Mechelen, Belgium – December 28, 2024 – The tension in the Nekkerhal was palpable as Koen Vereecke (BEL) and Oilily de Muze (Vigo d’Arsouilles Stx x Ramiro Z | BWP) raced to an unforgettable victory. For the first time in history, not only was the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup, presented by BWP, completely sold out, but the KBC Bank and Insurance CSI 5*-W evening also drew a packed audience. The excitement continues as tomorrow’s Sport Vlaanderen Grand Prix is also expected to attract a full house.
Of the 44 top riders aiming to claim the KBC Bank and Insurance CSI 5*-W title, 11 made it to the jump-off. The jump-off turned into a thrilling battle, with Koen Vereecke emerging as the ultimate winner. Talent of the Year, Mathieu Bourdeaud’Hui (21), and Oscar the Homage (Quint vh Maarlo Z x Arko III | BWP) came tantalizingly close. “It felt incredible to be cheered on so loudly by this audience,” said Mathieu. “Oscargave a little buck after the Zangersheide style jump, and that’s where I lost the round to Koen.”
Koen added: “I’ve competed against Mathieu many times and have often lost to him. But today, I was the fastest. Oilily is simply an amazing horse. She always gives her best at every competition. This year, she might have missed the top five only once, and she wins very often. Once again, she’s performing at her best. She was third at the Belgian Championship, and now she wins again.”
Mathieu is one of six Belgian U25 riders competing in the 5* division at Jumping Mechelen. Koen concluded: “If he keeps his feet on the ground and continues as he is, he’ll definitely make it. Good horses will undoubtedly keep coming his way.”
Final Results – €28,200 KBC Bank & Verzekering CSI 5*-W
1) Koen Vereecke (BEL) & Oilily de Muze – 0 / 0 – 35.62
2) Mathieu Bordeaud’Hui (BEL) & Oscar the Homage – 0 / 0 – 36.44
3) Willem Greve (NED) & Highway TN N.O.P. – 0 / 0 – 37.44
Source: Press Release from Jumping Mechelen
Photo: © Jumping Mechelen
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Categories: CSI 5*-W, English, Jumper News Belgie
