A total of 40 horse-and-rider combinations qualified for the final, where only seven combinations managed to clear their way into the jump-off. As the last combination to go, Pender rode the Irish bred mare HHS Mercedes (Can Ya Makan x Couletto, bred by Bravo Hughes Ltd) to the finish line in a lightning-fast time of 38.30 seconds.
"I am happy to have won another world title here," Pender said afterwards. "HHS Mercedes was trained by Molly Hughes Bravo and together they won the final for the 7-year-old horses at the Sunshine Tour this year, among others. We then made the plan that I would ride her here at the World Championships, but because of the many shows I compete at, the preparation was not always easy. That's why I did ride her as much as possible in the last few weeks. She really is a fantastic horse to ride, and I am really lucky to have such a good horse under the saddle for the second year in a row with which I can become World Champion!"
Pender's phenomenal ride meant Belgium's Mathieu Bourdeaud'Hui and the BWP-gelding Remco van den Uilenbos (Nixon van ‘t Meulenhof x Triomphe de Muze, bred by Raymond De Loose) had to settle for silver. Bronze went to Ireland as well, thanks to Michael Duffy and his Irish-bred gelding BP Royalty (Comme Il Faut x Obos Quality 004, bred by GBBS International Ltd).
The victory marks another strong performance for Ireland at the championship. The Irish horses and riders have consistently been a force to be reckoned with at the FEI WBFSH Jumping World Breeding Championship for Young Horses, with the 2023 competition seeing Irish-bred horses winning a medal in every age category, and a historic one-two-three in the five-year-old final. This year's championship continues to cement Ireland's position as a powerhouse in young horse breeding and show jumping.
The Importance of Lanaken
The FEI WBFSH Jumping World Breeding Championship for Young Horses, held annually at Zangersheide in Lanaken, Belgium, is a prestigious event that draws together some of the best young horses and riders from around the world. The competition is a vital showcase for the future of show jumping and a key event in the breeding calendar, attracting breeders, owners, and riders alike.
The championship is more than just a competition, it’s also a place to network, to learn from one another and to celebrate the sport. The atmosphere at Lanaken is one of excitement, camaraderie, and genuine passion for the sport.
The Future of the Irish Sport Horse
The Irish Sport Horse has a long and illustrious history in show jumping, and the success of Irish horses and riders at the FEI WBFSH Jumping World Breeding Championship for Young Horses is testament to the quality of breeding in Ireland. The championship serves as a platform for the Irish Sport Horse to showcase its strengths, further cementing its place as a world-class breed.
Ireland is known for its dedication to breeding horses with the right temperament, athleticism, and jumping ability, making them highly sought-after on the international circuit. The championship provides a crucial opportunity for Irish breeders to showcase their horses to a global audience, which in turn can benefit their breeding programs and ultimately contribute to the growth and development of the breed.
A Celebration of Breeding and Sport
The FEI WBFSH Jumping World Breeding Championship for Young Horses is not just a competition but a celebration of the sport of show jumping and the dedication of breeders around the world. It's a chance to witness the next generation of show jumping stars and to celebrate the incredible bond between horse and rider. The championship is a true testament to the dedication and passion that goes into breeding, training, and competing with these extraordinary animals. It’s a celebration of breeding and sport and an event that continues to inspire and captivate horse enthusiasts worldwide.
Lanaken: A Global Hub for Equestrian Excellence
The FEI WBFSH Jumping World Breeding Championship for Young Horses is a testament to Zangersheide's commitment to equestrian sport. The event draws a global audience and provides a platform to showcase the talent and dedication of breeders and riders from around the world. Lanaken has become a global hub for equestrian excellence, and the championship is a cornerstone event in the breeding calendar. The success of the event is a testament to the power of shared passion, dedication, and the joy of witnessing the beauty and athleticism of these remarkable animals.
A Legacy of Success
The FEI WBFSH Jumping World Breeding Championship for Young Horses is not just about the competition, it’s about building a legacy. The success of the championship year after year is a testament to the commitment of all involved, from breeders and riders to the organizers and volunteers. The championship continues to grow and evolve, ensuring the future of show jumping and the continued success of the Irish Sport Horse on the world stage.
