"I view JIM as a bit of a home show," says Mathijs, who operates his stable in North Limburg. "It's always super cozy and fun, especially because we run into so many familiar faces." A number of his competition horses are already en route to California, where he will be competing and coaching next week. But Mathijs still has a strong trump card up his sleeve in Maastricht. "My experienced stallion Hotspot always works tremendously hard and possesses immense quality. Last year in the Grand Prix, I had a rail down on the first obstacle. I'm aiming to do better this time."

Three Trump Cards

Leopold is competing with three horses: VDL Groep Kiara, VDL Groep Kwienbellie, and the younger VDL Groep Mistral.

Kiara was bred in-house by VDL Groep and is a daughter of Leopold's former top 1.60m horse, Issis du Marais.

"It's really wonderful to see character traits come through. Kiara is a fast mare who is always eager to jump clear, just like her mother. Unfortunately, she dealt with an injury for a while. Maastricht will be only my second time starting her back at the 1.50m level."

Leopold also holds high expectations for Kwienbellie. "I’ve been riding her for about two years now. It took us some time to get used to each other, but she is ready for the higher-level work now. I'll be starting her on Friday and in the Grand Prix."

Healthy Competition

In that Grand Prix, Leopold hopes to give his brother—who is two years younger—a run for his money.

Mathijs: "There is always healthy competition between us. We both brought good horses with us and are aiming for great rounds. Style matters, but we’re also riding to win. We like to win, and as long as it's one of the two of us, we're happy."

To which Leopold responds with a laugh: "As long as it's me, right?!"

Top Sport and Limburg Hospitality

Both riders are looking forward to performing in Maastricht. "The atmosphere is always fantastic. Not just because of the varied class schedule and wide range of participants, but also because the crowd stays enthusiastic right down to the final minute—and beyond! People from Limburg certainly know how to enjoy a good party!"

Mathijs also highlights the quality facilities provided for competitors. "The show holds a great reputation among riders and grooms. On top of that, everything is impeccably organized for the horses—and they deserve nothing but the absolute best!"