Shirley Vanerom and Ogami crowned Belgian Children Champions after perfect championship

There was no stopping Shirley Vanerom and Ogami van het Beukenhof at the Belgian Dressage Championships in Lier. After winning all three championship tests, the pair convincingly secured the Children title, improving on last year’s silver medal performance. Emilija Rucinskaite claimed the silver medal with Nice Guy STW, while Lune de Sloovere and Energy completed the podium in bronze position.

“I am really happy,” smiled the newly crowned champion afterwards. “I didn’t make any major mistakes and I really tried to focus on the details throughout my test.” The partnership between Vanerom and Ogami has been steadily growing over the past two years and is clearly paying off. “We have been a combination for a little over two years now. Ogami always tries to think along with me and really wants to do her best.”

Like many dressage riders, Vanerom has her favourite movements, but luckily they are also the ones her horse enjoys most. “Ogami loves doing the half passes and the flying changes, and those are my favourite exercises as well.” The championship week in Lier offered plenty of memorable moments, both inside and outside the arena. “My favourite part was definitely the prize givings and simply enjoying my tests. I always love coming to Lier because everything is so well organised.”

With the national title now secured, Vanerom is already looking ahead to the next big goal of the season. “I hope I can finish on the podium at the European Championships as well.” After three outstanding performances and a flawless championship campaign, Shirley Vanerom and Ogami have certainly established themselves as one of Belgium’s most promising Children combinations heading into the international season.

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