Quinn G – On her way to triple gold?

Quinn G and Fiona Bigwood won the qualifier for seven-year-olds. Photo: Sportfoto Lafrentz

PRESS RELEASE

FEI WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championship for Young Horses

Verden. In 2023, she became World Champion of five-year-old dressage horses with 94.80 percentage points, at that time still under the saddle of Danish rider Betina Jäger. In 2024, she became World Champion of six-year-old dressage horses with an incredible 95 percent, now under the saddle of Fiona Bigwood. Today, she won in the seven-year-old qualifier at the FEI WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championship for Young Horses, presented by Matthias Schlamminger GmbH, with 80.177 percent: Exceptional mare and double world champion Quinn G. Will she win her third title on Sunday? Ilegro took second place in the qualifier with 77.634 percentage points, while TSF Gaspard ND came third with 77.075 percent.

“I've been dealing with the pressure for two months,” laughs Fiona Bigwood. The pressure of bringing a double world champion to the start of a World Championships for the third time. The British Olympic rider bought the mare before her first World Championship title, she says: “Hardly anyone knows that.” But the first time she sat on her, she immediately thought: “Wow, what a horse!” Through working with her every day, she has built up a very intense relationship with the mare. “I know her inside out! And she has such a great character. I could send my mother out cross-country with her, it wouldn't be a problem.”

In preparation for the World Championships in Verden, she rode the mare three to four times a week, spent a lot of time outside with her, kept her busy in a playful way and improved her fitness. “They have to deliver two top rounds here at the World Championships, so you can't start preparing three weeks beforehand, you have to start much earlier.” Quinn only competed in one tournament before the World Championships this year. “She doesn't need it more often. Of course, she's seven and there can always be something that distracts young horses, but she was so good to my aids today and the flying changes were all really good. I rode a bit on the safe side, but it was great fun. And afterwards she leaves the arena completely relaxed on a long rein – that's how she is. You can only enjoy that.”

The Quaterhit daughter is also a very complete horse with remarkably consistent scores. 8.4 for trot and canter, 8.7 for walk, 8.6 for submission and 8.8 for perspective. In the technical score, which is awarded by the judges at H and B, Quinn and Fiona Bigwood received 73.214 and 75.893 percentage points. The all-round talent was bred by the Geervliet breeding community from a Fassbinder dam.

“...he has a lot in common with Valegro.”

Charlotte Fry rode his sire Inclusive in Grand Prix sport, she has ridden several of his “relatives”, offspring of his dam's sire Negro, and his dam Jalegrofleur is a full sister to Olympic champion Valegro: Ilegro. The dark bay was bred by Mr and Mrs van Olst and also grew up at the van Olst stable in the Netherlands. However, head rider Charlotte Fry has only been in the saddle of Ilegro since January; until then, a stable colleague had taken over the training of the stallion. “We have already built up a great partnership in a short space of time and I think he has a lot in common with Valegro – that's fantastic. Ilegro took a little longer to develop, but we always knew he was something special,” explains “Lottie” Fry. "He is probably a little greener than most of the other seven-year-olds here, he hasn't seen much yet. So I had no idea how he would cope with the World Championships arena (Horse24 Arena) and the atmosphere here, but he gave me an incredible feeling.” He has so much power and energy, such a great character and he loves to work. “The most important thing for me is that the horses love their job.” And when she wants to give him a special treat, ...I kiss him on the nose – he absolutely loves it. It's really sweet." With a 9.7 for his trot, Ilegro achieved by far the highest score of the day. Overall, the individual scores for the quality assessment were 7.0 for walk, 8.8 for canter, 8.2 for submission and another 8.8 for perspective. The technical score for the runner-up was 68.036 and 72.50 percentage points. 

The quick learner – Gaspard

He is the first Trakehner since 2017 to catapult himself directly into a World Championship final: TSF Gaspard ND. The His Moment son did not manage a completely faultless round today under Cecilie Hedegaard, resulting in a technical score of 67.321 and 70.179 percentage points. In the quality assessment, the Trakehner stallion was even just ahead of Ilegro with 85.40 percent, compared to 85 percent. Like Charlotte, Cecilie has only been in the saddle of her World Championship partner since January: “In January, he couldn't even do flying changes,” the rider smiles. “He has developed so quickly and now here we are – it's unbelievable. He is very intelligent, really enjoys the sport and loves to perform.” She said she felt very good in the arena, but that there is still room for improvement. “I was really excited, it's my first World Championships,” admits the 24-year-old Dane. “For example, I rode really big circles. There's always something to improve.” The World Championship finalist was ridden by Dr Angelica Lauritzen, is owned by Nicole Derlin and had brought an extremely large cheering crowd with him to Verden. Gaspard's dam's sire Imperio showed how it could be done: in 2008, he won the silver medal at the World Championships for five-year-olds under Anna-Sophie Fiebelkorn, followed by the bronze medal a year later, and seven years later he travelled to the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro with Hubertus Schmidt as a replacement horse. But before Cecilie and Gaspard start thinking about the Olympics, they first have the World Championship final in the Horse24 Arena in Verden on Sunday at 11 a.m.

World Championship highlights

Exciting Sunday

“We saw a lot of good horses at a high level today,” summed up the chief judge of the competition, Henning Lehrmann. “What will make Sunday very exciting is that there weren't two or three horses that stood out from the rest. In that respect, small details could decide the outcome on Sunday. Many horses are at a very good level, but none of them stand out clearly.” 

Real World Championships flair

“It's just great fun to accompany the horses on their training journey,” emphasises riding master Dorothee Schneider. “Positive feedback from above is very important so that the horse realises: ‘Wow, I did that well.’ Then they are even more motivated.” Training horses is the passion of the two-time Olympic team champion, and the World Championships for young horses have a very special charm for her. “I've competed here in Verden many times.” Among other things, she won two of her three World Championship titles here with Sezuan. "A lot has been rebuilt here, the conditions are excellent, the World Championship arena is great and the spectators are enthusiastic. It has real World Championships flair."

“Stolzer James” tops the five-year-olds

Mette Sejbjerg Jensen wins the first qualifier for five-year-old dressage horses in Verden with Proud James. Photo: Sportfoto Lafrentz

PRESS RELEASE

FEI WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championship for Young Horses

Verden. In the qualifying round for five-year-old dressage horses at the FEI WBFSH World Championships for Young Dressage Horses, presented by Gestüt Vorwerk, the KWPN stallion Proud James took the lead with 89.60 percentage points. Two Oldenburgian horses followed in second and third place in Verden's Horse24 Arena: Viva Diamond OLD (87 percent) and Ferdinand de Fontaine (86.80 percent).

The best friend with the ‘wow factor’

Tears glistened in Mette Sejbjerg Jensen's eyes: “‘He is simply fantastic! He is talented, beautiful and, at the moment, the best friend I have. FEI WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championship for Young Horses”. “He” is the Jameson RS2 son Proud James. This fantastic horse was bred by Dutchman M. van Maasacker out of a Glock's Johnson dam and is owned by Helgstrand Dressage. The grey stallion had already made a big impression last year, securing victory in the final of the four-year-olds in the show programme of FEI WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championship for Young Horses. At that time, he was still under the saddle of Maxi-Kira von Platen, but Mette has since taken over his training. “He's just incredible when you ride him into the arena,” enthuses the 36-year-old Dane. "He just seems to ask, 'Where do you want to go? Relax, I'll take you there.'‘ Even when she rode him for the first time, she thought: “Wow!” “He always gives me that wow feeling, the feeling that I could ride him to the moon if I wanted to." He is always very focused in the test, even today, and he has that certain show factor. “He enters the arena, grows five centimetres and thinks to himself: ‘Hey, look at me!’ He has incredible self-confidence and I love that.” Her conclusion after the first World Championship test in Verden with Proud James: “It was incredible! The weather, the arena and the horse!” 

The winner received very consistent high marks in all five individual categories: 9.0 for trot, 8.8 for walk, 9.0 for canter, 8.8 for obedience and 9.2 for prospects. For his behaviour outside the arena, which the judges cannot evaluate, he would probably get a 12 from Mette. “He's like a puppy. He's the kind of horse that's never in a hurry, always relaxed.”

“Simply overwhelmed”

This is not quite how second-placed Linda Weiß describes the Vitalis daughter Viva Diamond OLD: “Everyone always thinks that Viva Diamond is very relaxed, but she's not as relaxed as she looks,” admits the 30-year-old professional rider with a smile. "I always have to make sure that she stays in her ‘own world’, so to speak, and that she feels comfortable there. But that worked very well today and she felt incredible in the arena.” Linda also took over training her successful partner a good year ago and has won every competition with her since then. When asked if she was a little disappointed about coming second in the World Championship qualifier, she replied, not entirely seriously, “Oh no, not at all, she laughs. “I never expected this success. It's my first start at a World Championships, it's so much more important than any normal tournament – I'm just overwhelmed.” Not least with the day's best score of 9.2 for the walk, Viva Diamond secured second place in the qualifiers. Her other individual scores were: 8.5 for trot, 8.4 for canter, 8.8 for obedience and 8.6 for perspective. The owner, Judith Köppel from 360° Sportpferde, was there, as was the breeder, Anne Alberding, who had ridden Zauberhaft, a daughter of Birkhof's Don Diamond, to second place in the qualifiers.

Wendy's son – through and through

Ferdinand de Fontaine, ridden by Finland's Merita Hagren, is a son of Olympic team champion Wendy de Fontaine (Isabell Werth). Ferdinand's sire is Franklin, his dam's sire is Sezuan, and he was bred by the French stud farm Chateau de Fontaine. The black horse is owned by River Oak Equine Sports GmbH. He is not only the son, emphasised the rider, he is also very similar to his dam Wendy. ‘Isabell (Werth) visited us once, sat on Ferdinand and said: “He's just like Wendy.”’ As Wendy's son, Ferdinand has a special place in her heart, explains the Finnish rider from the Helgstrand stable, which co-owns the bronze medallist through River Oak Equine Sports GmbH. “What's more, his sire Franklin is also with us. It's very special to see them grow up and follow their progress so closely.” Merita took over Ferdinand's training at the age of four, knows him inside out and explains: “It's so nice to ride a horse you trust completely in the World Championships. He would love to be stroked all day, then ridden briefly, do a great job and be stroked some more.” Ferdinand's individual scores ranged from 8.2 for his walk to 9.0 for his canter and prospects.

All three of the top-placed ladies agreed: if things went the same way on Sunday and they could award the medals among themselves in exactly the same way, they would be over the moon. Among the five-year-old candidates was the Hanoverian Secret son So Special, who secured the silver ribbon in the four-year-old class in the supporting programme of the 2024 World Championships under Jessica Lynn Thomas. A year earlier, the stallion had excelled as Vice-Champion at the Bundeschampionat in Warendorf. The five-year-olds also included the third-placed horse in the Bundeschampionat for four-year-old riding horses, Because of You OLD, ridden by Beatrice Hoffrogge. Both narrowly missed out on a place in the final, finishing 13th and 14th. Only the best twelve horses from the qualifiers qualified directly for Sunday's final. All the others still have the chance to earn a ticket for Sunday via the small final, with the best three receiving one of the coveted final tickets.

The small final for the five-year-old dressage horses is scheduled for Friday at 2.30 pm in Verden's Horse24 Arena.

World Championship highlights 

“I'm becoming more and more relaxed”

“Our main focus is on ensuring that the riders and horses feel comfortable here, that the conditions and, above all, the ground are so good that the riders can present their horses in the best possible light,” emphasises Wilken Treu from the Verden tournament management. “I admit that I am becoming more and more relaxed because the feedback I am receiving confirms that we are succeeding. That is the most important thing.” He is very much looking forward to the coming days – including the foal auction on Saturday evening and the charity event on Sunday. "There are only eleven foals that we are putting up for auction on Saturday, but I think they are of promising quality. Five of the sires, for example, competed in World Championships themselves, and one dam is the full sister of double World Champion Gut Wettlkam's D'avie FRH. So the World Championships are very clearly reflected in our foal lot. And on Sunday, we will be looking for a new owner for a special foal through a bidding process for a good cause, in aid of German Cancer Aid, and hope that we can raise a nice sum for cancer research."

Seven at one stroke

45 horses competed in the five-year-old qualifiers in Verden, seven of which are trained by the same trainer: Sebastian Heinze. Dutchman Bart Veeze was represented with two horses, Roman Empire and Pina Colada, Linda Weiß with Viva Diamond OLD, Charlott-Maria Schürmann with Viva las Vegas RS, Beatrice Hoffrogge with Because of You OLD, Lena Haßmann with Estelle PS NRW and the Australian Tayla Desmet with Dark Diamond. The former U25 national coach of the German dressage riders has become one of the most sought-after trainers around. His philosophy for the World Championships for five-year-olds: "At a World Championships, only horses of good quality compete, that's clear. It's about really good basic training, correct riding, very good contact and, of course, the form on the day. And then you also need riders who can support the good quality of the horses."

Danish double lead among the six-year-olds

Photo: Anne Troensegaard and Slangerupgaards Saffron win the first qualifier for six-year-old dressage horses

FEI WBFSH World Championships for Young Dressage Horses

Verden. The six-year-old dressage horses have made their debut at the FEI WBFSH World Championships for Young Dressage Horses in Verden. Two horses bred in Denmark secured the double lead in the qualification in the Horse24 Arena. The Secret-daughter Slangerupgaards Saffron took the lead with 92.20 percentage points, followed by Brandtbjergs Divya with a smooth 92 percent. Last year's world champion, Red Viper, took third place with 90 percent.

“…but I had a great feeling right away.”

Saffron was bred by the Slangerupgaard breeding farm from a Scolari dam, is still owned by the breeders and has been ridden by Anne Troensegaard for two years. Today, the elegant brown mare impressed the judges most in the trot test, scoring 9.7. She received an 8.9 for her walk, 9.0 for her canter, 8.9 for her rideability and 9.6 for her prospects.

Troensegaard, a former nurse, has been riding all her life. For the past 15 years, she has devoted herself entirely to training horses and is participating in the World Championships for Young Dressage Horses for the fifth time this year: “When I rode Saffron for the first time, I liked her right away, even though she was like a ‘long, thin spider’. But I had a great feeling about her right away.” As a five-year-old, the mare won the young horse competition in Herning, Denmark, and was awarded a 10 by both test riders. In the same year, she also qualified for the World Championships, but then broke her pastern bone. “I had to walk her for three months, then started riding her very slowly, and now here we are.” The mare held her breath a little in the arena today, but she was very relaxed in canter. The Danish championship rider knows how to win a World Championship medal. She celebrated the bronze medal in the seven-year-old class with the Trakehner Kipling in 2017. Anne Troensegaard is also familiar with the World Championships venue in Verden, having competed here in 2014 with Litvinenko Sjaelstofte. The stage is set for the final. Is she excited? “No, not really. All I have to do is ride.” Saffron will be given a light workout over the next two days leading up to the final, enjoy some massages, and go out to graze. “Everything is very relaxed,” emphasizes Troensegaard, who is looking forward to the final.

The second-placed Brandtbjergs Divya is by Hesselhoj Donkey Boy, goes back to Blue Hors Don Olymbrio on her dam's side and was bred by the Buhl family, Brandtbjerggaard. Divya is owned by Gestüt Søbakkehus and was presented by Anders Sjöbeck Hoeck. Her individual scores were: trot 9.5, walk 9.0, canter 9.2, rideability 8.7 and prospects 9.6.

Two Danes at the top – what is the ‘secret’ of Danish horse breeding in the eyes of winner Anne Troensegaard? “I think the success is due in no small part to the fact that Danish breeding has become very open and also uses a lot of stallions from Germany and Holland. They work a lot with German bloodlines.”

Last year, he secured the World Championship title for five-year-olds, at that time still under the saddle of Bart Veeze. Now Olympic rider Dinja van Liere is in the saddle: Red Viper by Blue Hors Romanov out of a Sir Sinclair dam, bred by Coen Kerbert and owned by Reesink Hengsthaltung. The impressive chestnut scored particularly well in the canter with a 9.5, the highest score of the day for this gait.

Best German duo: Greta Heemsoth and Endorphin FRH in fourth place. Photo: Stefan Lafrentz

Double pack for the final

Only one rider managed to qualify two horses for the final of the six-year-olds on Saturday: Greta Heemsoth. Riding Endorphin FRH, a son of Escolar, the rider from the Pape stable took fourth place with 87.80 percent, and with Felice FRH she took eighth place with 84.60 percent. Both horses already attracted attention at last year's Bundeschampionat. The Hannoveraner mare by Fürst Samarant earned the title of Bundeschampioness, while her stablemate Endorphin became Vice Bundeschampion. This is Greta Heemsoth's first time participating in a World Championships, and she was thrilled: “I am very happy with both horses. They are so different, but both performed very well today. Although, one or two things could be a little better,” she added with a smile. Neither horse managed the first flying change in the test today. "Endorphin likes to draw attention to himself, he has a lot of presence, but on the other hand he is very easy and refined to ride. Felice is very shy and very sensitive. She always needs someone she can really trust, who takes her by the hand and tells her, ‘You can do it.’“ The 32-year-old grew up in Verden and is looking forward to the final in the Horse24 Arena on Saturday. ”I'm sure some friends and my family will be there to cheer me on."

These World Championships are also a special experience for Greta's employer, the breeder and owner of Endorphin and co-owner of Felice, Ingo Pape: “I am a horse breeder with all my heart and am already proud that Endorphin is the first horse I have bred myself to compete in a World Championship.” He emphasizes that you always have a special relationship with a horse you have bred yourself, and then to ride that horse in a World Championships is something very special. Pape also has a relationship with Felice that spans generations: “I bred Felice's mother, her father, her grandmother, and her great-grandmother.”

Very good riding

The equestrian town of Verden is hosting the World Championships for the 18th time this year. Kurt Christensen, international dressage judge from Denmark and chief judge for the six-year-old qualifiers, summed up day one: “The arena here in Verden has improved significantly. There is a lot of space around the arena, which is very good for the young horses.” Christensen added about the quality of the six-year-olds: “We had some really good, high-quality horses at the start. It's also very close at the top, so there could be some changes in the final. And what we were very happy about in the judging panel was the good riding.”

World Championship highlights

Graf Rantzau Trophy for Verden

On the sidelines of the World Championships for Young Dressage Horses, the competition venue Verden was honored with the Graf Rantzau Trophy for show organizers. With this award, named after Breido Graf zu Rantzau, Honorary President of the German Equestrian Federation (FN) who died in 2022, the FN honors show organizers from all over Germany for their commitment and their exemplary role model function. German Equestrian Federation (FN) chairman Prof. Dr. Martin Richenhagen traveled to Verden especially to present the trophy to the show directors, Ulrike Kubelke and Wilken Treu.

Australian euphoria

At the age of three, Alexandra Vordermair bought Exact, son of Escamillo, right here in Verden and took him with her to her new home in Australia. Two years later, Exact became Australian Young Horse Vice Champion of the five-year-olds, and in 2025 he secured the Champion title among the six-year-olds. Shortly afterwards, in March this year, Vordermair, who now rides for Australia and has taken Australian citizenship, moved back to Germany. Since then, Exact and she have been at home at the Fichtenhof farm of her twin sister Andrea and her husband Arnaud Petit, where they train with Ferdinand Csaki. “We have worked towards this goal, this dream, for the past three years to be here today,” beamed the rider. “And it was magnificent!” At the final salute, the joy was unstoppable, Alexandra Vordermair threw her arms in the air, cheered euphorically, and showered Exact with countless kisses. With 15th place and 81 percent, it wasn't quite enough to qualify directly for the final. The best twelve horses from the qualification round will advance. But on Thursday, the six-year-olds who didn't make it directly to the final will compete in the so-called small final. The best three in the small final will also secure a ticket for Saturday, when the World Championship medals and titles will be up for grabs. 

Tickets for the FEI WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championship for Young Horses from August 6 to 10 at the tournament grounds on Lindhooper Straße in Verden are available from Ticketmaster at:

https://www.ticketmaster.de/artist/verden-international-tickets/981934?camefrom=de_va_pverd.

FEI Tribunal imposes 15-year suspension on Cesar Parra

FEI Press Release
Lausanne (SUI), 6 August 2025

In an outcome marking one of the most significant sanctions issued by the FEI Tribunal, a 15-year suspension has today been imposed against Dressage athlete Cesar Parra (USA) (FEI ID: 10000031), for actions violating the principles of horse welfare. Parra has also been fined CHF 15,000 and ordered to pay CHF 10,000 in legal costs.

A prominent figure in international equestrian sport, Parra has competed at the top level since 1998. He represented his native Colombia at the Pan American Games in 1999, the Olympic Games in Athens 2004, the FEI World Equestrian Games™ in 2002 and 2006, and the FEI World Cup™ Final in 2005. After switching nationalities in 2008, Parra went on to compete for the United States at the Pan American Games in 2011 and the FEI World Cup™ Final in 2014.

Parra has been provisionally suspended since 2 February 2024, when he was notified that he was under FEI investigation following reports of horse abuse submitted to US Equestrian.  

US Equestrian had received multiple allegations along with numerous videos and photographs showing Parra engaging in abusive behaviour and training methods involving several horses.

The FEI, in coordination with US Equestrian, launched an immediate investigation into the allegations that Parra had repeatedly and deliberately subjected the majority, if not all, of the horses he owned and trained to recurring and serious abuse over a number of years.

The investigation involved a thorough review of extensive video and photographic material, as well as multiple witness statements.

On 22 May 2024, the FEI initiated formal disciplinary proceedings against Parra, bringing forward three charges: i) abuse of horse; ii) conduct that brings the FEI and/or equestrian sport and the FEI into disrepute; iii) breach of the FEI Code of Conduct on the Welfare of the Horse.

“This case is deeply unsettling, not only because of the recurring nature of the abuse, but also because of the number of horses affected,” FEI Legal Director Mikael Rentsch said.

“That such behaviour came from a top-level athlete makes it all the more troubling. Our athletes are expected to represent and uphold the highest standards of horsemanship. Horse welfare is the foundation, not an add-on, of equestrian sport.

“The investigation demanded significant time and resources due to the volume and complexity of the evidence, which had to be meticulously verified. The 15-year suspension sends a clear message that regardless of profile or position, those who violate the principles of horse welfare will face serious consequences.”

Parra is banned from taking part in any competition or event, or in any related activity under the jurisdiction of the FEI or any National Federation. He is also prohibited from training any FEI registered Athletes and/or FEI registered Horses. The provisional suspension already served will count towards the 15-year sanction, which will end on 1 February 2039.

The full reasoned decision will be published here in due course. Parties can appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within 21 days of receipt of the full decision.

Sportiness in focus - Herwart von der Decken-Show

Photo: Champion Mare dressage Hann.Pr.A. Joyride (right) and reserve Champion MareHann.Pr.A. Ext.+ Embella Rose (photo: Hannoveraner Verband)

PART OF PRESS RELEASE

Verden. It is only awarded every four years: the Herwart von der Decken Prize. The family of Hann.Pr.St. Coco M was honoured with the most prestigious trophy awarded by the Hannoveraner Verband. The winner of the jumping mares was Hann.Pr.A. Unica, while Hann.Pr.A. Joyride took the dressage title. “All the mares had one thing in common: they came from extremely athletic dam lines,” summarised breeding director Ulrich Hahne.

The highlight of the Herwart von der Decken Show was the family competition. For the first time, a family with a show jumping pedigree was honoured. Hann.Pr.St. Coco M by Comte/Escudo II (breeder and exhibitor: Peter Mahler, Neuhaus/Oste) won with her two Grey Top daughters Hann.Pr.A. Golden Hour M and Hann.Pr.A. Golden Moment M. Almost exactly ten years ago to the day, the liver chestnut mare was celebrated as the champion jumping mare in Verden. The reserve champion family was the family of St.Pr.St. Fantastica by Fürst Nymphenburg/Wolkentanz (breeder: Koelmann GbR, Bad Bentheim, exhibitor: Anneli Brunckhorst, Hollenstedt), which presented her two daughters Hann.Pr.St. Brasilia by Bon Coeur and Hann.Pr.A. Soleil d'Amour by Secret (breeder and exhibitor: Anneli Brunckhorst, Hollenstedt). “The tradition of family competitions must be upheld. The mares are the most valuable asset in breeding,” said Dr Norbert Camp. The Managing Chairman of the Trakehner Association assessed the seven families together with State Stud Manager Dr Axel Brockmann and deputy breeding director Maren Schlender.

54 mares competed in the dressage competition. The trio of judges included Arend Garrn and breeding director Ulrich Hahne, as well as Dutch stallion owner and dressage expert Gertjan van Olst. The decision in the top-class final ring was exciting. Her powerful movements and presence on the triangle track were a real “joyride”. The Jovian/San Amour daughter Joyride (breeder and exhibitor: Heinrich Gießelmann, Barver) thrilled the audience and won the coveted white and yellow sash of the winning dressage mare. She thus surpassed her dam Suri, who was reserve champion mare at the same venue in 2016. This year, this title went to Hann.Pr.A. Ext.+ Embella Rose by Escolar/Rubin-Royal (breeder and exhibitor: Johannes zur Lage, Bersenbrück), who not only displayed spectacular movements but also had a flawless conformation. “The overall quality of the dressage mares was very good, but that's no surprise. The mares were very modern and moved well,” said Gertjan van Olst.

PODCAST og VIDEO - besøg hos Barnow Dressage inden afrejsen mod Susanne´s femte UVM

En snak om mange forskellige emner bl.a. om den klassiske tilgang til uddannelse af hestene, hvor ikke alle heste bliver Grand Prix heste.

Onsdag går turen mod Verden sammen med 7-årige EQ Secret Surprice som er avlet og ejet af Susanne Oldenborg. Susanne fortæller om de sidste forberedelser.

UVM lejren samles omkring Barnow Dressage og lastbilen, hvor der gøres klar med grill og hygge. For dem der har brug for at hænge ud, eller tage en slapper, er der altid en ledig stol.

Hjertehesten Skovdals Dexter er godt på vej mod stor tur. Snakken går også på de udfordringer der har været under vejs, og som nogle gange har været dråben der får bæret til at flyde over.

Susanne har gennem sit nye samarbejde med træner Allan Hansen, nu også fået mulighed for at have de ekstra øjne med på sidelinien, når hun rider ad midten til stævnerne.

GUIDED TOUR PÅ BÅDE BARNOW DRESSAGE OG RESTEN AF EJENDOMMEN SOM OGSÅ HUSER KIRSTINELUND RIDECENTER ⬇️

Definite KWPN entries for WCYH in Verden

7 yr old Ilegro by Inclusive / Negro (out of the full sister of Valegro) & Lottie Fry are selected. Photo: Van Olst Horses.

Corrected KWPN entries as the FEI rules says that your not allowed to participate in both youth and senior championship in the same year.

5 year old

  • Pina Colada (v.Governor) & Bart Veeze

  • Port-au-Prince (v.Desperado) & Kirsten Brouwer

  • Proud James (v.Jameson RS2) & Mette Sejbjerg Jensen

  • Pythagoras Wk (v.All At Once) & Franka Loos

  • Roman Empire (v.Romanov) & Bart Veeze

  • Pitch Perfect (v.Le Formidable) & Vai Bruntink

  • Reserve: Murk 540 (v.Teun 505) & Franka Loos

6 year old

  • O’Toto Van De Wimphof (v.Glock’s Toto Jr) & Diederik van Silfhout

  • Obsession Taonga (v.Vitalis) & Lara van Nek

  • Ohio (v.Kaiman) & Kirsten Brouwer

  • Red Viper (v.Romanov) & Dinja van Liere

  • Ortisei (v.Glock’s Toto Jr) & Julia Groenhart

  • Orange (v.Vitalis) & Kim Alting

  • Reserve: Obsession A (v.Dream Boy) & Anke van Moer

7 year old

  • Everest (v.Especial) & Charlotte Fry

  • Ilegro (v.Inclusive) & Charlotte Fry

  • Naomyi de la Fazenda (v.Secret) & Thalia Rockx

  • Newton M (v.Just Wimphof) & Aniek de Laat

  • Nordic Blue Hors (v.Totilas) & Danielle Heijkoop

  • Most Wanted Nero von Bellin (v.Morricone) & Leonie Richter

  • Reserve: Nashville Sw (v.Secret) & Femke de Laat

PODCAST - Ungrytter Julie Dam Jensen var fornylig med til at vinde EM team bronze til Danmark

Ungrytter Julie Dam Jensen og hendes 9-årige vallak Finale Melody var med til at vinde EM team bronze i Kronberg i Tyskland. Finale Melody er efter Franklin / Schwadroneur og avlet af Else Rohmann og ejet af Julie Dam Jensen. Julie har selv stået for al uddannelse af ham frem til nu, med Jesper Bisgaard og senest også med Maik Kohlschmidt på sidelinien.

Parret sluttede som nr. 5 og nr. 4 med 2 x personlige bedste score i de individuelle konkurrencer.

Sammen med team kollegaerne Michella Skovsager med Blue Hors Elliot og Anna Taibel Raben med Sparaday vandt Julie og Finale Melody team bronze.

Efter sidste år at have afsluttet studentereksamen, har det seneste år stået 100% i hestene tegn. Julie har altid drømt om en plads på landsholdet, og i år gik drømmen endelig i opfyldelse.

Julie fortæller bl.a. om vejen mod landsholdsdebuten, kammeratskabet, det at ride på et team, om med opbakningen fra både familie, venner og konkurrenter.

At række ud efter økonomisk støtte, hos folk som Julie ikke kendte, for at kunne udleve drømmen om at ride EM, og så samtidig levere resultater, der var langt over egne forventninger.

23 - 27 Oldenburger Landesturnier (National Oldenburger Championship) including Elite mare Show 24 July

Young horses championship and Elite mare Show

For the Oldenburger Landesturnier the most attractive competitions to follow are the young horse competitions including the young stallions. Starting Wednesday 9.30 with 4 yr old stallions.

Link for start and results.

Elite Mare Show Thursday

55 young mares are qualifies for the prestigious Elite mare show in Rastede with some really high scores from the performance testing.

  • 18 by Bond/Damon Hill/Roaster - Trot 8,50 - canter 9,00 -walk 8,50 - ride ability test rider 8,50 = 8,65

  • 23 by Dynamic Dream/Sir Donnerhall/Don Schufro - Trot 10,00 - canter 9,00 - walk 9,00 - ride ability test rider 9,50 = 9,20

  • 25 by Dynamic Dream/Finest/Dimaggio - trot 9,00 - canter 9,00 - walk 8,00 - ride ability test rider 9,50 = 8,68

  • 28 by Florida TN/Sir Donnerhall I/Lavauzelle AA - trot 9,00 - canter 10,00 - walk 8,00 - ride ability test rider 9,50 = 8,95

  • 42 by Sezuan/D´avie/Don Schufro - trot 8,50 -canter 9,00 -walk 8,50 - ride ability test rider 9,00 = 8,68 (close to full 🇩🇰Danish Warmblood bloodlines with Sezuan out out Uno Donna Unique)

Here you find the entire catalog.

Judging team for the Elite mare show: Josef Freese, Ute von Platen, Dr. Evelin Schlotmann, Peer Eitenmüller and Oliver Oellrich.

From the arena to the stars : a spectacular day at the Championship

Cadre Noir - Photo © B. Lemaire / IFCE

PRESS RELEASE

FEI Dressage European Championship – Crozet (FRA) – August 27 to 31, 2025

On Saturday, rest day between the Grand Prix Special and the Grand Prix Freestyle of the FEI Dressage European Championship, the organisers have planned a familyfriendly interlude, culminating in a performance by the prestigious Cadre Noir de Saumur and the acrobatic show “Galileo.”

On Saturday, 30 August, while no sporting competitions will take place at Jiva Hill Stables in Crozet (FRA), families are warmly invited to visit the exhibitors' village from 10 am, with free admission for the day. More than twenty stands will be open to visitors, alongside activities for younger guests, including popular pony rides that are always a favourite among aspiring riders. Two refreshment stands and several food trucks will be available to serve snacks and drinks in the enchanting setting of Jiva Hill Stables.

Traditional French equestrianism

In the evening, the organisers will present two exceptional shows, beginning with the well renowned Cadre Noir de Saumur. This iconic institution of French equestrian art will deliver a two-part performance. The first part will feature an equerry from the Cadre Noir providing commentary on the figures, highlighting the horse’s work, the rider’s mastery, and the precision and elegance of the presentation. The second part will offer a 15-minute performance celebrating the rich heritage of French equestrianism, whose reputation extends far beyond the circle of aficionados.

Celestial Theatre

Next comes the turn of the acrobats from the Compagnie Deus Ex Machina with their breathtaking aerial performance “Galileo”. At the heart of the show is a monumental, articulated sphere suspended more than 15 metres above the ground, around which the acrobats perform. This immense structure, reminiscent of ancient astronomical instruments, carries the performers through circular movements echoing the celestial mechanics of bygone times. Playing with the forces of physics – weights and counterweights, pendulums and ellipses – the troupe delivers a mesmerising spectacle. Renowned for their spectacular aerial creations, the company blends acrobatic mastery, stagecraft and stunning lighting effects. With their gaze fixed on the stars, spectators will be transported into a world of magic for one unforgettable evening.

For this exceptional evening, special tickets are now available on the FEI Dressage European Championship website, www.crozet2025.com. Guests may also book a table on the hospitality terrace or at the Casa Jiva stand, with menus served between the two shows. Full booking details are also available on the event website.

Aachen debut for Danish Warmblood stud JJ Horses based in Norway

JJ Horses was recently, for the first time ever, represented as a breeder at the most prestigious event in the world: CHIO Aachen.

Over the years, JJ Horses in Norway has been selling offspring to clients all around the world. This year marked a significant milestone, as JJ Horses was officially listed as a breeder for the international competition at Aachen.

The reason JJ Horses, based in Norway, is registered with Danish Warmblood is that Ole Jørgen Jørgentvedt, the owner of JJ Horses, has been one of the pioneers of Warmblood breeding in Norway. He has also been a key figure behind the Norwegian division of Danish Warmblood.

From promising young stallion now towards Grand Prix

Video below from Danish Warmblood stallion pre-selection December 2018 ⬇️ when JJ Glory Day was 2,5 yr old.

9 year old stallion JJ Glory Day by Grand Galaxy Win / Deemster has been under American ownership since he was 3 years old by Alice Tarjan, who is also the owner of the international super Grand Prix mare Jane. Both horses are ridden by Marcus Orlob.

Shortly after Aachen H2R caught Marcus Orlob for a small chat about JJ Glory Day and their debut in Aachen.

They started their journey when Glory Day was 3,5 yr old and Marcus got him in training from the owner Alice Trajan. From there they have been successful at young horse level with victories and top placements for the young horse championships in USA. As a 7 yr old Glory Day was also qualified for WCYH but they chose not to go to Europe at that time. During this winter season in Florida, Glory Day and Marcus made a successful step into Inter II level winning Lövsta Future Challenge.

During their stay in Europe Marcus and the horses were based in Düsseldorf, as this is his old hometown, where he stayed with family and caught up with old friends. As Aachen is about 1 hour drive from Düsseldorf Marcus has orginally planned to drive between Düsseldorf and Aachen in order to train Glory Day during the event. Luckily he was accepted to bring Glory Day for the small tour in Aachen, which made the entire stay much more convenient, and at the same time gave Glory Day a valuable experience, being in the big Aachen invironment.

The setting in Aachen, with training and warm up with spectators taking place or walking behind the hedge, was a bit stressful for Glory Day and it of course also affected his performances in the arena, as there was quite a bit of tension, but still well-behaved, tell Marcus.

“Glory Day is a very handsome and nice stallion,” says Marcus. “He usually goes hacking and has daily paddock time as all other horses. He is training towards Grand Prix debut, but still needs a bit more time, in order to become more stable and confirmed.” During their Düsseldorf stay Marcus also had the chance to train for Hubertus Schmidt, who was very impressed about the qualities for the future.

The dam of JJ Glory Day

The rideability and qualities has for sure been proven through the dam line of JJ Glory Day, JJ Dolce Gabanna by Deemster / Riccione / Donnerhall, as she as a youngster herself won the national championship with three different rider as 4 yr, 5 yr and 6 yr old.

JJ Dolce Gabanna has also produced Java Dulce by Jazz (former JJ Jaguar) which is now successful with American Laura Graves, and JJ Spencer by Secret at WCYH in 2024 with Jessica Lynn Thomas.

Last year Dolce Gabanna had a full sibling to JJ Glory Day, and this year she has a stunning black colt by Pround James.

German young horses selected for WCYH in Verden 5-10 August (including H2R favourites 🌟)

Segantini FRH and Dorothee Schneider were also last year part of WCYH for 6 yr old horses and will again this year compete for 7 yr old horses. Photo: (c) Stefan Lafrentz

German young horses selected yesterday. (🌟marked were the clear highlights from H2R)

5 yr old

  • Because of you OLD, by Benicio – Dimaggio (Breeder: Zuchthoff Hollen/Jan Calender, Rider: Beatrice Hoffrogge)

  • Estelle PS by Escalito – Wynton (breeder: Peter Spelsberg, rider: Lena Haßmann) 🌟

  • Ferdinand De Fontaine by Franklin – Sezuan (Breeder.: SCEA Domaine Fontaine L’Abbé, rider: Merita Hagren) 🌟

  • So Special, by Secret – Bon Coeur (Breeder.: Pia Sophie Wahlers, rider: Jessica Lynn Thomas)

  • Valentin, by Vitalis – DonSchufro (Breeder.: Jutta Steidl, Rider: Johanna Wadenspanner)

  • Viva Diamond OLD, by Vitalis – Don Diamond (Breeder.: Zuchthof Alberding, Rider: Linda Weiß)

  • Viva Diamond, by Viva Gold – Don Diamond (Breeder: ZG Herbert & Ursula Linz, Rider: Lisa Wernitznig) 🌟

  • Viva las Vegas RS, by Viva Gold – Foundation (Breeder.: Reinhard Baumgartner, Rider: Charlott-Maria Schürmann) 🌟

  • Reserve 1 - For Royalty, by For Romance I – Franziskus (Breeder.: Berthold Schoemaker, Rider: Leonie Richter)

  • Reserve 2 - D'Egalité Gold, by Dancier Gold – Totilas (Breeder.: Christine Schmitz, Rider: Borja Carrascosa)

6 yr old

  • Endorphin FRH, by Escolar Don Nobless (Breeder.: Ingo Pape, Rider: Greta Heemsoth) 🌟

  • Escaneno, by Escamillo – Veneno (Breeder.: Tobias Schult, Rider.: Lisa Lindner) 🌟

  • Felice FRH, by Fürst Samarant – Riverside (Breeeder: Rene Jansen, Rider.: Greta Heemsoth) 🌟

  • Füchtels Hailey, by Don Martillo – Damon Hill (Breeder.: Andrea Gräfin von Merveldt, Rider: Patricia Seddig)

  • La Jolie SW, by Escamillo – Londonderry (Breeder: Sabine Wehle, Rider: Carina Scholz)

  • Schatzmeister MZ, by Secret – De Niro (Breeder.: Ewald Grotelüschen, Rider: Ann-Christin Wienkamp)

  • Vitamin B, by Valverde – Christ (Breeder: Hedda Ottmann-Droege, Rider: Charlott-Maria Schürmann) 🌟

  • WinHorses Eleven, by Escamillo – Den Haag (Breeder: Roukaz Soufiah, Rider: Flore De Winne)

  • Reserve 1 - Vitali PS, by Vitalis – Sandro Hit (Breeder.: Gestüt Lewitz, Rider: Charlott-Maria Schürmann)

  • Reserve 2 - Glamdale WP NRW, by Glamourdale – Millennium (Breeder:: ZG Werner & Heike Pleines, Rider: Stefanie Ahlert).

7 yr old

  • Elliot the Dancer, by Escolar – Vitalis (Breeder: Leo Hermanns, Rider: Stefan Wolff) 🌟

  • Füchtels High Light OLD, by Floriscount – Damon Hill (Breeder: Andrea Gräfin von Merveldt, Rider: Patricia Seddig) 🌟

  • Gaspard, by His Moment – Imperio (Breeder: Angelica Lauritzen, Rider: 🇩🇰Cecilie Hedegaard) 🌟

  • Rocketeer, by Rock Forever I– Franziskus (Breeder: Thomas Holling, Rider.: Laurin Hofmann)

  • Rumours, by Revolution – Bequia (Breeder: Michael Procter, Rider: Maren Müller-Bentes)

  • Segantini FRH, by Secret – Fidermark (Breeder: Christine Feichtinger, Rider: Dorothee Schneider) 🌟

  • Zewano, by Zackerey – Romanov Blue Hors (Breeder: Alessandro Alemani, Rider: Franz Trischberger)

  • Zulu GV, by Zarathustra MT – Sorento (Breeder: Gestüt Vorwerk/Inh.Elisabeth Max-Theurer, Rider: Laura Strobel)

  • Reserve 1 - Top Shelf, by Top Gear – Sandro King (Breeder: Günter Kolb, Rider: 🇩🇰Laila Wittendorff)

  • Reserve 2 - About You II, by AC-DC – Estobar NRW (Breeder: Stephan Borgmann, Rider: Yara Reichert)

Source: https://www.pferd-aktuell.de/news/aktuelle-meldungen/zucht/nominierung-wm-der-jungen-dressurpferde-2025-

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