The world’s finest young Dressage horses gathered in a well-attended Verden (GER) to contest the FEI WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championships for Young Horses across three age divisions. The event was dominated by the Dutch KWPN studbook, which collected five of the nine medals on offer.

7-year-olds: Hattrick for Quinn G

After winning as a five-year-old in 2023 – back then with Betina Jaeger – and as a six-year-old in 2024, the Danish Warmblood mare Quinn G (sired by Quaterhit) once again reigned supreme in Verden. The long-legged chestnut, owned and ridden by Great Britain’s Fiona Bigwood under the Danish quota, scored 81.65% for her third consecutive title.

The pressure was high for Bigwood, with expectations surrounding a two-time World Champion.

Sleepless Night

“I hardly slept last night. I know her basics are good, she does pirouettes and changes with ease. I really wanted to show her off today because she is such a good horse and has so much quality in all three gaits.” – Fiona Bigwood (GBR)

Silver went to Leonie Richter (GER) with KWPN’s Most Wanted Nero von Bellin, riding under the Netherlands’ quota. Initially first reserve, the pair made the most of their chance. “He still had a lot to learn this winter and was still quite green during the Dutch selection trials. I was already happy to be reserve, so to compete here and take silver is fantastic. He has grown in confidence and relaxation during this championship.”

Powerhouse Future

Bronze was claimed by British Charlotte Fry with the KWPN stallion Ilegro, another powerhouse competing for the Netherlands and a nephew to world-record holder Valegro. “I knew I was riding an amazing horse with talent for the Grand Prix, but I thought this might have been a little too soon for him. I’m so proud of how he coped in that arena. He never misses a beat and gives the most incredible feeling,” said Fry.

Henning Lehrmann (GER), president of the ground jury for the 7-year-olds, summed up the division in words that could apply to the whole event: “We saw so many different horses: from powerful stallions to elegant ballerinas. It was fascinating to see such variety, with each horse showing great talent in its own way.”