FEI World Driving Championships For Ponies , Oirschot, Netherlands 2023

The best pony driving in the world will gather to compete for the 2023 FEI World Title in Oirschot, Netherlands, August 29-September 3. The FEI Combined Driving competition featuring all three divisions, singles, pairs and four-in-hand, is hosted by the Steenhof Stables on a course designed and developed just for ponies.

The 2022 test event which has been the annual location for the Dutch National Championship for ponies had the international flair of a real World Championships. New obstacles were introduced with a course design by Johan Jacobs, offering easy access to all obstacles, and the hospitality venue. The grass dressage and cones arena is surrounded by an intimate VIP dining area, vendors, and stage where nightly entertainment was offered.

With over 100 entries representing 11 countries and officials slated to participate in 2023, the test event was a huge success and competition enjoyed by all, competitors and officials alike. "I love the Pony Driving World Championships, it's my favorite." stated one of the FEI judges invited to be a part of the event. "Of all the Driving Competitions, this is the most enjoyable to judge and be a part of. Who doesn't love watching these ponies and their drivers."

About the Pony Driving World Championships

The late HRH Prince Philip created the sport of Combined Driving when he was president of the FEI. Modeled after the sport of eventing it includes three phases: Dressage, Marathon and Cones. In fact The Duke of Edinburgh himself competed in 2005, the second Pony Driving World Championships, Catton, England with his team of Fell Ponies.

2005 was the year the USA made history with Suzy Stafford and Cefnoakpark Bouncer winning an individual Gold Medal, and having the best result of the entire event. 

Held every two years, the previous competition was held in  Le Pin, France (2021) and in 2019 in Kisber, Hungary. 

With teams from over 20 countries expected to participate this unique competition is a competitor friendly event demonstration world class skill and focus. Many of the worlds top Four-In-Hand Horse Drivers participate as team coaches. Competitors can range in ages for 18 to 74 years old, and multiple breeds and varieties of ponies compete.

Twenty years after the first Pony Driving World Championships, Oirchot will be the host of the only FEI Combined Driving World Championships.The only FEI Driving Sport Championships that features all three divisions of the sport: Singles, Pairs and Four-In-Hand Ponies. Countries eligible to have a team are required to have at least one entry of each division.

The Location

Located in the Brabant Region of the Netherlands, the historic area is easy access from Amsterdam, and Brussels airport. The charming town of Oirschot offers multiple restaurants, shops and has easy access to the venue. With hotels, Air B&B's and other lodging options in high demand it is best to arrange accommodations sooner than later. 

The event will feature entertainment and activities for families and children offering a glimpse into the world of Pony Driving Sport.

The Schedule

A trio of events in which more than 100 international driving teams will compete will determine the new 2023 World Pony Driving Champions.

World Championshot programme:

• Tuesday 29 August - Veterinary inspection + World Championship opening ceremony
• Wednesday August 30 - Dressage
• Thursday August 31 - Dressage
• Friday September 1 - Dressage
• Saturday September 2 - Marathon + after party
• Sunday September 3 - Cones  followed by driving awards ceremony with lap of honor  honoring of the new World Champion 2023

Entrance: The event is open to everyone. It is also a fun event with lots of entertainment for non-horse lovers.

Ticket sales start in early March. Tickets are available at ponydrivingoirschot.com.

When and where:
Date: August 29 to September 3rd 2023
Address: Steenovenweg 1 5091 JS Oirschot