Interview
Jumping International de Bordeaux: behind the scenes of the arena, as told by Sarah Rosato, volunteer
By day, she is a pharmacy technician. For the duration of the Jumping International de Bordeaux, she becomes one of the essential cogs of the arena. A volunteer for several editions now, Sarah Rosato is one of those pillars without whom the event would not be what it is. She takes us behind the scenes.
Tell us about a specific moment: it’s 3 p.m., one class has just ended and the next one starts in a few minutes. What happens in the arena?
It’s go time, and the arena is buzzing with energy. Everyone knows where they need to be and what their mission is. The race against the clock is on!
We clear the previous course, then set up the new one following the instructions of the course designers. Once everything has been measured down to the centimeter, the poles are placed on the standards. The dismantled elements are loaded onto trailers to be stored backstage.
Photo credit: Manon Lescarret Photographies
What is the gesture, task or detail that the public never sees, yet is essential to the smooth running of the Jumping International de Bordeaux competitions?
The public only sees the outside of the anthill, but underneath, there is the same activity and the same precision, with a touch of lightness. We keep the same rigor, but we add a few laughs. Everything happens behind the scenes: communication is essential there to be ready and efficient from the first whistle.
Several editions under your belt: what has changed in the way you experience the event, and what keeps you coming back every time?
Every edition is different: the volunteers change, and so does the program. We never know what to expect! Even with experience and seniority, fatigue sets in. It’s inevitable. On Sunday evening, we all gather, filled with emotion: it was intense, but we did it. And we say to each other, “See you next year.”
Is there an exchange or an encounter at the Jumping International de Bordeaux that has stayed with you?
I have had the opportunity to make many memorable connections. Within the organizing team, Sabine, Marion and Virginie are exceptionally kind, and our exchanges are rich. Thanks to them, we get golden opportunities!
Between volunteers and technicians, we go from strangers to friends in the space of five days. The best part is that these friendships last from one edition to the next.
A message for someone hesitating to volunteer: what would you say to them in one sentence?
Come laugh with us. We’ll be tired, yes, but we’ll be filled with memories!
Bonus question: three words to describe the arena crew?
Easy: rigorous, quirky, iconic.