Before she sat down for an exclusive interview with Metropolitan, Dashing Equestrian President Li Jing, who opened the door for international equestrian events in China, made a lasting first impression with her elegant temperament.

"My dream is to pursue one thing. Looking back, I will recall that one, memorable thing, and that is enough," Li said.

Before founding the equestrian event planning, management and promotion company Dashing Equestrian, Li worked in architecture.

It was an opportunity that oddly led Li to equestrian sports. Li's daughter, Zhu Meimei, is a professional equestrian athlete. While taking her daughter for a practice ride one day, Li met Ludger Beerbaum, a highly-acclaimed German pro equestrian. After an initial chat, Ludger asked Li whether the pair might collaborate in bringing equestrian international events to China.

After living abroad from China for 27 years, Li returned to China to start her career in equestrian sports, and in February 2012 she established Dashing Equestrian. She believes every enterprise requires a deep understanding of the field, and every success relies on teamwork.

Li leads a young team of strong individuals who give her enterprise youthful enthusiasm and tenacious vigor.

She attaches importance to the cultivation of a team that discourages arrogance and is practical, efficient and grounded.

"The group of young people's fighting spirit infects me. At the same time, I sincerely show my gratitude to them for their efforts and hard-earned sweat," she added.

Speaking about Dashing Equestrian, Li says, "Another person I should thank is my daughter. Without her love for riding and horses, I may never have had the chance to engage in this business."

Li's daughter Zhu, who was born in Southern California, began equestrian sports at the age of 5. By the time she was 12, she ranked first in her age group for total points score in Southern California. Now, Zhu is coached by Ludger Beerbaum, and receives regular praise from him.

"I can learn from the effort and adventurous spirit of Meimei, which are essential elements for progress. I also have a strong to train her to become a world-leading equestrian sportswoman who will make a difference in equestrian sports in China," Li says.

Due to the intimidating expense of buying and training a horse, equestrianism is often considered an aristocratic sport. One of the highlights for this year's Longines Equestrian Beijing Masters, organized by Dashing Equestrian, was the idea of "equestrian sport for the people."

This concept was carried out in lower ticket prices and the Equestrian Festival part of the competition, which had no entry fee.

Li stresses that her and the other organizers' purpose is always "to let every person learn about equestrianism, get to know the equine culture, and pursue a love for riding."