Suraya Hendrikx claims first Belgian title of the week in the Diamant Cup

The first Belgian championship title of the week at the Belgian Dressage Championships in Lier has been decided yesterday morning. Suraya Hendrikx claimed the Diamant Cup title with the six-year-old Batshuayi, while Jorinde Verwimp secured both silver and bronze with two different horses. Remarkably, all three horses on the podium were just six years old.

Although Verwimp won the Freestyle to Music, the overall title went to Hendrikx thanks to her consistent performances throughout the championship. Verwimp finished second with Ulandro van de Kempenhoeve and third with Power Black VK. “I’m really happy with the result,” said Verwimp afterwards. “I finished second with Ulandro van de Kempenhoeve and third with Power Black VK. Both horses are by Kjento and they were also the two youngest horses in the class.” The silver medal was particularly special for Verwimp, as Ulandro is her own horse.

Maternity leave
“Ulandro belongs to me. I bought him as a four-year-old and this was only his third competition at this level, so I’m really pleased with how he performed.” Power Black VK, who completed the podium, is ridden by Verwimp on behalf of his owner, Ruut Pasgang. “Power Black is a horse I ride for his owner, Ruut Pasgang, who is currently on maternity leave. It’s great to achieve such a result with him as well.” Despite Verwimp’s double podium finish and freestyle victory, Suraya Hendrikx and Batshuayi proved the strongest combination across the entire championship, securing the first Belgian title awarded during this year’s event in Lier.

Grand Prix prospect
For Verwimp, the future looks particularly bright with Ulandro. “He is definitely a horse for the future. I believe he has all the qualities to develop towards Grand Prix level.” With an entire podium filled by six-year-old horses and several exciting talents on display, the Diamant Cup once again highlighted the promising future of Belgian dressage.