Second Successful Weekend in a Row for Amber Heidbuchel in the Prix-Saint Georges

The second day of the Belgian Championships once again started under clear blue skies, with the first combinations entering the arena as early as 8 a.m. First on the schedule was the Prix St. Georges. Standing on the top step of the podium was Amber Heidbuchel, followed by Suraya Hendrikx, while Jorinde Verwimp completed the podium lineup. “I’ve had her since she was very young. We’ve gone through the entire young horse journey together and I’m incredibly proud of her. Today, we were once again able to put down a really lovely test.”

A Top Talent at Just 9 Years Old

After a successful weekend at CDIO Lier last week, Amber has now opened her Belgian Championships in impressive fashion as well. Riding Rianta van de Kempenhoeve, she secured the top position on the leaderboard with a score of 72.265%.

The barely nine-year-old mare stands out because of the beautiful and honest picture she presents throughout the entire test. “She was fresh, but not too fresh; sharp, but not too hot. Everything was perfectly balanced. She listened to me really well and was very attentive. I’ve had her since she was three years old, so I know her inside out. We’ve already come such a long way together. She only keeps getting stronger. This is our second year competing at Small Tour level, and I can really feel her becoming more mature in every aspect,” Amber explains.

At home, Rianta lives outside day and night, while at competitions she spends several days in a row in the stable. Naturally, that’s quite a difference, but the mare behaves impeccably and adapts very well.

From Cowboy Hat to Dressage Jacket

Amber is not only active in the dressage arena but also competes in reining competitions. “I try to take a lot from both disciplines and keep learning from each of them. Reining is actually based on dressage, even though the execution looks completely different. For example, the way of riding from the reins that you see in reining is something I also try to apply in the dressage arena. I try to combine the best of both worlds,” says Amber.

She is also full of praise for the venue. “Honestly a 10 out of 10, one of my favorite shows ever. From the stables to the officials, everything is perfectly organized. I absolutely love coming here.”

Results

1. Amber Heidbuchel & Rianta van de Kempenhoeve: 72.265%
2. Suraya Hendrikx & Benicia: 71.941%
3. Jorine Verwimp & Karnival Zee T: 70.529%