She and Petronella Andersson are the same age, both born in 1991. Two years later, Wilma Hellström came into the world. About ten years later, they met at competitions with their ponies, got in touch and one thing led to another since they already then showed a rare talent as riders.
I and "Nella" (Petronella Andersson) have probably competed together since we were ten, something. Wilma probably joined when we were around 13, says Landeblad.
During their teens, they rode together in several different championships as juniors and young riders. As seniors, they have done several nations' show jumping competitions together.
”She was completely wild”
The memories are many and the friendship has lasted.
It started so incredibly early. "Nella" and I took bronze in Ebraichsdorf in young rider 2012 and I and Amanda jumped the Nordic Championship. As long as I can remember, we have been camping together, says Wilma Hellström.
I remember Petronella from when we were small. She was completely wild with her little white B-pony. She drove around like a madman in the arena. Wilma and I rode together for the first time in the Swedish Championship. It was probably already 2008. That's when we got to know each other and we have been best friends since then, says Landeblad and continues:
That's what's so fun about the sport that you gather and become close friends for life.
Today, European Championship debutant Landeblad has the most contact with Hellström.
We probably talk to each other five to ten times a day. We talk a lot on the phone...
And not just equestrian-related topics?
- No, absolutely. We are best friends. Nowadays, we no longer live in the same country, but we are only a phone call away.
This is how the Swedes start
The friendship and all the shared experiences, Petronella Andersson sees as a great advantage.
We know where we have each other. We all have different personalities, everyone gets the space they need, she says.
The initial time jumping at the European Championship in La Coruña starts at 15.00. The Swedish riders' start numbers:
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Angelie von Essen/Voila (rides only individually).
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Erika Lickhammer van Helmond/Comme Tessa.
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Wilma Hellström/Cicci.
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Amanda Landeblad/For Killy.
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Petronella Andersson/Opaline.
Amanda Landeblad about...
Wilma Hellström
Wilma is a bit more reserved but the world's nicest to have around.
Petronella "Nella" Andersson
"Nella" is the funniest in the gang. She can always get a fun conversation going. She is a super nice and warm person.
Wilma Hellström about..
Amanda Landeblad
We are similar in many ways. We often dress alike, come down and say "Oh, again".
Petronella Andersson
She is incredibly funny. There is a lot of energy in her. She is quick-witted. There is a lovely balance in the gang.
Petronella Andersson about...
Amanda Landeblad
Amanda is very laid-back and always joins in.
Wilma Hellström
Wilma may be the one who has the most ideas, everything between heaven and earth so that something happens. They are two very happy girls. Positive, good teammates who are always there and support.
You are described by both as very funny.
I may try to keep the mood up. I am probably one who has a lot of energy. I like it when things happen. It can be just about anything. I am not one who likes to lie in the room and watch Netflix all day, says Andersson.
