Rob and Daniëlle Maathuis have carefully analyzed trends in equestrian sports at regional, national, and international levels in recent years. “We have a beautiful competition venue here with excellent facilities. At the same time, we’ve observed that the environment around our core is too limited to organize a prestigious four- or five-star level event that meets the expectations of the international elite and aligns with our vision.”
A ‘Host’ to 191 Olympic Medals
“We look back with pride on the past 50 years, during which we welcomed 107 Olympic medalists to Erve Maathuis, who collectively won 191 medals: 65 gold, 62 silver, and 64 bronze. In 2019, we hosted the five-star Nations Cup jumping and dressage for the Netherlands, and last year, reigning European champion, Paris silver medalist, and current world number 2, Steve Guerdat of Switzerland, won the Grand Prix of Twente. It was a fitting conclusion to 50 years of top-level sport at Erve Maathuis.”
Plans for Area Development
The organization of CSI Twente has entered into an agreement with Holleman Ontwikkeling from Deventer. Several constructive discussions have already taken place with the municipality of Tubbergen regarding potential plans for the site. Holleman will further develop the area into residential housing in consultation with the municipality. Director Frans Holleman stated, “The area is a logical and attractive location for new housing in Geesteren. I’m pleased with the positive attitude of the municipality during our discussions. Given CSI’s history, this is a location with a unique story.”
An adjacent portion of the complex will remain operational as Stal Maathuis. Additionally, the change in direction will not affect other planned activities on the site for the time being.