Four judges presided over the seven-year-old final in front of packed stands and an enthusiastic crowd. Alongside winner Fiona Bigwood, two Dutch combinations also climbed the podium: silver for Leonie Richter with Most Wanted Nero von Bellin and bronze for Charlotte Fry with Ilegro.

The small final of the seven-year-olds was convincingly won yesterday by German rider Leonie Richter. At this World Championship, she rides for the Netherlands with the stallion Most Wanted Nero von Bellin (registered name Nero Hoksehoeve reg A, Morricone out of Cuwensie pref by Donnerball), who is approved for Hanover, Holstein, and Mecklenburg. This victory earned her a spot in today’s final, where she had to start second. Remarkably, she held that position until the very end. Judge Sven Rothenberger praised the quality so early in the competition. “This stallion needed a moment to find the rhythm in walk, which limited us to a 7.2. But in trot he has everything you want: activity, elasticity, and consistent balance, worth a 9.3. The canter is equally beautiful, with easy adjustability and uphill carriage, rewarded with a 9.0. What stands out most is his relaxation; no stress, always supple, for a 9.2.” Once again, Most Wanted Nero von Bellin delivered a light-footed, harmonious performance that kept him in the lead for quite some time. He was bred by C.J. Bruin in ’t Harde and is registered with MJS Gestüt von Bellin.

Powerhouse
Later in the final, Charlotte Fry entered the arena with Ilegro (s.Inclusive), who had placed second in the qualification. This time, a few minor tension errors kept them from the top spot, but they still secured a fantastic third place. The jury called Ilegro a true “powerhouse.” His trot was once again the highlight, full of technique, power, and an impressive front, earning a 9.5. In walk, he could show more shoulder freedom and overtrack, but the rhythm was always maintained. In canter, some tension appeared, though the gait remained energetic and uphill. Ilegro is without doubt a horse of exceptional quality and bright future. He is out of Jalegrofleur (pref ster PROK by Negro), the full sister of multiple Olympic champion Valegro. Bred by J.L. Hanse and Van Olst Horses, Ilegro is also registered with Van Olst and has already made successful starts at Small Tour level.

Strong fourth place
Also advancing from the small final was Femke de Laat with the KWPN-approved Nashville SW. The stallion had competed at the World Championships for Young Dressage Horses twice before but had never reached the big final, until now. Despite appearing in the arena for the third time in three days, Nashville SW looked fresh and willing. The jury was impressed with his performance, particularly his trot: elastic, energetic, and balanced, earning a 9.3. In walk he showed a clear rhythm, which he maintained in the collected walk. His canter demonstrated suppleness and consistent uphill movement. For much of the competition he held second place, eventually finishing fourth, a superb achievement. Nashville SW is by Secret out of the mare Esina (elite pref IBOP sport PROK by Jazz). He was bred by Stal Willig in Abcoude and is registered with Marco te Brake in Eemnes.

GJ voor KWPN
Foto Most Wanted Nero from Bellin