After winning team bronze at the Tokyo Olympics, Belgium was back on the podium at the Longines FEI European Championships 2021 – this time, with up-and-coming, fairly inexperienced horses. Chef d'Equipe Peter Weinberg had all the reason to be proud of his bronze boys, who delivered four stunning clear rounds in Friday's final with Jade vd Bisschop, Varoune, Le Blue Diamond v'T Ruytershof and Katanga v/h Dingeshof stepping up for the occasion.
All photos © Jenny Abrahamsson for World of Showjumping. No reproduction of these images is permitted.
Jos Verlooy and Varoune.
Olivier Philippaerts was all smiles with his stunning Le Blue Diamond, that we all have fallen in love with!
High-five to Pieter Devos from his wife Caroline after Jade vd Bisschop jumped another clear for the team. Devos now sits third on the individual standings going into Sunday.
Thumbs up from Nicola Philippaerts, who did his first senior Europeans and jumped straight up to the podium.
It's a family affair for the Philippaerts'.
Team Belgium watching Pieter Devos' round.
The stunning Jade vd Bisschop has really impressed with Pieter Devos skilfully guiding her around.
Got to love Le Blue Diamond!!
A big kiss for Katanga.
A happy Jos Verlooy!
Pieter, Jade and Simon.
Olivier Philippaerts' Le Blue Diamond and Jacqueline.
Varoune and Fran.
Jan Vermeiren, co-owner of Le Blue Diamond.
-
Image Description
-
Image Description
Katanga and Tiffany.
Congratulations to the Belgian bronze boys!
Then