The World Championship Four-in-Hand Driving in Szilvásvárad, Hungary, kicked off today with the veterinary inspection. Starting from 10:00 this morning, a total of 215 horses were inspected by the veterinarians. Only one horse did not receive the green light.

It was the end for the fifteen-year-old Esprit (Campbell VDL out of Mirda ster pref prest by Larno). This offspring of the late O.H. Oldenziel has been a consistent performer for Romanian driver Kalman Babo, but will not compete in this event.

Following today’s draw, the dressage start list has been announced. The first competition phase begins tomorrow around 10:00 AM. On Thursday, Koos de Ronde, the first Dutch starter, and Hans Heus will enter the arena. On Friday, IJsbrand and Bram Chardon, as well as Edwin van der Graaff, will perform their dressage tests.

The marathon is scheduled for Saturday, and the cones competition will take place on Sunday. After that, the world champion will be known.

You can follow the performance of these horses via the mediaguide. Follow the Driving World Championship for Four-in-hand in Szilvásvárad on KWPN.org.

GJ for KWPN
Photo: Glenn Geerts by GJ