The European Youth Riders Championship has long been recognized as a launching pad for young equestrians to embark on a journey towards a successful career in the world of horse riding. This prestigious championship brings together talented riders from across Europe, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. But does success at the European Championship truly serve as a ticket to a flourishing equestrian career? Furthermore, which horses have played a pivotal role in helping these young showjumping riders achieve their victories? In this article, we explore the significance of the European Youth Riders Championship as a stepping stone to success, and the remarkable equine partners who have contributed to their triumphs.
The current winners
Last weekend in Gorla Minora the new European titles were competed for. In the Young Riders categorie, it was Irishman Seamus Hughes Kennedy with his Irish Sport Horse ESI Rocky, who won gold. ESI Rocky was bred by Ennisnag Stud from Ireland and sired Stakkato Gold. However, the dam's line is entirely Belgian going back to the mare Olidame v/d Padenborre who gave the 1.60m horses Ellechin ter Doorn and Galipolli ter Doorn by breeder Paul Van Britsom. Esi Rocky was trained by Seamus Huges Kennedy himself. Just recently he rode the gelding to 3rd place in a CSI2* GP at 1.45m, and now at just 8 years old he is already winning a championship at 1.50m.
Go to complete results CH-EU-Y-S Gorla Minore
In the Juniors, Monegasque Anastasia Nielsen was strongest with Oldenburg Tailormade Contou, a gelding by Conthargos out of a Toulon dam, bred at Gestüt Lewitz/Paul Schockemöhle. The championship title is a nice crowning achievement for a strong spring with lots of top 10 places and a win in the CSIU25YJ-A GP of Compiègne (FRA).
Go to complete results CH-EU-J-S Gorla Minore
Belgium's Clementine Lux won the European title in the Children category with her horse Cash de l'Ecuyer. Earlier this year, the duo also won the Belgian Championships in the Children categorie.
Go to complete results CH-EU-Ch-S Gorla Minore
The partnership between rider and horse is at the heart of equestrian sports, and the European Championship serves as a stage for these collaborations to shine. The exceptional horses that have helped young riders secure victory at this prestigious event have proven their worth and showcased their extraordinary abilities, captivating audiences and inspiring future generations of riders.
These youth champions grew into top riders....
Diving into Hippomundo's historical results, we find many top riders who won their first championship titles in the youth classes.
Take a look at some notable past European Championship winners in the Young Riders category and find all historic results here.
| Year | Rider | Horse |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Harry Charles | Vivaldi du Dom |
| 2017 | Bryan Balsiger | Clouzot de Lassus |
| 2012 | Martin Fuchs | Principal 12 |
| 2011 | Nicola Philippaerts | HH Carlos |
| 2010 | Douglas Lindelöw | Talina |
| 1999 | Gerco Schröder | Geneve |
| 1996 | Julien Epaillard | Si Tu Viens |
| 1994 | Jeroen Dubbeldam | Killarney |
| 1985 | Patrice Delaveau | Laeken |
| 1983 | Roger-Yves Bost | Jorphee du Prieur |
| 1982 | Eric van der Vleuten | Expo Visar |
| 1981 | Jan Tops | Nargus |
Certified by Hippomundo © 2023
Take a look at some notable past European Championship winners in the Juniors category and find all historic results here.
| Year | Rider | Horse |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Gilles Thomas | Indiana v.h Kapelhof |
| 2010 | Olivier Philippaerts | Carisma |
| 2001 | Sergio Alvarez Moya | Flash de la Ramee |
| 1994 | Björn Nagel | Calando 14 |
| 1994 | Björn Nagel | Calando 14 |
| 1977 | Eric Navet | Brooklyn |
| 1975 | Nick Skelton | Brooklyn |
| 1970 | Marcus Fuchs | Famos |
Certified by Hippomundo © 2023
Achieving success at the European Youth Riders Championship is a significant milestone and an indication of potential talent and success. It opens doors and offers opportunities, but it is up to the riders themselves to forge their path, overcome obstacles, and strive for continuous growth and improvement.