams of the opportunity to compete on behalf of his home country in the Games. “I have been fortunate enough to be able to represent my country of Mexico globally, being part of the Mexican team in five-star competitions throughout Europe and America. For me the greatest feeling, being part of an individual sport, is coming together as a team and representing your nation at the highest level,” Carlos says.
 

His training regimen typically consists of riding six horses per day, for one hour each, seven days a week, with regular strength workouts and mental training also of great importance. In all endeavors, he wears his RM 35-01 in Carbon TPT®. “It has become somewhat of a lucky charm of mine, and since it is so lightweight it is perfect for the sport,” the new Richard Mille partner confides.
 

Just as his parents ignited his passion for show jumping, Carlos can thank another family member for sparking his admiration for Richard Mille watches. “I got the passion for them from my grandfather. These timepieces are not only very beautiful to see, but the best part is being able to wear them always, no matter what sport or activity you do,” he attests.

(Images © Richard Mille / Chrris Taniere)