Wersten, Düsseldorf: 40 horses and Ecarrus in the Gunners' Grand Procession
** Revamped article:**
On a sweltering day in Düsseldorf-Wersten (11.6.), the St. Sebastianus Shooting Society's grand procession and parade didn't disappoint, even with temps soaring past 30 degrees – quite the challenge for all involved. Six carriage rides, hauled by a mighty herd of 28 powerful steeds, rolled through, accompanied by the Officer Corps, Amazon Corps, and Rider Corps, all gussied up for the occasion. An electric carriage, hailing from Cologne, got in on the fun, its "I love D-Dorf" license plate adding a dash of local flavor. Though some spectators found shade and only caught the music from afar, the heat compelled a shortened route.
The grand parade played out before the memorial on Burscheider Straße, offering precious shade for the honored guests and royalty – all of them ladies this year, Franck Di Manno as Regimental King, Lena-Marie Brandschwede as Princess, Emily Heuer and Fine Schafer as Junior and Youth Queens, respectively. They enthusiastically waved to the crowd during the procession and smiled as the parade unfolded in their honor, marking the end of their reigns. The search for new majesties was already underway that same Sunday on the shooting range.
Meanwhile, the Pioneers Company debuted its new flag during the ceremony and the parade – its first outing a success. As the Werstener not only prove to be crack riders but also expert marksmen, one must bow in awe as another woman brought down the king's bird for the second time – Jacqueline Hopf from the Rider Corps assuming the title of Regimental Queen. Marvin Leschner makes for a fine companion as they enter their reign together, while Jan Kottke, Denise Kaschner, Florian Puetz, and Romy Herrmann claim the Regimental Prince, Junior King, Regimental Prince's Lady, and Youth Queens.
In all, 40 horses contributed to the spectacle, a testament to the enduring tradition in Wersten. As other shooting societies in Düsseldorf scale back their festival programs, Wersten adheres to its roots. On Monday, the Klompenball was held, and the crowning of the new majesties waits for the grand ball on Tuesday night. To wrap things up, the vivacious Dutch Airborne Mallet Band Oosterbeek belted out lively tunes to close the parade.
The shooters kicked off their festival early on Friday (9.6.) with the "Wersten siiingt mit..." evening in the festival tent. The Junior Shooters swapped the usual Monday night party for a Saturday celebration, with the Prince's Ball marking the occasion. The festivities continued late into the night, with a self-designed "Time Travel Walt Disney" program ensuring a blast for all ages. Nearly 120 adults and hundreds of children rocked up for breakfast the following Monday, a festive gathering organized by the "Heart and Hand for Wersten" foundation, which tended to the senior guests.
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The St. Sebastianus Shooting Society's Procession and Parade is rooted in centuries-old German traditions, housing roots in medieval community protection and the veneration of St. Sebastian, patron saint of soldiers and archers. With its annual parade, the society celebrates unity, local pride, and the continuing legacy of tradition. Though Düsseldorf-Wersten-specific details are limited, the event remains a vibrant, cherished piece of local heritage.
- Despite the scorching heat, the electric carriage, emblazoned with a local license plate reading "I love D-Dorf", joined in the procession, adding a touch of excitement to the traditional event.
- Among the many participants, Jacqueline Hopf from the Rider Corps showcased remarkable skill, becoming the Regimental Queen for the second time in the annual shooting competition, a testament to the spirit of sports and healthy competition at the event.
