Johan Hamminga, Alex van Silfhout, and Janine van Twist selected the Dutch team for the World Championships. From September 4th to 8th, six five-, six-, and seven-year-old horses will compete in each age category in Ermelo. Johan Hamminga has been a long-standing member of the committee and will, of course, be present during the World Championships.
Hamminga, an experienced dressage trainer, has noticed a shift in the focus of the selection committee. „We follow what the jury wants to see during the World Championships. In dressage, the emphasis is on harmony and neck length. The judges really want to see that, especially at the highest level. So, pay attention to your horse’s neck length. If it’s too short, you don’t stand much of a chance.“
Quality and good riding
It’s about the complete picture: the quality of both horse and rider. Hamminga emphasizes that it should look effortless and that your horse should respond well to the aids. Three good basic gaits are a must. Also, how you ride your horse towards the vertical line is important. This should be done correctly, from back to front, so that the horse naturally accepts the bit. A good contact and a resilient connection are crucial.
Final training
The last training session for the combinations going to Ermelo and the reserves will take place on August 13th. „We’ll be fine-tuning everything,“ says Hamminga. „We focus on the image that the jury wants to see. Everyone will receive individual attention, especially with the test in mind. Janine van der Twist will provide test-oriented training, so you know exactly what you still need to work on and which parts of the test might be challenging.“
Familiar names
Hamminga sees it as an advantage that even Olympic riders will compete for the Netherlands. „They have an edge. They can handle pressure better, and a small mistake is more likely to be forgiven than with a new name. Fortunately, we’ve also selected several very talented young riders who could do very well.“
Chances
How does Hamminga assess his team’s chances for a medal? „It’s always hard to say because you don’t know the competition or which horses they will bring. We have strong combinations, in any case. In each age category, a few could be in the top group. I’m really looking forward to the World Championships!“
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