“The atmosphere and conditions here are truly excellent – it’s a pleasure to be here!” says Isabell Werth.
“We have a very diverse audience, and it’s great that the riders are so approachable. The warm-up and competition arenas are easily accessible, which makes the event compact, yet spacious.”

The eight-time Olympic champion has traveled with several horses and is also coaching riders Lisa Wernitznig and Lisa Müller. “This event gives us the opportunity to showcase both young and experienced horses, which allows us to ride a wide variety of tests,” Werth explains. “Having three horses with me is quite special — usually you only bring one or two. The range of classes and opportunities is what draws us here, and I think that’s true for the show jumpers as well.”

In the Preis der Fritz Laabs Bürgerwindparks, the CDI3* Grand Prix, Werth earned a score of 70.913% this morning with her ten-year-old gelding Special Blend by Sezuan, securing second place. She emphasizes, “The first outdoor competition of the year is always a bit of a challenge. The horses are fresh and alert, and I’m also starting some young horses here.”
Horses & Dreams also traditionally marks the start of the Nürnberger Burg-Pokal and the Louisdor-Preis dressage series, and Team Werth will be represented in both. “I really enjoy competing in those classes because I love developing young horses and guiding them to the top level of the sport. It’s important to show these horses at major competitions — and when that can happen at a big event like this, it’s ideal.”

Jeroen Dubbeldam

Jeroen Dubbeldam needs no introduction in the world of show jumping. The Dutchman is considered one of the sport’s living legends and is, after Hans Günter Winkler, only the second rider to win individual gold at the Olympic Games (2000), World Championships (2014), and European Championships (2015). Together with his partner, Belgian rider Annelies Vorsselmans, he’s a regular at Horses & Dreams. “This event has a long-standing tradition and always offers top-class conditions. The atmosphere is relaxed, and many top riders love to compete here. You can always expect top-level sport!”

Dubbeldam’s ability to consistently perform at the highest level and bring his horses to peak condition earns him the respect of fellow riders and trainers. Today, he again demonstrated his class in the Vilofoss Preis, the first qualifier for the Theurer Trucks 2GO Youngster Cup, where he rode a flawless round with the seven-year-old Oldenburg mare Kimba.
Annelies Vorsselmans also earned a ribbon aboard the KWPN gelding No Cider TD. “I’ve brought two horses owned by my student Lucas Porter, whom I’ve coached for a long time. He recently had shoulder surgery and won’t be able to ride for three to four months. So I’m competing his horses at a few shows to keep them in shape,” explains Dubbeldam. And his tip for celebrating King’s Day this Saturday?
“Wear something orange, pour a good glass of wine, and everything will be just fine!”