August, 2015: The Dutch were glued to the television and watched the nation’s best riders win gold at the European Championships in Aachen. Three of these national heroes made their appearance in Den Bosch, not with their Aachen-horses but showing equally fantastic talents. The audience was clearly excited to see the performance of the three ‘golden’ riders, Edward Gal, Hans Peter Minderhoud and Patrick van der Meer. 

The only missing rider was Diederik van Silfhout, who had to stay home because of the flu. This meant KWPN-stallion Cupido could not make his appearance either. Nicole Werner did the honours on behalf of Wim Ernes, our national coach that would host the show, but is temporarily on the sidelines because of hiss illness. He was still present in Den Bosch to watch the show. Nicole thanked the coach for his dedication and contribution to team gold. Hans Peter competed in the European Championships with Glock’s Johnson TN N.O.P., but now entered the arena with Dream Boy. Patrick was in Aachen with Uzzo, but the gelding has recently been sold and he finds in Zippo his new trump, with which he has secured a place in the A-kader. Edward Gal and Glock’s Voice complete the three.

After a fantastic show Siem Korver expressed his gratitude towards the breeders, owners, riders, trainers and coach Wim Ernes. At the end, Siem Korver took the opportunity to say a few words to Wim Ernes. He expressed the wish that Wim Ernes may remain to enjoy the Dutch equestrian sports for a long time. Wim received the golden pin for all his efforts and spontaneously received a one-minute standing ovation. A deserved sign of appreciation for a top coach who was part of the stallion selection committee dressage for eight years and possibly sends two KWPN-stallion to Rio that he approved as a member of this committee.