The 2025 Summer Classic at Longines Tops International Arena got off to a spectacular start, welcoming a stellar field of international showjumpers to Valkenswaard for an exciting weekend of equestrian sport. The opening day brought together established stars and rising talent, setting the tone for an action-packed weekend under pristine conditions.
Headlining the day’s events was the CSI4* 1.50m speed class, where American rider Jessica Springsteen delivered an exceptional performance aboard her seasoned mare, Naomi van het Keizershof. Their seamless round clocked in at 64.61 seconds, the fastest clear of the competition, placing Springsteen at the top of the leaderboard and securing a significant prize. Her effortless ride and the mare’s agility won applause from both spectators and fellow competitors.
Belgium’s Gilles Thomas wasn’t far behind. Currently ranked among the top 30 globally, Thomas piloted the promising Lavanoche T&L Z with focus and finesse, completing the round in 65.07 seconds. The young Belgian’s consistency and growing international presence have made him one to watch this season.
Dutch fans had reason to cheer as their representative Mathijs van Asten put in a flawless performance with Hotspot, earning a well-deserved third-place finish. Close contenders included Germany’s Christian Ahlmann and Belgium’s Koen Vereecke, both maintaining clean rounds and showcasing depth in talent.
The day’s diverse podium reflected the global reach of this prestigious event. Riders from across Europe, North America, and Latin America brought competitive spirit and skill to the arena, elevating the atmosphere and hinting at the high standards expected throughout the weekend.
Meanwhile, the CSI2* Big Tour opened with a fast-paced 1.45m competition that saw 42 riders go clear out of 82 starters. Brazil’s Eduardo Pereira De Menezes stole the spotlight with Calypso des Matis, setting the standard by breaking the 60-second barrier. His time of 59.87 seconds held strong as the benchmark in an otherwise tightly contested field. American Natalie Dean and Luxembourg’s Victor Bettendorf followed closely behind with swift, clean rounds.
In the 1.40m Two-Phases CSI2* Medium Tour, Guatemala’s Valentina Arenas Saravia showcased speed and control with Lacido, finishing the second phase in just over 29 seconds. Belgian contender Koen Vereecke added to his strong showing by placing second in this class, while Olympic veteran Rodrigo Pessoa took third with Ziggy Stardust.
The CSI1* division brought its own flair to the opening day. Qatar’s equestrian squad made an impact early, with Mohammed Khalifa A Al Baker claiming victory aboard Dukhan 3. Compatriot Rashid Towaim Ali Al Marri secured second, proving the growing strength of the Qatari showjumping team. Belgium’s Helena Beyers rounded out the top three, while Dutch rider Piet Raijmakers Jr narrowly missed the podium.
Later, in the 1.10m and 1.20m Two-Phases classes, standout performances came from Dutch and Belgian youth. Rosanne Janssen guided Caprice K Z to a lightning-quick round, while 2023 European Children’s Champion Clémentine Lux demonstrated class with Cyclone W van de Dauwhoeve Z, winning with ease.
The future of the sport was also on full display in the Young Horse classes. A total of 52 horses took to the sand arena, with many combinations staying fault-free across both phases. Among them, Belgium’s Koen Vereecke continued his hot streak, claiming first place with Siebe van de Nieuwburghoeve. Germany’s Philipp Weishaupt and the Netherlands’ Tom Schellekens followed closely, each showing off their talented mounts.
As day one wrapped up, anticipation began to build for the weekend’s main attractions. Friday’s lineup promises more international action, including the continuation of the Baran Global Hunter Classic, while Sunday’s CSI4* Grand Prix looms large on the horizon. With superb conditions, elite riders, and an electric atmosphere, the Summer Classic at Longines Tops International Arena is living up to its reputation as a crown jewel of the showjumping calendar.
