After the closest fought final for some years, Bram Chardon (NED) took his third FEI Driving World Cup™ title in Bordeaux (FRA) by beating Boyd Exell (AUS) into second place – by only 0.83!  Making the victory even more special, his father – the great Ijsbrand Chardon (NED) – took third place and during the prize ceremony they proudly stood together on the podium.

Going into Sunday’s final competition, the question as to who would win remained more open than ever after the small margins between the drivers on Saturday night’s opening competition.  Bram started his second day on zero points due to the special scoring system used in a final, which gave him an advantage, but the 50% differences carried over for those behind him ultimately made little impact on the positions.

As the penultimate Driver in the arena in the first round, he produced a quick clear, to put the pressure on Boyd.  In a nip and tuck race, Boyd upped the ante and drove one of the best rounds of his season to go a mere 0.33 ahead.  Joining them in the top three, Ijsbrand improved on his position and rose two places with 142.35 to guarantee himself a place on the podium alongside his son.

Running in reverse order for the drive-off, Ijsbrand was first back in and completed his last, clear round of the event over a slightly reduced course in 121.30, to give him a combined score of 263.65.  

"For me it is a bonus that my father is on the podium too, like last year.  And my sisters are a crucial part of the team too, so it all stays in the family, which makes victories like this more special and the journey home even better."

Bram Chardon (NED)

Bram said afterwards he was concerned that he had the least time of the three remaining Drivers to rest his horses between the rounds.  But his Lipizzaners drew on their stamina and agility to produce another display of precise lines with powerful runs, and a clear in 116.41, giving him a total of 251.86.

Boyd had the advantage of resting his horses for a little longer before his drive-off, but as he entered the arena a bungee on one of the leader’s harness needed a quick repair, which delayed his start.  He said it didn’t impact his round – but knocking a cone did – and he admitted that he didn’t realise that there had been a penalty until informed by his navigator Emma Olsson.  Although he was 2.84 seconds faster than Bram, it wasn’t enough to claw back the four seconds and he slid into second on 252.69.

“I only came here for one goal which was to win.  Yesterday was a good start, although I had an unlucky knockdown but today, the horses went double clear. The pressure between me and Boyd has been going on all season and we are pushing each other to the next level every time, and I think we saw one of the best finals in many years.  This is what our sport is about!

For me it is a bonus that my father is on the podium too, like last year.  And my sisters are a crucial part of the team too, so it all stays in the family, which makes victories like this more special and the journey home even better.” – Bram Chardon (NED)

Ijsbrand praised the quality of Johan Jacob’s (NED) course which combined technical lines, several route options and smooth, faster sections.   He also saluted the venue and organisers, the atmosphere and the high level of Driving, then added, “But the most important thing is that Bram has won!”  

Boyd was gracious in defeat and credited his horses for their consistency during the series, which began with his victory in Lyon (FRA), saying, “We put the pedal to the metal and we nearly got the ball back!  My team were super and I am really pleased with my horses today.” 

In another close contest, Koos de Ronde (NED) just missed out on a drive-off place by 0.28 to finish his final in fourth place (142.63).  Dries Degrieck (BEL) couldn’t match his Leipzig (GER) form but was only 1.35 behind Koos to end fifth (143.98).  Despite an improved round on yesterday, Germany’s Michael Brauchle was further away on 163.89 for sixth and Benjamin Aillaud ended on 168.54.

It was the 10th time that the FEI Driving World Cup™ final has been held in Bordeaux since the series began in 2001.  Bram won his first indoor championship here in 2019 and his next in Leipzig in 2022.  The cat and mouse trading of titles between Boyd and Bram swung in the Dutchman’s favour this year, but they both had to raise their game to ensure that they stayed ahead of their compatriots, who are closer than ever to victory.  But for now, it is Bram who was crowned the new FEI Driving World Cup™ winner.

Results HERE

In the dramatic penultimate leg of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ 2023/2024 Western European League in Bordeaux (FRA) tonight, Swiss superstar Steve Guerdat steered his own exciting mare Is-Minka into pole position with a brilliant jump-off performance.

The three-time FEI Jumping World Cup™ champion and the 11-year-old grey have been knocking on the door in recent months, and it seemed only a matter of time before they put it all together and came up with a big result.

Tonight was the night, and the 2012 individual Olympic gold medallist, whose consistency in the World Cup series is second to none, said “it’s so exciting, I’m really, really happy! We had a bit of bad luck with a lot of four faults in our first 5-Star Grand Prix, but today she showed what she’s capable of and I think it’s only the beginning of a very successful story with her!”

The French crowd had plenty to cheer about when their own young star, 22-year-old Jeanne Sadran, slotted into second with Dexter de Kerglenn ahead of Great Britain’s Harry Charles and Sherlock in third. Fourth spot went to Belgium’s Pieter Devos with Casual DV Z, while home hero Roger Yves Bost slotted into fifth with Ballerine du Vilpion and Israel’s Isabella Russekoff and C Vier 2 finished last of the six who qualified for the jump-off.

No easy day

This was no easy day at the office, French course designer Jean-Francois Morand setting them a 14-fence first-round track that championship veteran Guerdat described as “pretty tough - it started with two big jumps and that really backed up the horses, and then the triple combination (fence 6) was very difficult but she (Is-Minka) is a very good combination jumper and she showed that today”. 

Competition pathfinder, Denmark’s Zascha Nygaard Lill, had a refusal there with Conterno-PS who also took a dislike to the following wall of very colourful planks for elimination. Jumped off a left-hand turn so horses only had sight of it from a couple of strides away, this fence, to the amazement of the crowd, also put paid to the chances of Frenchman Edward Levy (Eify du Pic) and world number one Henrik von Eckermann from Sweden (Calizi) when both horses jammed on the brakes and dislodged their riders to bring the elimination quota to three. 

The back bar of the oxer at fence 10 also claimed multiple victims, and with five retirements there were just 27 finishers from the 36 starters, but the second-round jump-off against the clock kept the 6,000 spectators on the edges of their seats.

Gauntlet

Guerdat and Is-Minka threw down the gauntlet with a fast, smooth pathfinding round that stopped the clock on 40.34 seconds and it was up to the rest to better that.

In her first-ever World Cup jump-off Russekoff was clear to the very last with the wonderful C Vier 2 who carried Germany’s David Will to European team silver in 2021 and who joined the Florida-based Israeli rider’s string 12 months ago. 

Then Bost set the home crowd alight with a great clear that just wasn’t quite quick enough when the clock showed 44.39 seconds, and although Charles shaved almost two seconds off that Guerdat was still well out in front with two left to go. 

The French had another reason to get excited when Sadran rode into the electrified Bordeaux ring, producing a fabulous run from the 11-year-old stallion Dexter whose partnership with his 22-year-old rider is a joy to behold. The crowd gave the pair a standing ovation even though they crossed the line 1.41 seconds slower than the Swiss rider’s target time to squeeze ahead of Charles into second place, because they knew they’d witnessed something special. Last to go, Devos was clear but a little cautious with his nine-year-old home-bred mare Casual DV Z to push Bost down to fourth. 

For Guerdat there was the satisfaction of victory and for runner-up Sadran, who has enjoyed a tremendous winter season with Dexter, there was affirmation of their place amongst the stars. For third-placed Charles there was a sense of the cementing of his partnership with Sherlock who won the seventh leg of the Western European League at La Coruna (ESP) in December but who looked even more solid today in both rounds.

Relentless

Charles, who described the first round track as “relentless”, said he was very happy with Sherlock. 

“He should have been clear in the World Cup last week in Amsterdam, just had a small mistake at the last jump, but I’m happy to have put it right this week and I’m very proud of him. He’s still very new at this level and he felt pretty at ease around there so I have good hopes for the future”, he pointed out. 

He said his third-place finish was “one better than last year, we were fourth here last year so if I keep coming for the next two years I could be at the top sometime soon!”

He stuck to his plan in the jump-off. “I saw Steve and he made it look a lot easier than it was. I thought maybe I could get him but then I realised quickly after the first three jumps I don’t think I’m actually close so just try to leave the jumps up. He (Sherlock) needs another few rounds at this height going at that speed to really get it. But I couldn’t have asked for more, he did everything I asked him so I’m very happy and very proud of him”, the British rider said.

Quick

Talking about her jump-off ride Sadran said, ‘I knew I was quick but not to touch Steve. My horse needs to learn to turn a little bit more smooth - but next time!” 

Jumping in front of her home crowd was a real treat. “It’s something special, especially because I need to pick up points for the Final and normally after today I will qualify for the Final in Riyadh and it’s super-nice for me tonight!” she pointed out. 

And asked if she was proud of what she achieved she replied, “I’m more proud of my horse because he’s 11 years old and still young but he is a genius for sure! He can do everything, he is so confident, and today he proved that he is one of the best horses in the world for sure!”

Meanwhile Guerdat, who also won in Bordeaux four years ago riding Victorio des Frotard, said “the first time I won the World Cup here felt unbelievable and this is the second time. I’m so proud of my mare and my whole team and it’s a very nice day to remember!”

Asked if he is excited about going to the Final in April he replied “Yes! But right now I just want to enjoy this victory especially for my mare. She should have left me last year after she won a Grand Prix, but thanks to my father-in-law he secured her for me so she could stay and go the whole way with me”. 

He has an incredible record at the World Cup Final, with 12 top-10 places along with his three wins. Today’s result has moved him up to fifth place on the league leaderboard behind fourth-place Kevin Staut from France, Britain’s Ben Maher and Harry Charles in third and second and Sweden’s Henrik von Eckermann who remains in pole position ahead of the defence of the title he won with King Edward in 2023.

The 14th and final leg of the Western European League will take place in Gothenburg, Sweden in three weeks’ time, so don’t miss a hoofbeat….

Result

Standings

The times were tight, and the margins were miniscule, as two-time FEI Driving World Cup™ champion Bram Chardon (NED) set out on his bid for another title to edge into first on an exciting opening night in Bordeaux (FRA).  The three Dutch Drivers in the lineup followed a similar tactic and were very quick over the course, completing it in under 140 seconds.  All had penalties to add, but Bram had done enough to topple defending champion Boyd Exell (AUS) from the top spot – by only 1.04!

The running order was set by the series rankings after the eight qualifying legs, which stared in Lyon (FRA) in early November.  Ranked second, Bram was the penultimate athlete to enter the buzzing arena in the vast Parc des Expositions complex, with a near capacity crowd of 8,000.  Tackling Johan Jacob’s (NED) technical course, which had numerous options for routes through the obstacles and cones, Bram’s agile grey horses pooled their power to produce the fastest round of the night in 137.71 seconds.  An early ball roll meant four was added to his time, but the total of 141.71 kept Bram in front and gives him the psychological advantage going into the all-important title-deciding competition on Sunday afternoon.

As the top ranked Driver, Boyd was the last to enter the arena and bore the weight of expectation after his emphatic five victories during the series.  Although he was clear, his time was slower than the Dutch.  It was enough to put him in front of a delighted Koos de Ronde (NED) – but only by 0.14.  Another previous champion, Koos was the second Driver to start, and he added an early ball.  But his long striding horses kept flowing forward, as they have done throughout the series, and they produced a time that was only 1.18 slower than Bram’s.

Keeping the competition tantalizingly close, Dries Degrieck (BEL), who won his first FEI Driving World Cup™ event at the last leg in Leipzig (GER), drove a consistent clear to end on his time of 143.77, a mere 0.88 behind Koos.  Buoyed by his recent form, Dries may well ask his willing horses for even more tomorrow as he proved he can beat the best when it really counts.

As the third ranked Driver, Dutch legend Ijsbrand Chardon (NED) drove just before his son and was also fast, his horses producing a time of 139.89.  But there was eight to add, so his total of 147.89 pushed him into fifth.

Michael Brauchle (GER), who qualified on equal points to Dries, set out with his customary speedy intent but had to check his horses before the first marathon style obstacle, which stalled the rhythm, and cost him valuable seconds.  Two late balls on the course added eight to his time and he was sixth on 151.62.  The host nation’s wild card, Benjamin Aillaud (FRA), was the opening Driver and added eight penalties to his time to end on 166.63. 

As there is only one round in the first competition at a Final, the Drivers did not compete again and the top three re-entered the arena for the prize giving.  The positions from tonight set the running order for Sunday and also influence the scores because 50% of the difference between the first place and those behind is carried over.  After the first round on Sunday there will be a drive-off for the fastest three competitors, then the new FEI Driving World Cup™ winner will be crowned.

With such a close opening competition, it’s all to play for and the finale promises to be an exciting climax to a hard-fought series between the top Drivers.  Tune into FEI TV for live coverage.

For further information - FEI Driving World Cup™ - Season 2022-2023

With the inaugural season of the Longines League of Nations™ kicking off this month, over the past few weeks we've been taking a closer look at the 10 nations that have qualified to compete and be the first to hoist the new trophy at the Final in Barcelona.

Today, we look at France...

France has a rich equestrian history through the centuries, with a love affair that has produced some of the world’s greatest horses and riders. Two-time Olympic team gold medallists and 3-time winners of FEI Jumping World Championships and later the FEI World Equestrian Games™, the French are always formidable competitors, and they have an intimidating support structure taking them into a big competition year. 

Henk Nooren brings some 5 decades of experience to his role as chef d’equipe for the French team, becoming one of the most sought-after coaches in the sport and has not only helmed the French to success, but also the Dutch, Italians and Swiss. 

Adding to the tour-de-force that is French Jumping is Sophie Dubourg, national Technical Director of the French Equestrian Federation since 2013, the first woman to hold this position. Supporting high performance competitors across equestrian disciplines, it is in this capacity that she led the French Olympic teams which won medals in Jumping and Eventing at the Rio Olympic Games in 2016, and also second place at the FEI Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup™ Final in 2022. Doubling focus between the upcoming Longines League of Nations™ whilst preparing for Paris 2024 Olympic Games, she reiterates France’s delight to be part of this new league: 

"The FEI Nations Cup™ has always had a very special meaning, and we are proud to participate amongst the best athletes and equestrian nations on the international circuit"

Being part of this new series also confirms the excellent work and continued dedication throughout the year of our athletes, their horses, their team, the owners, sponsors and all the staff.”

We speak to Dubourg about the goals for the French team as we approach the first leg. 

In a global series like the Longines League of Nations™, how does your team plan to collaborate with other participating nations, fostering unity and mutual respect in the equestrian community?

"This series is about competing for our nation at the highest level of the sport, and while we enjoy the camaraderie with all the participating nations, it is also vital to concentrate on achieving the best results possible. Equestrian sport has evolved a great deal over the years; not only with skills, facilities and equipment, but notably the mentality, not only of the riders, but the community, and the values of horsemanship.

Our sport captivates audiences around the world and for us the values of the sport are paramount. While winning is important, we also align with our collaborating nations and learn from the challenges and the pressures faced in such a high performance sport. 

There is an honour and respect when competing for your nation, which includes the mutual respect of our counterparts from all the participating nations in this series. The important thing is we learn from each other, helping us improve our skills and knowledge every time we compete, and we believe that this series gives us the platform to promote these shared values, which are essential for future generations watching the sport".

As France competes on a global stage, how do you plan to use this opportunity to attract equestrian tourists and enthusiasts to experience the beauty of French equestrian events, especially with the Olympic Games being hosted in Paris this year?

"Although France is not hosting a qualifier, being seen on a global scale as we participate in other countries provides great exposure to the sport for our nation. We know that all eyes are on France as we approach the Paris Olympic & Paralympic Games, and this global series puts us in the spotlight to capture the attention of new and existing equestrian fans worldwide. 

For those new to equestrian sport, we believe this series will be much clearer and easier to understand, which will be advantageous in promoting the series to the media, encouraging them to write about the sport and keep the momentum to follow the series right through to the Final.

Promotion of the series on all platforms including our social media channels will also amplify the widespread exposure to a larger audience, showcasing the talent of our nation, our horse & rider combinations and the exceptional competition. We believe this will not only boost the interest of the younger generations to follow the sport as fans, but also inspire them to achieve and reach their goals of participating at such a high performance level of the sport".

High performance participation in a top series is inspiring for development. How do you plan to capitalise on this series to engage with and inspire the youth of France, creating a new generation of equestrian enthusiasts?

"Competing in the prestigious Longines League of Nations™ series is undoubtedly of great importance for France, and we are delighted to be part of it, not only for our international riders competing at this high level, but also as an encouragement for the future generations of the sport. Whether competing on the global stage or at the local pony club, the values of the sport are the same: horsemanship, discipline, fairness, a level playing field,  friendship, honesty and achievement - all in equal measure.

For any athlete, being able to defend their country's colours is an honour. The Longines League of Nations™ series gives us the chance to broaden the development of our athletes and grow our country's talent pool of horse and rider combinations. Competing on a global scale has a different excitement about it and supporting young talent in a structural way, enriching their knowledge and skills is crucial for the development of any sport. Discovering new talent and - through promoting the Longines League of Nations™ series - encouraging them to consider competing at the highest level, is the ideal situation to capture the hearts of a new generation of riders, and show them that through hard work and dedication, their goals are attainable. Without a doubt, the series final in Barcelona will be one of the highlights on the international equestrian calendar in 2024, not only for our competing athletes and support teams, owners, sponsors and staff, but for budding equestrian enthusiasts".

Dubourg cements the sentiments of the top ten teams as they embark on this league, saying; “Together with the FEI we hope that this inaugural Longines League of Nations™ will gain as much exposure as possible with the general public…as we all work together, we hope to achieve the best results. As first seasons go, we hope it’s a good one!”

Is it going to be the year of the French? Follow the thrills and spills on FEI.tv as the first leg kicks off on 11 February in Abu Dhabi.

Until the last leg of the series, it looked like the contest for the next FEI Driving World Cup™ title would be between Boyd Exell (AUS) and Bram Chardon (NED). But after his first win in Leipzig (GER), Belgium’s Dries Degrieck has disrupted the old order and put himself into serious contention.  

As defending champion and holder of an unprecedented ten FEI Driving World Cup™ titles, Boyd enters the final as the number one ranked Driver on a maximum 30 points.  Before the first event in Lyon (FRA), he predicted that this would be a particularly close series – which is true, despite his dominance; from seven legs, he has won competition two five times.  Add in another five competition one wins, and it is the Australian national anthem which has been most played during the award ceremonies.  

As the second ranked driver on 27 points, two-time champion Bram won the fourth and fifth legs in Stockholm (SWE) and Geneva (SUI). Against the clock, his horses have been consistently fast and when the balls stay in place, they are hard to beat.  He and Boyd were first pitted against each other at the second leg in Maastricht (NED) when they were both wild cards, so ineligible for ranking points. 

Bram started out in front but an extra loop in the second drive-off meant he slipped to third and Boyd took the win.  Next in Stockholm, a mistake from Boyd in the drive-off dropped him to third while Bram won.  For their next clash after Christmas at the sixth leg in Mechelen (BEL), Boyd went clear to edge into first, and although Bram was faster on time he lost out on victory after a ball roll.

In Leipzig, the focus was fixed on the Boyd-Bram dynamic, but the event was boosted by the inclusion of all six drivers who had qualified for the final. However, the script did not play out as expected and the mind games took on a new twist. Boyd decisively won the opening competition while Bram didn’t make the drive off. The tables turned in the second competition when Boyd’s penalties put him out of drive-off contention.  

The win was Bram’s to take as his horses seemed on unbeatable form, but a costly knock meant that Dries – who had been second in the opening competition – could make his quick, clear round one that marked a historic triumph.  It was a deserving win for the talented Belgian who is only in his third FEI Driving World Cup™ series.

Competing at four qualifying events and taking no wild card tickets, Dries stated after Leipzig how proud he was of his horses.  Not only are they relatively young in age for the series where it’s often older, more experienced horses that are used, but they are Dutch Warmbloods, whereas most of the specialist indoor teams tend to favour Lipizzaners.  

Having been to many Finals and with the benefit of their wealth of experience, Dutch titans and previous champions Ijsbrand Chardon and Koos de Ronde will also be vying for podium places in Bordeaux.  Third-ranked Ijsbrand is a perennial crowd favourite wherever the venue and is revelling in his son Bram’s success while being as committed to his own Driving as ever.  He very nearly beat Boyd in London on an exciting Friday night – there was only a second between them – with Koos a close third.  

Koos has recorded some impressive times during the series with his long-striding horses.  The third leg in Stuttgart (GER), in a large arena with a galloping course, was nearly his until a slip in the water and loss of momentum dashed his hopes. 

With a tactic of wider, flowing lines through the marathon-style obstacles, Koos remains a strong challenger for the top positions and achieved a confidence-boosting third in Leipzig against strong competition.
Germany’s Michael Brauchle is a Driver that the others monitor closely because he sets some of the speediest times.  Always pushing for the most economic lines with his keen horses, when his rounds are free of mistakes, he is another who’s a contender for a podium finish.  His highest placings were seconds in Maastricht and Stockholm.  

Joining the starters in Bordeaux is the host nation’s wild card entry, Benjamin Aillaud (FRA) who also competed at the first leg in Lyon (FRA) in early November. The course will be built by Johan Jacobs (NED), who designed the Stockholm, Geneva and Mechelen courses.  Returning as president of the ground jury is Anne-Marie Turbé (FRA), joined by Camille Eslan (FRA) as chief steward.
The Driving starts late on Saturday night and concludes on Sunday afternoon. 

There is no drive-off after the first competition, but the positions set the running order for the following day.  In the second competition, only the top three Drivers go into the drive-off and their scores from the previous rounds count towards the overall totals.  Another difference between the Final and the qualifying legs is the accumulative scoring system whereby 50% of the difference between the Drivers and the leading score is carried over to the next competition. 

After Leipzig, the title race is tighter than it has been for a long time but on balance, Boyd remains the favourite.  Despite the recent result, he has shown throughout his career how defiantly he can bounce back and go on to take the big wins.  Bram has also set his sights on his third FEI Driving World Cup™ title, helped by having one of the most cohesive teams of horses on the circuit.  

But neither can be complacent because this time, there’s a high chance there will be a new name on the trophy.

With the inaugural season of the Longines League of Nations™ kicking off on Feb 11, over the next few days we will continue to take a closer look at the 10 nations that have qualified to compete and be the first to hoist the new trophy at the Final in Barcelona.

Today, we take a look at Germany...

Considered by many as one of the most successful equestrian nations, Germany consistently delivers thrilling performances and remains a force to be reckoned with. 

“By introducing the Longines League of Nations™, the National Federations and our teams have the chance to compete in a truly worldwide series. This is an exciting opportunity and we are looking forward to the League beginning,” says the German Federation’s general secretary, Soenke Lauterbach on their inclusion in the League. 

Germany's stellar track record certainly supports the enthusiasm of their international fans. As well as being the current winners of the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup™ Final 2023, they also took team Jumping golds no fewer than 3 times at the FEI World Equestrian Games™ and FEI Jumping World Championship - standing shoulder-to-shoulder with only France in holding this prestigious accolade. Adding to their glory, Germany are the only nation to become eight-time Team Olympic Champions, something they will be mindful of as Paris 2024 approaches this year.

 

"True horsemanship is an essential element for true excellence."

Otto Becker (GER)

Chef d’equipe and the German national coach since 2009 - not to mention a former German and Olympic champion - Otto Becker shares insights into what the Longines League of Nations™ means for Germany and the global jumping community.

As an established powerhouse in various sports, how do you anticipate the Longines League of Nations™ contributing to Germany maintaining its reputation as a leading nation in equestrian sports?

“It is an achievement already to be part of the Longines League of Nations™, and we feel that all ten nations enjoy and appreciate this privilege. Having said that, it is hard work, day-in and day-out for our riders, grooms and trainers to be successful and stay high on the rankings. Our teams will all do their best to perform well and shine on the Longines League of Nations™ stage - competition has become very, very tight over the years, so it is not taken for granted to be successful during the series. But – parallel to the Olympic Games – we consider the Longines League of Nations™ as the most prestigious series of 2024”.

The series puts our sport under a global spotlight. How do you plan to use this exposure to encourage and support the development of young German talents, ensuring a pipeline of skilled athletes for the future?

“Young athletes need orientation and goals to strive for. To dream of being part of a . . . national team is such a goal, especially when the nation performs well and secures national pride. Providing young athletes opportunities throughout their career is key to developing their skills consistently and thoroughly. This begins at youth level and continues throughout their whole career.”

Germany excels in multiple equestrian disciplines with many Jumping athletes having a diverse and versatile foundation. How do you feel this multidisciplinary expertise helps to give you an edge in the Longines League of Nations™?

“One core element of the famous German Principles of Riding is this diverse foundation. Our riders do not only learn Dressage or Jumping; the aim is that riders learn and understand that this is all connected and you cannot do one proficiently without the other. You become a better Jumping athlete when you can ride Dressage – and when you understand why, this helps your horse and yourself to jump better. 

So, this core element has always been one of our strengths and continues to show its value. Additionally, the entire management of the horse must be very well thought-out and we feel strongly about optimising this. True horsemanship is an essential element for true excellence.”

 Be sure to catch all the action on FEI TV as the series kicks off in Abu Dhabi on 11 February.

Throwing down another extraordinary performance, Ireland’s Daniel Coyle and the 14-year-old super-mare, Legacy, stormed to victory for the second time in a week at the twelfth leg of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ 2023/2024 Western European League in Amsterdam, The Netherlands today.

Last Sunday the pair topped the line-up in Leipzig, Germany by a winning margin of almost half a second. This evening they pinned Dutch stars Willem Greve and Highway TN NOP into runner-up spot by almost three full seconds in an electrifying seven-way jump-off that had the packed stadium of 6,000 spectators on the very edges of their seats.

The crowd jumped to their feet with joy when, third-last to go, Greve and his mighty 12-year-old stallion - one of three home starters through to the timed round - raced into the lead when breaking the beam in 38.33 seconds. 

Their joy was short-lived however when Coyle produced a spectacular run that stopped the clock on 35.45 seconds which was never going to be beaten. 

Asked how he will celebrate his incredible two-in-a-row World Cup successes this evening the Irishman replied,  “I’ve been doing ‘dry’ January, I do it every year, but Ariel (Grange, Legacy’s co-owner) said go and have a few beers, so I had three after last Sunday’s win. I think we might have to have a few more tonight!”

Set the target

Greve’s compatriot, Jur Vrieling, set the target when pathfinder in the second round with the 12-year-old mare Griffin van de Heffinck who jumped clear in 40.40 seconds.

The second of the Dutch contenders, Marc Houtzager with Sterrehof’s Dante, was looking competitive until it all went wrong at the second of the remaining two elements of the triple combination, now three fences from home. And when Belgium’s Pieter Clemens and Emmerton lowered the previous vertical, and despite a nice clear from fellow-Belgian Gilles Thomas with Luna van het Dennehof who crossed the line in 41.84 seconds, it was Vrieling who was still at the head of affairs with three left to go against the clock.

Greve took command with a brilliant run from the powerful Highway who broke the beam 38.33 seconds, and the stallion shook his head proudly as his rider saluted the appreciative crowd. But from the moment Coyle and Legacy took flight over the first fence it was clear something special was about to happen.

Curling over that opening vertical to take the shortest line to the following oxer, the pair simply swallowed up all the distances, and with the smoothest turn to the penultimate vertical and a heart-stopping race down to the final oxer they stopped the clock in 35.45 seconds to put the result beyond any doubt, Ireland’s Denis Lynch and Vistogrand bringing the action to a close with two fences on the floor to finish seventh at the end of the day.

Analysing his own performance, Greve said, “it was a real fast jump-off and my turn into the combination wasn’t as smooth as Daniel’s, he took more risk and I think I had two strides more, but for the rest I’m so happy for my horse! He gave everything like he always does, and as for this crowd in Amsterdam - I finished second but they gave me the feeling that I won! We have seen great sport and the spectators were unbelievable, so I had a super show and I think we have a great winner!”, said the man who enjoyed a wonderful week at Jumping Amsterdam.

Reflected

Coyle reflected on where all this recent success has come from. Commitment and determination have played a major role from an early age.

“My brother Jordan won everything in ponies and I didn’t win so much, or it seemed like that because he was winning everything! In any sport I suppose you just get stuck in and get on with it or you get left behind and give up. Thankfully it went the right way for me in the end!”, he said this evening. 

So what about his ability to thrive under pressure in a jump-off? 

“I think it goes back to riding those ponies at home in Ireland where it’s very competitive. I rode with my brothers and everybody else, even the likes of Richard Howley who now also has won a few World Cups. We all grew up on ponies and I was always chasing those guys, But it’s good to see now I can have some revenge, and I guess I also had some great horses in my career in the smaller divisions that have taught me how to do jump-offs. In the end if being competitive in a jump-off is all I can give back to Legacy then I’m happy enough with that!”, he said.

Today’s win was also particularly satisfying because Greve beat the Irishman in the Grand Prix at Rotterdam. “Willem is always very fast and I didn’t want to get beaten by him again!”

He wasn’t sure of the result until the very end however. “I was going through the finish still looking at the clock hoping I was fast enough, I didn’t know if I was slow or fast or what was the difference but anyway I was on the right side of it and it’s much better to win by three seconds than three-hundredths!”, he pointed out.

Sensitivity

For Coyle this whole experience with Legacy, called “Dolly” by her owner Ariel Grange of Lothlorien Farms in Toronto, Canada, is tinged with an extra level of sensitivity. Because when he left Ireland to ride for fellow-Irishman Conor Swail and for Ariel’s mother, the late Susan Grange, in early 2016 he could never have known how his career would play out. 

“Before Sue died (in October 2017) Ariel only had a few younger horses and wasn’t so involved, so I didn’t know if she was going to step up and do what she has done”, Coyle explained this evening. Legacy is named in Susan’s memory, and while the Irishman’s partnership with Ariel has gone from strength to strength, his relationship with the mare has also grown into something pretty unique during their seven years together. Although it hasn’t always been plain sailing.

“For years there we weren’t really on the same page. She’d jump one fence very high and the next fence I’d ask her to jump, like a plank or something delicate, she’d knock it down and I’d be very confused as to why. But I feel now we are very much on the same page, we have a real understanding”, he explained. 

Results have proven that beyond doubt, and the Irish rider, whose World Cup points are accumulated on the North American League table, has now taken over the lead by a long distance ahead of the Longines 2024 Final in Riyadh (KSA) in April.

Asked about his plans for Legacy, he said this evening, “she goes back now to Ariel’s new farm in Orlando, Florida (USA) and she will have a few weeks off and then probably the 5* Nations Cup in Ocala will be her next big event.

“We’ve a huge year ahead with the World Cup Final and the Olympics, and for sure we’ll be looking at both with her but we have to have a conversation about it all. The main thing is to get her to the Olympic Games like she is right now and to try and win a medal! She’s in the prime of her life, she’s got better, she’s got older, and maybe so have I, so I’m delighted!”, Coyle said.

Meanwhile, with just two legs of the Western European League left to run, the hunt for those last-minute qualifying points will be more intense than ever going into the next round in Bordeaux (FRA) next Sunday and on to the final qualifier in Gothenburg (SWE) at the end of February.

So don’t miss a hoofbeat….

Result 

Standings 

In 2022, Jose Alberto Martinez Vazquez (MEX) and Quinley finished second in the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Puebla (MEX). Two years later, the pair moved up that final step on the podium, recording the first World Cup victory of their respective careers Saturday at the Quintas Ecuestres venue.

The duo bested a three-horse jump-off, with the historic Popocatépetl volcano in view. Simon Salame Farca (MEX) and So Nice finished second, with Misti Cassar (USA) third.

"[Quinley] means everything to me. I've never had a horse like him before." 

Jose Alberto Martinez Vazquez (MEX)

The only female FEI Level 4 Course Designer in the world, Marina Azevedo (BRA) set a stiff challenge for the field of 25 athletes that came forward, with three fences reaching the maximum height of 1.60m. One of those fences was a delicate plank, which fell throughout the afternoon. 

Just three combinations were able to produce a clear round, which made for a thrilling jump-off, filled with surprises. Cassar was first to jump with Mylord Cornet, her partner from the 2022 World Cup Finals in Leipzig (GER). 

The pair powered down the first line with confidence, but when Cassar took a risk with a tight turn back to the third fence, it caught her mount by surprise, and the two became separated, resulting in elimination. Horse and rider left the arena safely, assured a podium finish.

"Going first, you just have to take a shot and go for it, and I think it really was just pilot error," Cassar explained. "I turned too tight."

Salame took his turn next, with the intention of producing a more conservative clear. That plan did not come to fruition, as the pair pulled a rail in the combination, but they still took over the lead on four faults in 53.26 seconds.

That left only Martinez to jump. Without taking too much risk, he and Quinley pulled ahead at the third fence, executing a beautifully agile turn, and continued to draw off. Miscommunication resulted in the final fence falling, but the duo was still plenty quick enough to secure the victory. The winning time was 48.44 seconds. 

"I thought I could go a little bit faster and still [win with] a rail," Martinez detailed. "At the end, I was thinking about the time. Going to the last fence, you're always thinking, 'Is this enough?' I had a bit of a miscommunication, but Quinley still went over [the jump]. I'm thankful."

Martinez, who rides as an amateur, acquired Quinley when the Holsteiner gelding was just four years old. Producing him up the levels, the pair represented their country at the 2022 FEI World Jumping Championships (DEN) and now boast seven international victories on their record. 

"It was kind of lucky how he came into the family, and we've now had 11 years with him. We know each other perfectly. That's what brings us together to get good results."

Jose Alberto Martinez Vazquez (MEX)

Daniel Bluman (ISR) and Daniel Coyle (IRL) each have 43 points, but Bluman leads the NAL standings thanks to his win in Toronto (CAN). Shane Sweetnam (IRL) sits third with 41 points.

The 2023-2024 North American League season concludes in Ocala (USA) on 17 March 2024.

Full Results

Standings

For the second time this season Great Britain’s Charlotte Fry and Everdale left the opposition in their wake at the eighth leg of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ 2023/2024 Western European League in Amsterdam (NED) today.

In yesterday’s Grand Prix they pinned Germany’s Isabell Werth and DSP Quantaz into second place and longtime league-leader Sweden’s Patrik Kittel into third with Touchdown. Today they did it all again, but this time with a wider winning margin that left them well clear of the rest of the field.

Fry has now moved comfortably into third place on the Western European League table from which the top nine will qualify for the Final in Riyadh (KSA) in April. 

“I’m still taking it in I guess, to win here in Amsterdam is kind of a dream - especially with such a competitive field of horses and riders! Everdale has been feeling so good the last two days and I’ve had two really great rides so I couldn’t really ask for more!”, she said.

Field

The 15-strong starting field was filled with exciting talent from first to last, and judges Isobel Wessels (GBR), Patricia Wolters (NED), Mariette Sanders-van Gansewinkel (NED), Raphael Saleh (FRA) and Maria Colliander (FIN) had the Dutch partnership of Marieke van der Putten and the 12-year-old Totilas gelding Torveslettens Titanium RS2 NOP out in front at the halfway stage on a score of 79.725.

Second to go after the interval however, Belgium’s Flore de Winne and Flynn FRH took the lead when posting 80.315. This pair have been showing great promise this season, de Winne’s quiet balance helping the 10-year-old stallion sparkle as he continues to learn his trade while presenting a pleasing picture. 

Next in however, multiple gold medallist Werth opened up the whole competition with big marks from the outset with Quantaz whose score of 86.455 was never going to be easy to overtake. The enthusiastic crowd loved the German star’s trademark punchy performance and rose to their feet in appreciation as the five-time FEI Dressage World Cup™ title-winner pranced out of the arena at the end of her test with a big smile and a wave.

Fry followed with an imperfect first halt, but the scores started piling up for piaffe/passage and rock-solid flying changes, and boosted by four 10’s for Choreography and five more for Music and Interpretation they pushed the new target score up to 88.180 which proved impossible to better. 

Sweden’s Kittel posted 84.905 for third place despite a muddled moment when he dropped his reins early in the test, and when the Danish duo of Nanna Skodborg Merrald with Blue Hors Don Olymbrio and Carina Cassøe Krüth with Heiline’s Danciera posted 84.030 and 82.905 they slotted into fourth and fifth places respectively, Belgium’s de Winne sealing sixth spot at the end of the day.

Consistent

Tokyo 2020 Olympic partners, Fry and Everdale, have been enjoying a really consistent run of form having also won the sixth leg of the Western European League in Mechelen (BEL) in December, just two weeks after finishing second in London (GBR). Today’s result has firmly sealed a qualifying spot for the Dutch-based Briton at the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final 2024 in Riyadh (KSA) in April, but with the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on the horizon there is no perfect plan in place just yet.

“Everdale is going to have a small break now. There are a lot of stallion shows coming up and then hopefully we will go to Den Bosch (s’Hertogenbosch NED) and then do the outdoor season with Glamourdale so we will see how it all works out”, said the rider who with her other superstar stallion, Glamourdale, took double-gold at the FEI Dressage World Championship in 2022.

At the post competition press conference there was much talk about the forthcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games, and asked which horse she intends to bring Fry wouldn’t commit herself - “I’m very lucky to have two really top horses at the moment so we will see!”, she replied.

Meanwhile when asked if she expects to be in Paris, Werth modestly replied, “it’s not so easy to get in a team, especially in Germany or Great Britain. There are only three to go and I will try my best and we will see!”

Spoiled for choice

Kittel, who has long led the Western European League standings, admits he is spoiled for choice when it comes to horses for both the World Cup Final and the Paris Games.  

“I’m lucky because I have a couple of horses in the World Cup and I can do more shows without having to ride so much on each horse which is very good. For me that’s like a big bonus at the moment”, he explained. But he takes nothing for granted.

Where Paris is concerned he said “I think for every rider the Olympic Games is something we always dream of but it’s always in the stars. The day you are there and you’ve done your test and you say thank you to the judges - that’s the day you know you’ve ridden in an Olympics!”, he pointed out.

The Western European League now moves on to the final three stages at Neumünster (GER) in three weeks time, Gothenburg (SWE) at the end of February and ’s-Hertogenbosch (NED) in early March.

Don’t miss a hoofbeat….

Result

Standings

With the inaugural season of the Longines League of Nations™ kicking off in February, over the next few weeks we will take a closer look at the 10 nations that have qualified to compete and be the first to hoist the new trophy at the Final in Barcelona.

Today, we look at Switzerland...

Jumping is a widespread discipline in Switzerland, with around 340 national and a dozen international events hosted every year. This popularity is undoubtedly assisted by the the success of Swiss Jumping athletes, which has seen them triumphing as winners of the Longines FEI European Championships at Riesenbeck (GER) in 2021, as well as being 3-time Team Olympic medallists. 

These successes inspire both national pride and aspirations for equestrians, coupled with the Swiss Federation’s ethos that optimal conditions enable great success. It is felt that the basis for later victories is laid with solid basic training and level-appropriate promotion of young talent - a task that rests on the capable shoulders of their new chef d’equipe, previous Dutch team assistant Peter Van Der Waaij. 

"Our fans will unite together and we will ask anyone to wear the Swiss red colour with pride!"

Peter Van Der Waaij(SUI)

Van Der Waaij, who took over from Michel Sorg in January, does so with both enthusiasm and a deep sense of responsibility for the role, saying; “The new format with four riders in the first round and three riders in the second round adds an extra challenge as well, and definitely does not make it easier for a chef d’equipe! It could lead to some difficult decisions and it is hard to predict the outcome; we have seen over the years many times that the result in the first round is no guarantee for the second round. It is an interesting new aspect to the FEI Nations Cup format, and fans will find it very exciting to see if their nation can climb the ranks.”

We ask him what the Longines League of Nations ™ means to competitors, the sport, and the fans. 

Switzerland is renowned for precision and craftsmanship. How do you see the Longines League of Nations™ as an opportunity to highlight the Swiss commitment to excellence and attention to detail in equestrian sports?

"The Swiss team is always trying to excel in FEI Nations Cups and the newly launched Longines League of Nations™ will be one of the highlights of the season. Since the competition of the world’s best countries is of such a high level, the Swiss team will have to focus on excellence and detail even more for these shows. The Swiss riders have always fully prioritised FEI Nations Cups, and will continue to do so with the Longines League of Nations™".

In your opinion, what does the establishment of the Longines League of Nations™ mean for the sport of Jumping?

"The Longines League of Nations™ will take the sport globally to another level, since the world’s leading countries will compete against each other in three different continents. In this way, a world-wide crowd can be reached and Jumping fans from all ten competing countries and more will be thrilled to follow the competitions. For our team it will be a very exciting team since our home show St. Gallen will be part of the series and will even get more attention than it normally gets, which will be thrilling!"

Switzerland has a close-knit equestrian community. How do you plan to engage fans and younger equestrians into the excitement of the Longines League of Nations™, fostering a sense of unity and support?

"Swiss Equestrian is more than just riders – it is about family and friends and that is also how we like to approach our fans and our young equestrians. With St. Gallen as part of the series, the Swiss equestrian world is treated to another show of the very highest level with the world's very best countries competing against each other. In St. Gallen, our fans will unite together and we will ask anyone to wear the Swiss red colour with pride!"

Get ready to paint the town red for Switzerland as the league kicks off in Abu Dhabi on 11 February for the first leg of the new series. 

Be sure to catch all the action on FEI TV