Shirley Vanerom on a winning streak

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After an outstanding series of victories during last week’s CDIO, Shirley Vanerom is continuing her success story at the Belgian Championships. Riding Ogami van het Beukenhof, she claimed victory in the Children’s class with an impressive score of 80.125%. Second place went to Emilija Rucinskaite aboard Nice Guy STW with 79.590%, while Julliet Guillebon and Spartacus MSJ completed the podium on 75.018%.From International Success to National Dominance

With four international victories already secured during CDIO Lier, Shirley and her mare are clearly in exceptional form.
“My test felt really good today, although she was a little tired. But that’s completely understandable after everything we’ve done together over the past few days,” Shirley said with a smile. The pair have now been together for around two years, building a strong and trusting partnership. “What I love most about her is that she always, truly always, gives her best. No matter the situation, she keeps fighting for me.”

Shirley Vanerom – Ogami van het Beukenhof
BK Lier 2026
© DigiShots

 

Enjoying the Most Difficult Exercises

Although the riders in the Children’s division are still young, the level of the tests is already remarkably demanding. For Shirley, however, the most technical movements are often the most enjoyable. “The exercises that most riders find the hardest are actually my favourites. We like a challenge! The flying changes and the half-passes, for example, are really fun to ride. Sometimes things go wrong, but that’s part of the sport.”

Despite her young age, Shirley already has plenty of international experience and feels completely at home at Azelhof in Lier. “Everything is organised so well here, I really enjoy competing in Lier. Not only is the venue itself fantastic, but I also love how everyone comes together during a multi-day show. The atmosphere is just amazing.”

 

Results

  1. Shirley Vanerom & Ogami van het Beukenhof: 80.125%
  2. Emilija Rucinskaite & Nice Guy STW: 79.590%
  3. Julliet Guillebon & Spartacus MSJ: 75.018%

Alexine Herweyers takes top two spots in Pony Team Test: golden finale in sight?

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Alexine Herweyers dominated the Pony Team Test by claiming both first and second place with two different ponies. Riding Lesh la Perla, she topped the leaderboard with a score of 72.092%, while her second pony, Terbofens Charico, followed closely behind in second place with 70.200%. Emilie Marannes and Matteo 5 completed the podium in third with 69.714%.

Alexine Herweyers – Lesch la Perla
BK Lier
© DigiShots

Final year in the pony division

“I honestly had such an amazing ride today with both ponies. I’m 16 this year, so this is my final year in the pony division. That’s why I’m really trying to enjoy every single moment to the fullest,” said Alexine afterwards.

Alexine has already built a strong partnership with both ponies over the years. “They are both completely different, but fantastic to ride in their own way. One is a bit fresher and more forward-going, while the other is slightly more reserved.”

The young rider has already represented Belgium three times at the European Championships with her ponies. After taking silver at the Belgian Championships in both 2024 and 2025, she now seems firmly on course for another podium finish. The big question remains: could this finally become the golden ending to her pony career?

Looking ahead to the future

Next year Alexine will make the step up to the Junior division, something she is already eagerly preparing for. “At the moment, I’m only training with my horse at home and we’re taking things step by step. We want to prepare as well as possible for next year, because it’s my biggest dream to one day be selected for the Belgian team at the European Championships in this category as well. Every year, that’s my dream: to compete there and perform strong tests. To do that with the big horses would be absolutely amazing!”

According to Alexine, one of the best things about multi-day competitions is the atmosphere. “You’re here together with everyone, and because you often meet the same people at competitions, it’s always nice to see each other again.”

 

Results:
1. Alexine Herweyers & Lesh la Perla: 72.029%
2. Alexine Herweyers & Terbofens Charico: 70.200%
3. Emilie Marannes & Matteo 5: 69.714%

Johansen sets the standard in Lier Junior Team Test

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Denmark’s Rikke Maria Schoubye Johansen added another victory to her growing list of achievements by winning the Junior Team Test at CDI Lier. The class, powered by ClipMyHorse.TV, produced a strong podium, with all top three combinations scoring above 70%. Johansen’s 71.768% was the highest mark of the day.

On their first day in Lier, the 16-year-old rider and her 13-year-old Baunehoejens Carpaccio delivered a fluent and mistake-free test to secure the win. Johansen has been competing Carpaccio at Junior level since last year, and the pair have quickly built an impressive record. Alongside a Danish national Junior title, they have collected multiple international victories, including success at CDIO Lier last season.

A lot of temperament
Despite their achievements, Carpaccio is not always an easy ride for the young Dane. “We had a very good test, which I am really happy about, because Carpaccio has a lot of temperament. He is quickly impressed by his surroundings. But today everything went very well. I was able to manage his energy and use it in a good way”, the rider reflected. Johansen was also aware of the strength of the field in Lier. “I had a nice test, but some combinations before and after me also rode well. It is a strong field, and the result is up to the judges. I hope to ride two more tests like this later this week. The main goal for this season is, of course, the European Championships”, she added.

Rikke Maria Schoubye Johansen (DEN) – Baunehoejens Carpaccio
CDI Lier 2026
© DigiShots

Also Denmark in second place
Denmark also claimed second place, as Alberte Josefine Harsbo and Napoli TH scored 70.909%. The Netherlands completed the podium, with Mirthe Willig and her mare Just Biantoes finishing third on 70.455%. Tomorrow afternoon, the Juniors will compete in their Individual Test.

Results

Belgium prepares once again for a special dressage year

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Belgium Dressage Events looks ahead to a promising dressage season in 2026 and proudly announces the dates of its three international events at Azelhof Equestrian Center in Lier. With CDI Lier, CDIO Lier and the Belgian Dressage Championships, a strong and diverse program once again features on the calendar. Belgian dressage experienced remarkable highlights this year, ranging from a historic home victory in the Nations Cup to an individual European gold medal won by Justin Verboomen.

The dressage season in Lier kicks off with the ninth edition of CDI Lier, taking place from February 24 to March 1, 2026. The international event will once again offer a wide range of classes, including CDI 4*, 3* and 1*, complemented by international youth categories. Over the past years, CDI Lier has established itself as a key fixture on the international calendar and is regarded by many combinations as an important early-season preparation event.

Preparation for the 2026 World Championship year

The year 2026 is marked by the FEI Dressage World Championships in Aachen, making CDI Lier an ideal benchmark for riders aiming to assess their form on the road to the World Championships. “CDI Lier fits perfectly into that preparation,” says Chairman Wim Verwimp. Entries for CDI Lier are now open.

CDIO Lier returns after successful debut

Following the highly successful Nations Cup event last year, highlighted by a historic home victory for the Belgian team, CDIO Lier will return in 2026. From May 21 to May 24, Lier will once again host a CDIO, further strengthening its position as a stage for top-level team competitions. In a World Championship year, CDIO Lier can also be seen as a valuable preview of the Nations Cup and team competitions later in the season.

Belgian Dressage Championships

The international dressage program concludes with the Belgian Dressage Championships, held from May 27 to May 31, 2026. During this championship, Belgium’s best combinations will compete for the national titles in an attractive and sporting atmosphere.

With these three events, Belgium Dressage Events once again underlines its ambition to bring together international top sport, talent development and national championships at one single venue. Further information regarding schedules, classes and participants will be communicated through the official Belgium Dressage Events channels.

Christmas gift for dressage lovers, and in celebration of a historic year for Belgian dressage

To celebrate the festive season and the exceptional achievements of Belgian dressage, Belgium Dressage Events is offering a special Christmas promotion. Until 1 January, dressage fans can enjoy 25% discount on tickets for CDI Lier 2026.

Use the discount code Happy2026 when purchasing your tickets and secure your place at one of the highlights of the international dressage calendar.

TICKETS

Photo Justin Verboomen & Zonik Plus: Digishots

Sophie Jamar Crowned Belgian U25 Champion

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The U25 Championship was wide open going into the final. The margins were tight, but in the end it was Sophie Jamar who claimed the Belgian U25 Champion title with San Rico. The pair scored 73.585% in the freestyle to music powered by ClipMyHorse.

With that performance, she pushed Zoë Niessen into silver position and Britt Baranyai to bronze. This is Sophie Jamar’s final year in the U25 category. “I hope to qualify for the European Championships this summer, I’m definitely going to give it my all,” she said. San Rico is a 15-year-old gelding by San Amour. “This was only our second freestyle together, and he really did an amazing job. I was very happy with my test and incredibly proud to ride here. It’s truly a fantastic show,” Jamar added. “San Rico is very sensitive and has a big heart. He always gives his all and has so much potential for the movements.”

Dreaming of the Grand Prix
Jamar works at a dressage stable in Germany, where she rides many horses. “In the future, I hope to become a successful Grand Prix rider and to compete young horses at the World Championships for Young Dressage Horses, that’s really a dream of mine.”

The Podium
Silver went to Zoë Niessen, who had won the first test on Friday with Paco Rabanne (by Charmeur). Her freestyle today earned her 70.975% and a third place in the kür, which secured the overall silver medal. Bronze was claimed by Britt Baranyai and Buffon (by Gribaldi), who finished second in the freestyle with 72.290%, earning the bronze overall.

Results

Photo: Digishots

Liezel Everars claims Belgian title in the Young Riders

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The first championship of the day has been decided. In a competitive battle for the Young Riders title, Liezel Everars ultimately came out on top. With her horse Venere (Vitalis), she delivered an impressive score of 75.415%, putting her ahead of Jette de Jong.

Being the last rider to enter the arena brought it’s share of pressure. “I was really stressed before the test, which usually doesn’t happen to me”, Liezel admits honestly. Nevertheless, she managed to perform under pressure and delivered a beautiful test. “Today went super well. The first two days I was a bit unsure, which led to some mistakes. But today, everything just came together perfectly. I’m so happy”, she says proudly about her title.

Liezel Everars – Venere
Belgisch Kampioenschap Dressuur 2025
© DigiShots

A special victory with a meaningful horse
Liezel achieved this remarkable result with Venere, a horse with a very special story. “It’s actually quite a special story for me. My previous horse sadly passed away at a competition in June 2024”, she shares. “So we started looking for a new horse and, by coincidence, we came across Venere, the full sister of my late horse. That makes this win even more special,” says the new champion, who has only been riding Venere for a short time. “I’ve only been riding her since winter, so we’re still a fairly new combination. That makes this achievement even more meaningful.”

Liezel is no stranger to the Belgian Championship. She was crowned national champion three times before in the pony category. “It’s such a beautiful event, and there’s always a great atmosphere at the Belgian Championship. Every year, it’s a real pleasure to ride here”, says the brand-new Belgian Young Riders Champion, Liezel Everars.

Liezel Everars – Venere
Belgisch Kampioenschap Dressuur 2025
© DigiShots

Results – Young Riders

  1. Liezel Everars – Venere | 214.327%
  2. Jette de Jong – Indini | 213.061%
  3. Jef Sutherland – Thorgal Biolley | 207.326%

Amber Hennes shines as the new Belgian Junior Champion

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Today marked the final day for the Juniors to give it their all in the battle for the Belgian title. With 17 riders at the start, the competition was fierce for the dressage championship. Amber Hennes proved unbeatable, claiming not only the final test but also the Belgian Championship with her 15-year-old partner, NESA Stables Allegro v/h Trichelhof.

After a strong start on day one, Amber faced a slight setback yesterday, but today she made a remarkable comeback, earning her the title of Belgian Junior Champion. “I’m incredibly grateful and proud of Allegro. Things went really well today. Yesterday, it was a bit more difficult, but today he was back in top form, listening very well and with the right amount of energy. I’m really happy”, Amber said about her rides at the Belgian Championship.

Amber Hennes – Nesa Stables Allegro v/h Trichelhof
Belgisch Kampioenschap Dressuur 2025
© DigiShots

“To me, he’s simply a god”
Amber and NESA Stables Allegro v/h Trichelhof have been a combination for ten years. “He’s been with me since I was seven. Back then, my mom was still riding him, but when I was eleven, I took over. We really grew up together”, she explains. Allegro means more to Amber than words can express. “There’s so much to say about him. He’s incredibly sweet, he’s just a god to me”, she says with deep affection.

The Juniors competed all weekend on the beautiful grounds of the Azelhof. “It’s really special to ride here. The Belgian Championship always has a unique atmosphere, it’s just something completely different than a regular competition”, says the newly crowned Belgian Junior Champion 2025.

Amber Hennes – Nesa Stables Allegro v/h Trichelhof
Belgisch Kampioenschap Dressuur 2025
© DigiShots

Results
1st: Amber Hennes – NESA Stables Allegro v/h Trichelhof, 214.371%
2nd: Emiie Herweyers – Belle Vista, 212.107%
3rd: Xyliana de Rover – Hamlet, 210.940%

Photos: Digishots

Elise van Os crowned Belgian Champion Children 2025

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On the fourth day of the Belgian Championship, the Children riders kicked off the morning with their grand final. After two convincing wins earlier this week, Elise van Os once again delivered a strong performance today with her horse Reliv Van ’t Amaryllishof. Scoring an impressive 76.621% in the Ruitersport Lydia Dehertoge prize, she left the competition behind and claimed the title of Belgian Champion Children 2025.

“He’s such an amazing horse”
Elise was thrilled with the test that secured her the championship. “It went super well, I’m really happy,” she said enthusiastically. “There were a few small mistakes, but overall it was a really nice test.” Her appreciation for her horse was clear: “Reliv is such an amazing horse. He always gives his best, is very sweet, and loves cuddles. It’s such a joy to work with him.”

Elise van Os – Reliv van ’t Amaryllishof
Belgisch Kampioenschap Dressuur 2025
© DigiShots

For young riders like Elise, the Belgian Championship is a unique opportunity to shine at a high level. “It’s such a great experience to be able to ride here,” she said. And she wrapped up that experience with the ultimate reward: the Belgian Champion title.

The silver medal went to Shirley Vanerom and her impressive Ogami van het Beukenhof. Third place was claimed by Leontine Lemmens and her elegant horse Opperfee.

Elise van Os – Reliv van ’t Amaryllishof
Belgisch Kampioenschap Dressuur 2025
© DigiShots

Results
1st – Elise van Os, Reliv Van ’t Amaryllishof, 232.964%
2nd – Shirley Vanerom, Ogami van het Beukenhof, 223.283%
3rd – Leontine Lemmens, Opperfee, 215.013%

Thamar Zweistra Opens CDIO Lier with a win

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This morning marked the official start of the first day at CDIO Lier, kicking off with the CDI1* Small Tour class. The competition was fierce, featuring top names such as Lottie Fry, Isabell Werth, Marieke van der Putten, and Thamar Zweistra. Riding her stallion Hexagon’s Mr. Magnum (by Expression), Thamar claimed the top spot on the podium with a score of 73.481%.

It was Thamar’s debut at CDIO Lier, and it turned out to be a successful one. “This is my first time here. I think it’s beautiful, they’ve really done a great job”, Thamar said about the event.

“You’d hardly believe he’s a stallion”
Earlier in March, Thamar competed with her eight-year-old Expression stallion at The Dutch Masters, where he won his first international Small Tour. He delivered another strong performance here at CDIO Lier, even achieving a new personal best. “I was really happy. There were still a few small mistakes, but he felt very good and was nice and steady”, Thamar commented.

This up-and-coming talent is not only impressive in appearance but also exceptionally well-behaved. “Mr. Magnum is a stallion, but he’s so well-mannered you’d barely notice. He’s always very eager, super supple, he’s just a fantastic horse”, Thamar said proudly.

Looking ahead to the Nations Cup
This Saturday, CDIO Lier will host Belgium’s very first Nations Cup. Thamar will be part of the Dutch team, riding Hexagon’s Luxuriouzz N.O.P.T., who will be making his Nations Cup debut. “I don’t have any expectations yet for the Nations Cup. He handles a lot of things really well, but sometimes still finds it all a bit exciting. He’s an incredibly talented horse, very eager, and always up for it”, Thamar said, looking ahead to Saturday with hopeful anticipation.

Results Small Tour
1: Thamar Zweistra, Haxagons Mr. Magnum (73.418%)
2: Marieke van der Putten, About You RS2 (71.863%)
3: Isabell Werth, Skovens Tzarina (70.931%)

Results

World-class line-up for CDIO Lier: Belgium competes at full strength on home soil

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The international dressage elite gathers in Lier for a historic edition of the FEI Dressage Nations Cup, hosted on Belgian soil for the very first time from 15 – 18 May! With superstars like Isabell Werth and Charlotte Fry on the entry list, spectators can expect top-level sport and unforgettable moments.

Team Belgium is ready to shine. National coach Jeroen van Lent has selected a powerful quartet: Charlotte Defalque (Botticelli), Domien Michiels (Intermezzo van het Meerdaalhof), Larissa Pauluis (Flambeau), and Justin Verboomen (Zonik Plus). Expectations are high after the Olympic performances of Pauluis and Michiels in Paris and Verboomen’s World Cup Grand Prix win in Mechelen.

Fierce Competition
The competition will be fierce. Germany fields a strong team led by dressage legend Isabell Werth (Superb), alongside Katharina Hemmer (Denoix PCH), Matthias Alexander Rath (Destacado FRH), and Carina Scholz (Soiree d’Amour), who recently competed together in the World Cup Final. The Dutch squad features Thamar Zweistra (Hexagon’s Luxuriouzz) and Olympian Hans Peter Minderhoud (Glock’s Taminiau).

Olympians Galore
There’s even more to enjoy on the start list. Reigning World Champion and 2025 FEI Dressage World Cup winner Charlotte Fry will ride Nespresso in the Nations Cup and bring Everdale for the CDI3*. Sweden arrives in full force with 2024 World Cup Final winner Patrik Kittel (Touchdown), joined by the experienced Tinne Vilhelmson Silfvén (Hyatt), Maria von Essen (Invoice), and Malin Wahlkamp Nilsson (Zackson).
Belgium’s Suraya Hendrikx, Sam Verheyden, and Wim Verwimp will also fly the national flag in the CDI3* Grand Prix. CDIO Lier promises a unique blend of world-class dressage and homegrown pride, with Team Belgium ready to fight for top honours.

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