Dirk Dijkstra is a Grand Prix Rider, Level 3 General Instructor, Coach, Coach educator and accessor, Breeder, Trainer and former A level Judge and Warmblood colt classifier.

Dirk Dijkstra is a domestically competing international Grand Prix rider with over 40 years of experience. He has been coaching since the age of 16 in the Netherlands where he grew up and he obtained his Dutch Basic Coaching License before coming to Australia in 1982, then going on to become a fully accredited EA Level 3 Coach. He currently competes on his imported Dutch Warmblood stallion AEA Metallic as well as Royalito owned by Viv Lipshut. Metallic was trained by Dirk right through to Grand Prix and this hands-on training and competition experience continues to be an invaluable source when he is coaching and mentoring students.

Dirk heads up Jolong Park and spends much of his day coaching clients of all levels, from young riders at Interschool level right through to Grand Prix. Dirk is one of the only coaches in Australia who both competes at the highest level as well as coaches. His coaching system parallels the way he rides, based on the Dutch system inspired by Anky and Sjef Van Grunsven, who were is early inspiration. His coaching is structured towards the modern type of horse that is being bred now rather than the classic type which no linger really exists.

Dirk is an incredible coach and amongst his very busy schedule running Jolong Park, riding horses and competing, his students always come first. Dirk is incredibly humble and always helps his students not only with their riding but with their confidence as well. He also assists students with the management of their horse to ensure they reach their very best. He is passionate about his role as coach but believes in keeping things very simple. The journey to Grand Prix is a long one and he believes that students need to understand that patience, discipline, perseverance, dedication and commitment are five of the most important ingredients.