Simone Pearce will be the guest rider at this year's edition of the Pavo Cup. The Australian rider will ride the top three horses in each age category and will have a decisive voice in the final rankings.

Pearce has high expectations for the Dutch Pavo Cup. “I’m looking forward to testing the best Dutch horses. Dutch breeders have made great strides in breeding dressage horses for top-level sport. For me, this is a great opportunity to really feel the best young horses.”

Fundamental Building Blocks
“Young horse competitions are, to me, fundamental building blocks in the development of young horses. Rideability and the way young horses respond to their riders are top priorities for me when judging a young horse. Because I know that’s what takes me far in international sport. Horses must be able to positively cope with what is asked of them,” Simone explains enthusiastically.

Positive Experience with Dutch Horses
“I’ve had great experiences with Dutch horses. I’ve ridden quite a few, and all of my all-time favorites have KWPN blood. I currently have only one horse in my stables that does not have KWPN blood; everything else originates from the Netherlands. I’m definitely a big fan and can’t wait to test the best young horses from the Netherlands.”

Determined to Succeed
When Simone Pearce moved from Australia to Europe about fifteen years ago, she was determined to make it. The 34-year-old rider has worked for Helgstrand, Gestüt Sprehe, and Gestüt Bonhomme. Initially focused on the training of young horses and riding many young stallions, she developed all the way to Olympic level.

Two Olympic Games
With the stallion Destano, Simone competed at two Olympic Games. With Fiderdance, she took part in the World Championships in Herning (2022) and the World Cup Final in Omaha (2023). She has ridden in the World Championships for Young Dressage Horses five times in total, winning a bronze medal with No Limit (by Geniaal) in 2023.

Visit the Pavo Cup
In the semifinals of the Pavo Cup for four-, five-, and six-year-old dressage talents, the best young dressage horses compete for a spot in the final. The semifinals will take place in Ermelo on 31 July, and the finals on 2 August 2025.

Pavo Cup Information

Source: KWPN
Photo Simone Pearce & No Limit: Dirk Caremans