Breda, August 2016 – Tomorrow the FEI World Driving Championship Four-in-Hand will start at the Prinsenhoeve estate in Breda (NL). And with 57 competitors from 16 countries competing it is promising to become a highlight in Four-in-Hand history.
With a lot of focus and ambition the Organizing Committee of Outdoor Brabant is already glancing ahead of what the future might hold. President Cees Meeuwis has a clear view on the future of the event Outdoor Brabant and equestrian sports in West-Brabant. “If we can establish a permanent equestrian centre in Breda, this will not only be of tremendous economic value for us as an event organisation and allow us to execute our growth plans for Outdoor Brabant as a major international equestrian venue, it also enables great opportunities to many equestrians events throughout the year. We are currently working on detailed plans for a permanent place in Breda Breepark. In the nextcoming months we will reviews these plans with all stakeholders. For me personally CHIO Aachen is the example. But for now, all focus is on the upcoming World Championship!”
Dutch Chef d’Equipe Harry de Ruyter selected his golden Four-in-Hand team that won all major championships the last few years. “The horses are all in great shape and their riders in a great mindset. IJsbrand, Koos and Theo invested a lot in the selection and education of their horses and are experienced to ensure their teams are ready for the battle in Breda.” says the Dutch teamcoach.
As the host country Harry de Ruyter was allowed to select 9 riders for this championship. “Our chances on a team medal are significant but I strongly believe we have a good chance for individual medals too. Besides the dream team (IJsbrand, Koos and Theo) I have a group of very qualified riders including a lot of experience as well as young talent. With a little help from the orange crowd at the Prinsenhoeve I do expect great results!”
27-fault National Champion and multiple world champion IJsbrand Chardon visited the venue ahead of the competition and looks very pleased. “I’m impressed by the work of the organisation and course designer. The footage of the new dressage arena is looking perfect and the obstacles will be a major challenge for the riders. The course designer did a great job. Some of the new obstacles require speed where others are very technical. This combination will make the marathon not only very challenging for the riders but also exciting for the spectators.”
The last performance of reigning world champion Boyd Exell was in Aachen, last month. After that his focus was solely on the upcoming FEI World Driving CHampionship Four-in-Hand in Breda. “I will have to be in great shape and concentrate on the competition. The ambiance at the Prinsenhoeve is quite electric and Jeroen Houterman, the course designer is known for his technical obstacles in the marathon. But my focus is clear and I’m looking forward to tomorrow!”
Tomorrow on Wednesday the 31st of August the vet check is scheduled followed by the official opening ceremony.
Visit Outdoor Brabant official website
31th August 2016
