The Young Riders Academy is proud to unveil the YRA Team 2025, composed of 11 exceptional young athletes selected for their talent, dedication, and potential to become the next generation of equestrian leaders. Following a rigorous two-day selection at Peelbergen Equestrian Centre, 11 riders from across Europe were chosen by a panel of esteemed experts. The selection process included riding sessions, theoretical evaluations, and interviews that explored each candidate’s knowledge of the sport and compatibility with the YRA program.
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Johanna Beckmann (Germany)
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Leon Brutsaert (Belgium)
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Francis Derwin (Ireland)
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Max Foley (Ireland)
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Anni Hjerpe (Finland)
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Laura Bearing Kjaergaard (Denmark)
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Giulia Mattioli (Italy)
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Claudia Moore (England)
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Jules Orsolini (France)
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Evelyne Putters (Belgium)
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Bart Jay Junior Vandecasteele (Belgium)
Led by Jens Fredricsson, Thierry Pomel, and Jeroen Dubbeldam, with Sven Holmberg and Valentina Ottaviani overseeing the interview sessions, the selection committee evaluated the riders not only on their technical ability but also on their mindset, values, and vision for their future in the sport.
“The expectations are elevated, however, this year, our attention is narrowed down to a specific group. We are dedicated to nurturing a fresh group of riders and individuals who are profoundly devoted to the equestrian field, valuing excellence in competition and advocating for fairness. These talents could potentially play significant roles in organizations and bodies with an equitable perspective and method,” stated Eleonora Ottaviani, President of Athenaeum and YRA, underlining the Academy’s dual focus on athletic development and education in sport governance.
