The 2025 KNHS Indoor Championships concluded with thrilling performances from young equestrian talents during the second day of competition, focused exclusively on pony dressage across several classes. The event, which took place at the Nationaal Hippisch Centrum in Ermelo, saw riders showcase their skills, aiming for coveted championship titles.
Held over the weekend of February 21 and 22, 2025, the championships featured competitions for ponies in categories B, L1, L2, and Z1. The festive atmosphere was palpable as young riders and riders alike entered the ring, eager to demonstrate their aptitude and grace. "De kop is eraf!" echoed the cheers from enthusiastic supporters as they gathered to witness the promising display of talent.
Results from the dressage pony classes were impressive, with contestants vying for the top spots. The dressage ponies participating were sponsored by well-known brands which added to the prestige of the event. For the Z1 dressage class, Roos van de Brug from Gelderland led the pack with her horse Gremashof Kazz, achieving a remarkable score of 70.000%. Isa Harleman followed closely with her pony VIP, scoring 68.048%, and Britt Severins took third with Donna B.R. from Limburg, scoring 67.714%. Each rider exhibited exceptional skills and showcased their bond with their equine partners.
Class L1 saw Maud de Jong secure victory with 70.944% on Milente’s Prime Power hailing from Noord-Brabant. Alisa van Bommel from Gelderland and Annabel Conijn from Overijssel also impressed with scores of 69.945% and 67.666% respectively, underscoring the competitiveness of the event.
Young equestrians did not stop there. The B class experienced fierce competition as Lizette van Engeland from Noord-Brabant emerged victorious with One Of The Guys Kvb, scoring 68.667%. Other notable participants included Meike Bergsma and Mirthe Bos who showcased their bundles of talent.
Class L2 also presented remarkable partnerships, with Beau van Leeuwen earning the highest score of 73.500% with Matcho ‘D’. The competitive spirit was thick as riders endeavored to display perfect harmony with their ponies.
Impressively, Fay van den Broek with Axle triumphed in Class L1 A/B, scoring 76.333%. She was closely followed by fellow competitors. The scores reveal the dedication and training put forth by these young riders.
One of the unique features of the championships is the recognition of harmonious partnerships between riders and their horse companions through the Happy Athlete awards. This award is presented to those whose connections transcended the competition. This year, Lyenna Roelofs on Choco from Limburg and Suze Meertens on Dirty Dancer NF from Drenthe received these honors, showcasing their incredible synergy.
It's clear this championship is about more than winning; it's about celebrating equestrian skills, sportsmanship, and the joy of riding. With so much young talent on display, the future of equestrian sports looks promising.
The KNHS is not done yet! The next events are scheduled for the first weekend of March, where more events will take place, encompassing diverse classes such as horses B, L1, and L2 on March 7, followed by various pony classes on March 8, as well as horses Z1 and Z2 on March 9. The excitement continues as spectators are invited to witness these incredible athletes compete once again. Remember, entry is free, making it easy to come and support your favorite young riders.