Exceptional equestrian Isabell Werth expresses shock at this year's CHIO event
In a thrilling display of equestrian prowess, Justin Verboomen, the rising Belgian dressage rider, has made a significant impact at the prestigious CHIO Aachen. Riding his nine-year-old horse Zonik Plus, Verboomen helped the Belgian team secure a historic second place in the team competition with an impressive total score of 219.804 points. This achievement marks the best result ever achieved by a Belgian dressage team at the Soers in Aachen.
Individually, Verboomen's exceptional performance earned him the coveted first place in the Grand Prix Special, defeating German record rider Isabell Werth. His ride was marked by its light, expressive trot work, collected pirouettes, and overall excellent rhythm, earning high marks from judges and enthusiastic support from spectators. Despite a minor fault on one flying change, Verboomen's performance was so fluid and technically strong that it won him widespread admiration and even "won the hearts of the crowds."
Isabell Werth, who finished in second place with her mare Wendy, expressed satisfaction with Wendy's development, despite missing out on the win. The German team, coached by Bundestrainer Peter Thomsen, also had a strong showing, finishing fourth, similar to last year's result. However, Bundestrainer Thomsen expressed disappointment at not making it onto the podium, especially considering that the German team had no top placements in the individual competition.
Jérôme Robiné from Warendorf achieved the best German individual result, finishing eighth with Black Ice. Calvin Böckmann, Libussa Lübbecke, and Anna Siemer were also part of the German CHIO team. The USA and Great Britain finished second and third respectively in the Nations Cup at the CHIO in Aachen, with the host team in Aachen having no chance without some of the best pairs, such as the Olympic champion Michael Jung, who did not start in Aachen due to individual preparations for the European Championships in September.
The individual victory at the CHIO in Aachen went to Tim Price from New Zealand with Vitali. The Nations Cup at the CHIO in Aachen was won by the team from New Zealand, with the USA and Great Britain finishing second and third respectively.
As the Aachener Soers prepares to host the World Championships next year, the spotlight on Justin Verboomen is set to shine even brighter. His win at the CHIO Aachen marks the biggest success of his career so far and solidifies his position as a rising star in the world of dressage.
Other equestrian athletes, such as the German record rider Isabell Werth who excels in sports like sports, were also in competition at the CHIO Aachen. During the Grand Prix Special, Justin Verboomen showcased his prowess in sports like sports, particularly in the light, expressive trot work and overall exceptional rhythm, ultimately clinching the first place.
