Competition in Aachen ran August 10-23. Over 680 human competitors and around 815 horses representing 65 countries took part in the 2026 FEI World Championships. Countries competing for the first time at the Championships were Cyprus, Indonesia, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Monaco, Uzbekistan and Zimbabwe.  

Six sport disciplines were contested, three each week. Week one was dressage, eventing and vaulting. Driving, para-dressage and show jumping filled week two. Find more about the 2026 FEI World Championships here.

Laura Kraut (USA) and Baloutinue jumping in front of the Aachen crowd at the 2026 FEI World Championships. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

USA Shines Brightly

All in all, it was a successful Championships for the USA. U.S. athletes tied with overall-medal-count-winner Germany for the most number of gold medals earned (6) and placed third in number of medals collected (8 for the USA, 20 for Germany and 13 for Great Britain).  

The USA came away with team gold and five individual/freestyle golds in para-dressage (Marie Vonderheyden two medals, Fiona Howard one medal, Kate Shoemaker, two medals). With the para-dressage team gold in Aachen on a record-setting score, the U.S. continued to dominate the sport, having also won team gold at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games and team bronze at the 2022 FEI World Championships in Herning, Denmark.  

The U.S. Para Dressage team celebrates gold. Photo by Kim MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

In eventing, the USA won team bronze with Will Coleman riding Diabolo for the USA to fourth in the final individual standings. His teammates Boyd Martin and Cooley Nutcracker finished 13th and Phillip Dutton and Denim, in 27th. 

Chester Weber of the USA won individual bronze in driving, breaking his own previous world record in the dressage phase with his stellar four-in-hand of Dutch Harness horses (Amadeus, Despardo, Kadora, Julius V, and Nico Tuesje C*). The U.S. Driving Team finished fifth in the final tally.  

U.S. vaulter Kimberly Palmer finished her World Championships in fourth place. The U.S. Vaulting Team finished sixth in the standings.  

There was also a fourth-place finish for the U.S. Jumping Team (less than one rail out of the bronze-medal position). U.S. riders Laura Kraut and Baloutinue and McLain Ward and High Star Hero both competed in the individual finals, finishing 14th and 21st, respectively. Sixteen-year-old J.J. Torano and the stallion Lyon 50, owned by Kadley Farms LLC and North Run, represented the USA in the CSI-Y division winning the class on the first day, were members of the winning team on day two, and finishing 11th in the final.  

The U.S. Dressage Team had a number of last-minute substitutions, but the team came together and gave their best earning valuable experience. U.S. rider Christian Simonson riding Zen Elite’s stallion Fleau de Baian advanced to the Grand Prix Special, finishing 29th individually. U.S.-based rider from Ecuador, Julio Mendoza Loor riding Jewel’s Goldstrike, placed 22nd in the Grand Prix Special. And, Canada’s Brittany Frasier-Beaulieu, who many will recognize from the Florida circuit, finished 27th in the Special with her Jaccardo.

U.S. Athletes and Chefs d’ Equipe Share the Joy

Dressage

Christian Simonson said after his Grand Prix Special test on Fleau de Baian, owned by Zen Elite Equestrian Center and cared for by Georgia Morgan, “He felt amazing in the ring today—with me at each step—and the passage and the extension work I was so happy with. I had a cheeky little mistake coming into the first half-passes where I did some changes thinking I was still in the Grand Prix test. It’s been an amazing journey. I feel very grateful to learn and grow while continuing my career. This was an example of that today; I’m very happy to be here.”

Christian Simonson (USA) riding Zen Elite’s stallion Fleau de Baian. Photo by Sarah Miller/MacMillan Photography

Eventing

Will Coleman commented on the consistent performances of his horse Diabolo and the team effort to earn bronze, “‘Dabs’ was just himself all week—he is such a star. He is incredible. He knows the job and I knew he was going to do everything in his power to leave the rails up. I think it’s a testament to the team. All four of us didn’t get off to the greatest start, but everybody kept a really cool head. We kept chipping away throughout the course of the weekend. Our management, Leslie [Law] and Karyn [Schuter], exuded a certain amount of confidence and we fed off that. We made each day count as best we could.” 

Will Coleman (USA) and Diabolo, whose fourth-place finish helped secure team bronze for the U.S. Eventing Team. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan

Vaulting

Kimberly Palmer talked about how the Aachen atmosphere played into her fifth World Championship appearance, the work she’d put in to get there and working with lunger Laura Carnabuci and her horse Rosenstolz, “It’s really special to be here, to be in this huge arena with all the spectators. I heard a huge squad of people cheering; that was really empowering. I’ve been working with Laura and Rosenstolz for about five years now. I was paired with another one of her horses, and then she allowed me to vault him at the end of 2021. I was really excited for freestyle this week, and just wanted to show my best, and how hard I’ve been training.” 

Vaulter Kimberly Palmer (USA) finished her World Championships in fourth place. Photo by Sarah Miller/MacMillan Photography

Driving

Chester Weber went into the cones phase on the final day of driving, after spectacular efforts by him and his team in dressage and marathon, knowing a medal was on the line. They dropped one ball in cones, but still came away with individual bronze. “I feel great, and the horses felt fantastic to drive. I had a little bit of a cheap fault very early on, which was my fault, so I was super pleased with the horses. I think that at the end of the day, it has to be something like that [Formula 1 Racing]. Without a good engine guy and a good tire guy, you can’t make racing happen. I have the most fantastic people behind me and the horses. They make my job possible. It’s a team sport—there’s not a man standing here before me today that can do this well without a team.”  

Chester Weber (USA) won individual bronze in driving, breaking his own previous world record in the dressage phase with his stellar four-in-hand of Dutch Harness horses. Photo by Sarah Miller/MacMillan Photography

Jumping

Chef d’ Equipe Robert Ridland on the U.S. Jumping Team’s fourth-place finish and McLain Ward’s clear round on High Star Hero in the team final, “McLain showed us tonight why he’s the anchor: he’s done it before, and that’s why he goes last. We had quite a few high points. Katie came through for us on the second day, which was great because she didn’t have a great first day, and Laura and Lillie were consistent throughout. It wasn’t our night for the podium, but we still pulled together a strong performance against the world’s best combinations to finish in the top four out of 31 international teams.” 

McLain Ward (USA) and High Star Hero. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Para-Dressage

Kate Shoemaker, who competes in Grade IV due to partial paralysis of her right leg from periventricular leukomalacia, a brain injury that occurred at birth, about her horse Vianne and their freestyle. “This horse is so special. The medals are icing on the cake. I decided that it’s the last day and I was not going to hold back. She stayed relaxed and with me the whole time. I think we had our best extended trot of the entire competition, so I added it impromptu down the last centerline just for fun. It feels like maybe I’ll wake up from a dream tomorrow.”  

Kate Shoemaker (USA) thanks her mare Vianne after a gold-medal performance. Photo by Kim MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Marie Vonderheyden, former FEI level event rider who suffered a traumatic brain injury in 2015 and returned to the international ring in 2019 as a Grade I para-dressage athlete, said the rhythm of their freestyle music helps them in the test. “The music helps us move as one. This is my first time at a championship, so for me it’s hard to put it into words. It was a fantastic experience.” 

Fiona Howard, Grade II rider who battles dystonia, a neuromuscular disease that causes her muscles to contract and twist involuntarily, said the fatigue was strong on Sunday morning before their test, “I went in for the freestyle and said to Diamond Dunes, ‘I’m gonna need a little more help this time,’ and he was like, ‘Okay, I got you.’ I can just totally trust him. We had a slightly new ending to my freestyle that we debuted today. He was ready for it, and I’m so proud of him. It has been a phenomenal week—it’s incredible to be competing here in Aachen, especially with such a special horse.” 

Rebecca Hart, Grade III rider and five-time Paralympian who won three gold medals with her mare Floratina at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, after their freestyle test in Aachen, “I am so pleased that we came out here and did three very consistent days. Floratina has been perfect—that first section of trot work was on the money every beat. I never thought we were going to make it to Aachen; I thought Paris was going to be our swan song. But at 18, she’s happy and fit, so we will see what the future holds.” 

Chef d’Equipe Michel Assouline on the team’s performance in winning gold with a world-record score, “We all had high expectations. I know that expectations don’t always come to fruition, but this is just incredible. It’s an amazing thing to be here on this incredible stage—the biggest stage in the world for equestrian athletes. For the team to perform as they did, and also set a record, is incredible. It takes a certain kind of village, and we have the best village in the world behind us.” 

Other Highlights of the 2026 FEI World Championships

Beyond the USA’s success, the 2026 FEI World Championships in Aachen were marked by a number of notable achievements. In dressage, the German Team won a 13th gold medal (more team titles than any other country) with Great Britain in silver and Denmark taking bronze. Great Britain’s Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale won their second set of consecutive world titles (individual and freestyle), having also won four years ago in Denmark. And, the most decorated rider of all time, Isabell Werth from Germany, competed in her eighth Championships and earned her 13th and 14th medals (team gold and freestyle bronze).  

Charlotte Fry (GBR) and Glamourdale. Photo by Sarah Miller/MacMillan Photography

In eventing, the British Eventing Team led from start to finish and achieved a record low score (the score reflects penalty points, so lower is better) to take the gold over the German Team in silver. Individually, Germany’s Michael Jung won his fifth World Championships title (this time riding fischerChipmunk FRH), more than any other rider.  

The dynamic duo of Michael Jung (GER) and fischerChipmunk FRH. Photo by Sarah Miller/MacMillan Photography

In vaulting, Germany captured a number of medals. The German Team and the German Squad won gold medals, German female vaulters swept all three individual medals, while the German Pas de Deux pair won bronze, and Bela Lehnen from Germany took bronze in the male individual finals. France, Italy, the Netherlands and Poland rounded out the other vaulting medals.  

The gold-winning German Squad. Photo by Sarah Miller/MacMillan Photography

The second week in driving, Australia’s Boyd Exell won his eighth consecutive Individual World Driving Championship and led his county to team silver. The Netherlands won a record 13th World Driving Team Championship. Belgium earned team bronze.  

Boyd Exell (AUS) won his eighth consecutive Individual World Driving Championship. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Also in week two, Germany earned yet another team gold on home soil, this time in show jumping with Belgium and Great Britain taking silver and bronze, respectively. In the individual jumping finals, which closed out the Championships, Swiss rider Steve Guerdat completed his impressive resume, which already included Olympic and World Cup gold medals, by capturing individual gold with Dynamix de Belheme. 

Steve Guerdat (SUI) captured individual gold with Dynamix de Belheme. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

More About Aachen & the Venue

The venue for the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026 was the Sportpark Soers located on the northeast corner of the city of Aachen, the western-most city in Germany, less than 20 minutes from the borders of Belgium and the Netherlands. On the outskirts of the city is agricultural and parkland, while the city center is called the “Altstadt” (old city) where the UNESCO World Heritage cathedral (Aachener Dom) and historic city building (Rathaus) are located, among other places of interest. The bones of King Charlemagne, the Frankish ruler who reigned from 768-814, are housed in the cathedral.  

Photo by Kim MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Sportpark Soers is a huge multi-sport facility with an office building, large soccer stadium, an ice arena, racquet sports facilities, three equestrian competition stadiums, multiple warm-up arenas, a sprawling eventing cross-country/driving marathon course, and ample stabling to host major championships. A number of equestrian bronzes and fountains decorate the grounds while trellised roses climb the outer walls of the stables, and flower and tree-lined walkways guide visitors from stadium to stadium.  

Aachen last hosted the FEI World Equestrian Games in 2006, but well before that they began staging equestrian sport tournaments in 1924. Over the years, the grounds have been home to no fewer than six World Championships and nine European Championships. Each summer the venue is also the site of the Aachen CHIO equestrian sports tournament, the largest equestrian competition in Germany and affectionately referred to by locals and athletes as “Chee-O”.  

The theme for this year’s World Championships was “Welcome Home” and the phrase was used often in the opening and closing ceremonies as well as on signage around the grounds. The final obstacle on eventing cross-country was the “Welcome Home” jump and the driving teams crossed under the same arch at they finished marathon. 

Olympic/Paralympic Qualification on the Line

It’s worth noting that while these World Championships were a critical first opportunity for countries to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games, the USA did not have that pressure this time because the host nation is automatically qualified to compete. Even without the pressure of Olympic/Paralympic qualification, the U.S. athletes and Chefs d’Equipe stated that they arrived in Aachen ready to give their all for the USA in the 2026 Championships.  

For those countries who did not qualify teams or individuals for LA28 during these World Championships, they still have a chance at their respective continental championships next year. For the Americas (North, Central, South and the Caribbean Islands) those will be the Pan American Games July 23-August 8, 2027, in Lima, Peru. Find more about the 2027 Pan American Games here. 

Synopses of Results by Sport at the 2026 FEI World Championships

Dressage

Ninety-one horse-and-rider combinations representing 34 countries started.

The top three teams were Germany, gold; Great Britain, silver; Denmark, bronze. Individual medalists were Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale (GBR), gold; Catherine Laudrup-Dufour and Mount St. John Freestyle (DEN), silver; Isabell Werth and Wendy de Fontaine (GER), bronze. Highest placed U.S. horse and rider pair was Christian Simonson and Fleau de Baian, 29th in the Grand Prix Special.  

U.S. Dressage Team members were: 

◆ Meagan Davis (Loxahatchee, Fla.) and Toronto Lightfoot, a 2013 Oldenburg gelding (Totilas x Onassis) owned by Scott Durkin, and cared for by Inka Kalberlah 

◆ Ashley Holzer (Wellington, Fla.) and Hawtins San Floriana, a 2012 Hanoverian mare (San Amour I x Florestan I) owned by Dr. Diane Fellows and Ashley Holzer, and cared for by Allie Conti 

◆ Kasey Perry-Glass (Wellington, Fla.) and Heartbeat W.P., a 2012 KWPN gelding (Charmeur x Olympic Ferro) owned by Diane Perry, and cared for by Meghan Laffin  

◆ Christian Simonson (Ventura, Calif.) and Fleau de Baian, a 2010 KWPN stallion (Broere Jazz x Ulft) owned by Zen Elite Equestrian Center, and cared for by Georgia Morga 

Eventing

Eighty-eight competitors from 27 countries competed.  

The top three teams were Great Britain, gold; Germany, silver; USA, bronze. Individual medalists were Michael Jung and fischerChipmunk FRH (GER), gold; Rosalind Canter and Lordships Graffalo (GBR), silver; Laura Collett and London 52 (GBR), bronze.  

U.S. Eventing Team members were:

◆ Will Coleman (Ocala, Fla.) and Diabolo, a 2012 Holsteiner gelding (Diarado x Aljano 2) owned by the Diabolo Group, and cared for by Erin Jarboe 

◆ Phillip Dutton (West Grove, Pa.) and Denim, a 2015 Holsteiner gelding (Dinken x Ibisco) owned by Anne Jones, Ann Lapides, Caroline Moran, and Neill Sites, and cared for by Emma Yanek 

◆ Boyd Martin (Cochranville, Pa.) and Cooley Nutcracker, a 2014 Irish Sport Horse gelding (BMC Tolan R. x Cobra) owned by Liz’s Nutcrackers, and cared for by Stephanie Simpson  

◆ Caroline Pamukcu (Springfield, Pa.) and HSH Blake, a 2015 Irish Sport Horse gelding (BMC Tolan R x Kannan) owned by Mollie Hoff, Sherrie Martin, Caroline Pamukcu, and Deniz Pamukcu, and cared for by Chloe Teahan  

Riding as an individual for the USA was:

◆ Tamie Smith (Murietta, Calif.) and Lillet 3, a 2016 Holsteiner mare (SIEC Livello x Calidio I) owned by Molly and Jennifer Duda, and cared for by Savannah Gwin

Vaulting

Over 200 vaulters and lungers and 93 horses representing 25 countries, plus one neutral athlete, participated in vaulting.  

The top three in team competition (a combination of the scores of an individual female, individual male and squad of six vaulters) were Germany, first; France, second; Italy, third. The top three vaulting squads (six athletes) were Germany, first; France, second; Austria, third. The top three Pas de Deux vaulters (pair of athletes) were Theo Gardies and Noely Thibaudat (FRA), first; Rebecca Greggio and Davide Zanella (ITA), second; Jannik Heiland and Kimberly Hyks (GER), third.  

Medalists in individual male vaulting were Quentin Jabet (FRA), gold; Sam Dos Santos (NED), silver; Bela Lehnen (GER), bronze. Medalists in individual female vaulting were Alice Layher (GER), gold; Kathrin Meyer (GER), silver; Annemie Szemes (GER), bronze.  

Representing the USA in vaulting were: 

Individual Males 

◆ Jace Brooks (Eagle Mountain, Utah) 

◆ Daniel Janes (Standwood, Wa.) 

 Individual Females 

◆ Kylynn Ghafouri (Murrieta, Calif.) 

◆ Caroline Morse (Los Gatos, Calif.) 

◆ Kimberly Palmer (Half Moon Bay, Calif.) 

◆ Traveling Reserve: Tessa Divita (Portola Valley, Calif.) 

 Pas de Deux 

◆ Gracie Griffiths (Elk Ridge, Utah) and Todd Griffiths (Elk Ridge, Utah) 

◆ Daniel Janes (Standwood, Wa.) and Emily Rose (Santa Cruz, Calif.) 

◆ Traveling Reserves: Calle Davis (Spanish Fork, Utah) and Abigail Walker (Mapleton, Utah) 

 Squad – Pacific Coast: 

◆ Francesca Foster (Las Vegas, Nev.)  

◆ Clea Limbrey (Redwood City, Calif.)  

◆ Nina Limbrey (Redwood City, Calif.)  

◆ Emma Milito (Brighton, Colo.)  

◆ Naomi Morgenthaler (Menlo Park, Calif.)  

◆ Emily Rose (Santa Cruz, Calif.)  

◆ Emmalyn Rotter (Redwood City, Calif.)  

◆ Evalyn Rotter (Redwood City, Calif.)  

Driving

Fifty-four drivers from 19 countries competed. The top three countries fielding teams were the Netherlands, gold; Australia, silver; Belgium, bronze. The top three individual medals were Boyd Exell (AUS), gold; Dries Degrieck (BEL), silver; Chester Weber (USA), bronze (he set a new world record for his score in the dressage phase). 

The U.S. Driving Team members were:

◆ James Fairclough (Newton, N.J.)

◆ Taren Lester (Citra, Fla.)

◆ Chester Weber (Ocala, Fla.)

Competing as an individual for the USA was:

◆  Jean Thornton (De Lion Springs, Fla.).  

Para-Dressage

Ninety-two horse-and-rider combinations from 31 nations competed across the five grades of para-dressage. The competitors in each grade completed a Grand Prix Test A to determine individual medals, then a Grand Prix Test B to determine Team Medals. Then, the top eight in each grade returned for the Freestyle on the final day to determine the individual freestyle medals.  

The top three teams were: the USA, gold; Germany, silver; the Netherlands, bronze. Grade I Test A Individual gold and Grade I Freestyle gold, Marie Vonderheyden and Fan Tastico H (USA). Grade II Test A individual gold, Heidemarie Dresing and Poesie 143 (GER). Grade II Freestyle gold, Fiona Howard and Diamond Dunes (USA). Grade III Test A individual gold and Grade III Freestyle gold, Rixt van der Horst and Eisma’s Royal Fonq N.O.P. Grade IV Test A individual gold and Grade IV Freestyle gold, Kate Shoemaker and Vianne (USA). Grade V Test A individual gold, Sophie Wells and MSJ Gold Standard (GBR). Grade V Freestyle gold, Lena Malmström and Fabulous Fidelie (SWE).  

U.S. Para-Dressage Team members were:   

◆ Rebecca Hart (Wellington, Fla.) and Floratina, a 2008 Hanoverian mare (Fidertanz 2 x Rubin Royal OLD), owned by Rowan O’Riley and cared for by Mackenzie Young  

◆ Fiona Howard (Boston, Mass.) and Diamond Dunes, a 2013 Hanoverian gelding (De L’Or x Wolkentanz), owned by Dressage Family LLC and Hof Kasselmann and cared for by Helen Claire McNulty 

◆ Kate Shoemaker (Wellington, Fla.) and Vianne, her own 2016 Hanoverian mare (Vitalis x Ramiro’s Bube), cared for by Jessica Martin-Legg   

◆ Marie Vonderheyden (Wellington, Fla.) and Fan Tastico H, a 2017 Oldenburg gelding (Furstenball OLD x Weltmeyer), owned by Karin Flint and cared for by Rafael Hernandez-Carillo  

Jumping

The most diverse representation of all the sports at the World Championships, there were 146 competitors from 51 nations competing in jumping (31 teams and 25 individuals). Additionally there was an Under 25 German Jumping Championship and an international CSI-Y young rider jumper competition with riders from many nations competing, including J.J. Torano from the USA.  

The top three teams were Germany, gold; Belgium, silver; Great Britain, bronze. The U.S. Team finished fourth. The top three individual medalists were Steve Guerdat and Dynamix de Belheme, SUI, gold; Thibeau Spits and Impress-K van’t Kattenheye Z (BEL), silver; Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda (GBR), bronze.

U.S. Jumping Team members were: 

◆ Katie Dinan (New York, N.Y.) and Out of the Blue SCF, a 2014 Belgian Warmblood mare (Verdi TN x San Patrignano Cassini) owned by Grant Road Partners LLC, and cared for by Lou Beudin  

◆ Lillie Keenan (New York, N.Y.) and Fasther, a 2010 KWPN gelding (Vigo d’Arsouilles STX x Farmer) owned by Chansonette Farm, LLC, and cared for by Anna Halász  

◆ Laura Kraut (Royal Palm Beach, Fla.) and Baloutinue, a 16-year-old Hanoverian gelding (Balou du Roet x Landor S) owned by St. Brides Farm, and cared for by Alex Tyler-Morris  

◆ McLain Ward (Brewster, N.Y.) and High Star Hero, a 2013 Belgian Sport Horse gelding (I Am Moerhoeve’s Star x Darco) owned by Michael Smith, and cared for by Caroline Holmberg and Edwin Soto  

Find a complete set of World Championships results, orders of go and course maps here.

Relive the 2026 FEI Word Championships Action

For die-hard fans, reruns of the entire 2026 World Championships competition can be viewed on demand on FEI TV via the ClipMyHorse platform, although a subscription is required. United States Equestrian Federation members receive a 10 percent discount to ClipMyHorse TV; find more information here. Footage from previous World Championships is also available there. Visit here for more information.  

The FEI YouTube Channel also has a smattering of free-to-view footage from medal- winning performances during the 2026 FEI World Championships. Find the FEI YouTube Channel here. 

Among these YouTube videos are rides by gold-medal winning U.S. para-dressage riders Kate Shoemaker with her mare Vianne, and Marie Vonderheyden with Karin Flint’s gelding Fan Tastico H. U.s. driver Chester Weber’s world-record-setting dressage phase with his stellar four-in-hand of Dutch Harness Horses is also available there.  

Find more news about the U.S. athletes in Aachen here.

The FEI also has a comprehensive 2026 World Championships news page here. 

For more photos, see our Horse Illustrated daily social media features from both weeks of the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026 competition.  

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Photo courtesy US Equestrian

— Edited Press Release | Source: US Equestrian

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The Eventing Team podium at the 2026 FEI World Championships in Aachen. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Ensuring the team’s second-consecutive FEI Eventing World Championships podium finish, Will Coleman (Free Union, Va.) and Diabolo (Diarado x Aljano 2), owned by the Diabolo Group and cared for by Erin Jarboe, also finished the championships as the highest-placed U.S. combination. The impressive pair locked up fourth place overall in the final individual standings and added nothing to their original dressage score of 30.0.

Under the leadership of Chef d’Equipe Leslie Law, the team stayed composed and focused on the technical show jumping course designed by Frank Rothenberger (GER), which would prove to be an influential conclusion to the competition. The winding track had a time allowed of 91 seconds and utilized much of the large grass arena of the main stadium, ultimately shaking up both the team and individual standings.

“We were quietly confident we could pull it off today,” Law commented, regarding the team’s bronze medal performance on the final day of competition. “All three guys rode to the standard we know they can ride to. They are all phenomenal riders in the show jumping phase.”

Coleman commented on the consistent performances of Diabolo, “Dabs”, a 2012 Holsteiner gelding, across all three days of competition, saying, “He was just himself all week—he is such a star. He is incredible. He knows the job and I knew he was going to do everything in his power to leave the rails up.”

Will Coleman and Diabolo on their way to a fourth-place finish, the highest placing of a U.S. horse-and-rider combination. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Coleman went on to express gratitude for his teammates after they moved up from sixth-place after dressage to land on the podium at the end of three intense phases.

“I think it’s a testament to the team. All four of us didn’t get off to the greatest start, but everybody kept a really cool head,” he said. “We kept chipping away throughout the course of the weekend. Our management, Leslie and Karyn [Schuter], exuded a certain amount of confidence and we fed off that. We made each day count as best we could.”

Coleman and Diabolo weren’t the only combination to secure a double-clear round for the Defender U.S. Eventing Team. Boyd Martin (Cochranville, Pa.) and Liz’s Nutcrackers’ Cooley Nutcracker, a 2014 Irish Sport Horse gelding (BMC Tolan R. x Cobra), cared for by Stephanie Simpson, also posted a double clear round in the main stadium to keep the team well in the hunt for a podium finish. Martin and Cooley Nutcracker produced a dressage test which placed them in the middle of the standings at the start of the week, but their clear cross-country performance,  and double clear show jumping round proved to be influential in the rankings. The pair ultimately finished in 13th place, with only added time from their cross-country trip influencing the pair’s original dressage score.

“It was an emotional week to win a medal here in Aachen,” reflected Martin, who has a special connection to Aachen through his wife, Silva, a fellow equestrian athlete hailing from Germany, as well as a nod to Cooley Nutcracker’s former rider, Liz Halliday, who was his teammate in Paris.

Phillip Dutton (West Grove, Pa.) made his return to Aachen for a World Championship 20 years after he competed at the 2006 World Equestrian Games, where he represented Australia at the time. Aboard the 2015 Holsteiner gelding Denim (Dinken x Ibisco) owned by Ann Jones, Ann Lapides, Caroline Moran, and Neill Sites and cared for by Emma Yanek; Dutton showcased his experience and consistency. As the first combination in the order for the team, the pair played a critical role as they entered the electric stadium for their show jumping round, where all three scores produced by the team would count towards the final team score.

“It was a tough track, and the hardest thing is you want to be precise, but then you also have to think about the time allowed,” Dutton explained. “My mindset is obviously I want to be clear for the team, but then at the end of the day try not to overanalyze my round and then hopefully celebrate afterwards.”

Team member Caroline Pamukcu (Springfield, Pa.) and HSH Blake, the 2015 Irish Sport Horse gelding (BMC Tolan R x Kannan) owned by Mollie Hoff, Sherrie Martin, Caroline Pamukcu, and Deniz Pamukcu and cared for by Chloe Teahan, did not compete following their unfortunate elimination on cross-country. She praised her teammates, “they carried the team. They’re unbelievable horsemen and it’s great to watch them and everything they did this week.”

Tamie Smith and Lillet 3 withdrew ahead of the second horse inspection following an impressive trip across the country yesterday. Lillet 3 finished with a badly placed overreach, with Smith and team making the decision to save her for another day.

— Edited Press Release | Source: US Equestrian

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The impeccably-groomed, iconic sports venue is just north of the city of Aachen, the western-most city in Germany, and is located just a few kilometers from both Belgium and the Netherlands. Aachen is not only famous for equestrian sport, but also as the home of the Frankish King Charlemagne who also managed to have himself named a Holy Roman Emperor during his reign from 768-814. He is buried in the cathedral in Aachen.  

The equestrian world is waiting to tune in for the next two weeks to see which horse and rider/driver/vaulter combinations will be crowned World Champions. In addition to bragging rights and national pride, these Championships are a way for countries to qualify individual athletes and teams to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games.  

This year’s FEI Championships include the senior finals in six sports (dressage, driving, eventing, para-dressage, show jumping, vaulting), as well as FEI Competition in youth jumpers (CSI-Y) and Under 25 (CSNU25) jumpers. Opening and Closing Ceremonies, shopping, dining and educational events round out the roster for 2026. 

The Championships unofficially began today with the dressage first horse inspection with all 91 horses from 34 countries passing inspection this morning. Competition officially kicks off tomorrow with day one of two Grand Prix dressage. Later this week, eventing and vaulting competition begin as well. Next week, driving, para-dressage and show jumping are contested.  

Fans can watch all of the action with a paid subscription to ClipMyHorse.TV. US Equestrian members receive a 10 percent discount coupon for ClipMyHorse. There is also some flashback coverage of previous championships currently available to watch for free. Visit clipmyhorse.tv/en_US for more information.  

They may also follow the action via these website links: 

◆ US Equestrian Aachen 2026 Page 

◆ FEI Aachen Page 

◆ Official Aachen 2026 Website 

◆ Orders of Go & Results

U.S. Fields Teams In All Six Disciplines

The Dutta Corp. U.S. Dressage Team for the 2026 FEI Dressage World Championships includes the following combinations in alphabetical order:

◆ ​Meagan Davis (Loxahatchee, Fla.) and Toronto Lightfoot, a 2013 Oldenburg gelding (Totilas x Onassis) owned by Scott Durkin, and cared for by Inka Kalberlah 

◆ Ashley Holzer (Wellington, Fla.) and Hawtins San Floriana, a 2012 Hanoverian mare (San Amour I x Florestan I) owned by Dr. Diane Fellows and Ashley Holzer, and cared for by Allie Conti 

◆ Kasey Perry-Glass (Wellington, Fla.) and Heartbeat W.P.,a 2012 KWPN gelding (Charmeur x Olympic Ferro) owned by Diane Perry, and cared for by Meghan Laffin  

◆ Christian Simonson (Ventura, Calif.) and Fleau de Baian, a 2010 KWPN stallion (Broere Jazz x Ulft) owned by Zen Elite Equestrian Center, and cared for by Georgia Morga 

 The Defender U.S. Eventing Squad for the 2026 FEI Eventing World Championships will include the following combinations:

◆ Will Coleman (Ocala, Fla.) and Diabolo, a 2012 Holsteiner gelding (Diarado x Aljano 2) owned by the Diabolo Group, and cared for by Erin Jarboe

◆ Direct Reserves: Off The Record, a 2009 Irish Sport Horse gelding (VDL Arkansas x ARD Ohio) owned by the Off The Record Syndicate, and Very Dignified, a 2015 Irish Sport Horse mare (Dignified Van’t Zorgvliet x Ricardo Z) owned by Jerome Broussard, Gloria Callen, and Elizabeth Lendrum, both cared for by Erin Jarboe

◆ Phillip Dutton (West Grove, Pa.) and Denim, a 2015 Holsteiner gelding (Dinken x Ibisco) owned by Anne Jones, Ann Lapides, Caroline Moran, and Neill Sites, and cared for by Emma Yanek

◆ Boyd Martin (Cochranville, Pa.) and Cooley Nutcracker, a 2014 Irish Sport Horse gelding (BMC Tolan R. x Cobra) owned by Liz’s Nutcrackers, and cared for by Stephanie Simpson

◆ Caroline Pamukcu (Springfield, Pa.) and HSH Blake, a 2015 Irish Sport Horse gelding (BMC Tolan R x Kannan) owned by Mollie Hoff, Sherrie Martin, Caroline Pamukcu, and Deniz Pamukcu, and cared for by Chloe Teahan

◆ Tamie Smith (Murietta, Calif.) and Lillet 3, a 2016 Holsteiner mare (SIEC Livello x Calidio I) owned by Molly and Jennifer Duda, and cared for by Savannah Gwin

The Icon Global U.S. Jumping Team members are listed in alphabetical order below. 

◆ Natalie Dean (Palo Alto, Calif.) and Mr Boombastic, a 2014 Selle Français gelding (Vigo Cece x Sable Rose) owned by Marigold Sporthorses, LLC and cared for by Luis Guarneros 

◆ Katie Dinan (New York, N.Y.) and Out of the Blue SCF, a 2014 Belgian Warmblood mare (Verdi TN x San Patrignano Cassini) owned by Grant Road Partners LLC, and cared for by Lou Beudin  

◆ Lillie Keenan (New York, N.Y.) and Fasther, a 2010 KWPN gelding (Vigo d’Arsouilles STX x Farmer) owned by Chansonette Farm, LLC, and cared for by Anna Halász  

◆ Laura Kraut (Royal Palm Beach, Fla.) and Bisquetta, a 2014 Zangersheide mare (Bisquet Balou C x Takashi van Berkenbroek) owned by Cherry Knoll Farm, Inc., and cared for by Alex Tyler Morris and Margo Thomas  

◆ McLain Ward (Brewster, N.Y.) and High Star Hero, a 2013 Belgian Sport Horse gelding (I Am Moerhoeve’s Star x Darco) owned by Michael Smith, and cared for by Caroline Holmberg and Edwin Soto  

The U.S. Para Dressage Team will include these athletes:

◆ Rebecca Hart (Wellington, Fla.) and Floratina, a 2008 Hanoverian mare (Fidertanz 2 x Rubin Royal OLD), owned by Rowan O’Riley and cared for by Mackenzie Young  

◆ Fiona Howard (Boston, Mass.) and Diamond Dunes, a 2013 Hanoverian gelding (De L’Or x Wolkentanz), owned by Dressage Family LLC and Hof Kasselmann and cared for by Helen Claire McNulty 

◆ Kate Shoemaker (Wellington, Fla.) and Vianne, her own 2016 Hanoverian mare (Vitalis x Ramiro’s Bube) cared for by Jessica Martin-Legg   

◆ Marie Vonderheyden (Wellington, Fla.) and Fan Tastico H, a 2017 Oldenburg gelding (Furstenball OLD x Weltmeyer), owned by Karin Flint and cared for by Rafael Hernandez-Carillo  

The U.S. Vaulting Team includes the following athletes:

Individual Males 

◆ Jace Brooks (Eagle Mountain, Utah) 

◆ Daniel Janes (Standwood, Wa.) 

Individual Females 

◆ Kylynn Ghafouri (Murrieta, Calif.) 

◆ Caroline Morse (Los Gatos, Calif.) 

◆ Kimberly Palmer (Half Moon Bay, Calif.) 

◆ Traveling Reserve: Tessa Divita (Portola Valley, Calif.) 

Pas de Deux 

◆ Gracie Griffiths (Elk Ridge, Utah) and Todd Griffiths (Elk Ridge, Utah) 

◆ Daniel Janes (Standwood, Wa.) and Emily Rose (Santa Cruz, Calif.) 

◆ Traveling Reserves: Calle Davis (Spanish Fork, Utah) and Abigail Walker (Mapleton, Utah) 

 Squad – Pacific Coast: 

◆ Francesca Foster (Las Vegas, Nev.)  

◆ Clea Limbrey (Redwood City, Calif.)  

◆ Nina Limbrey (Redwood City, Calif.)  

◆ Emma Milito (Brighton, Colo.)  

◆ Naomi Morgenthaler (Menlo Park, Calif.)  

◆ Emily Rose (Santa Cruz, Calif.)  

◆ Emmalyn Rotter (Redwood City, Calif.)  

◆ Evalyn Rotter (Redwood City, Calif.)  

This preview of the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026 is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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“Horse Illustrated and Young Rider are proud to continue participating at BreyerFest,” said Digital Manager Mary Cage. “As magazines dedicated to those who love horses, BreyerFest is the perfect fit for our audience, because we are all there for the same reason — to celebrate the horse.”

Giveaways available to enter at the Horse Illustrated and Young Rider booth include a horseback riding vacation to Unicorn Trails’ Yellowstone Ranch in Wyoming, and a 1-year subscription to Young Rider magazine along with a Young Rider backpack.

If you’re unable to attend BreyerFest, stay tuned to Horse Illustrated and Young Rider socials (@horseillustrated and @youngridermagazine) for live updates on all the fun.

About Our Publications

Horse Illustrated, Young Rider, Western Life Today, HorseIllustrated.com, YoungRider.com, and WesternLifeToday.com are part of the EG Media stable. Horse Illustrated is the magazine for people who are passionate about horses. Each issue offers advice on horse health and care, plus user-friendly training tips for both English and western riders and engaging lifestyle features for horse lovers. Young Rider educates horse-loving kids ages 8-15 with a combination of English and western riding lessons, horse-care hints, and stories about real-life young riders, plus fun, interactive elements. Western Life Today is the premier publication for all things western, from fashion and entertainment to destinations and more. Visit www.horseillustrated.com, www.youngrider.com, and www.westernlifetoday.com to learn more. Contact us at 844-330-6373 or horseillustrated@egmediamags.com.

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Photo courtesy Calgary Stampede

Full-sized horses not your thing? The Canadian National Miniature Horse Show offers halter, driving, jumping and obstacle competition. But if you prefer speed over size, don’t miss the Calgary Stampede Cowboy Up Challenge. This western class focuses on speed: A rider must complete multiple obstacle challenges that showcase the partnership and trust between horse and rider.

The Calgary Stampede is notorious for its rodeo, which begins every afternoon at 1:30 p.m. and builds toward the finale: Showdown Sunday. With competition in barrel racing, bull riding, tie-down roping, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc and bareback riding, over $2.17 million in prize money will be awarded.

Horses aren’t the only thing to do at the Stampede: Live music plays every night on a plethora of stages, parades keep the fun flowing and motocross, family friendly entertainment and so much more awaits!

Learn more at calgarystampede.com.

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A crowd lines the hillsides overlooking Georgia International Horse Park’s Grand Prix Arena. It’s a steamy evening on July 5th, 2024, at the Georgia Quarter Horse Association’s Big A/Stars & Stripes Circuit, and feet, some clad in flip-flops and others still sporting boots with spurs that sing with every kick, dangle from the arena wall. A diverse sea of faces look out excitedly over the hallowed sand where Olympic dreams were made during the 1996 summer games in Atlanta.

A hush falls over the crowd, and both cowboy hats and caps proudly displaying military branches of service are placed over hearts as a cowboy on a striking palomino enters the stadium. He carries an American flag, familiar colors dancing proudly in the evening light as the golden horse’s gait quickens with the building climax of Johnny Cash’s “Ragged Old Flag,” poignant words shimmering across the summer breeze.

There’s an almost electric feeling of pride blanketing the stadium when the cowboy stops to present the colors. It’s a fitting opening for one sector of the horse industry’s tribute to the men and women of our armed forces: the Heroes Horsemanship Challenge (HHC).

The event opened with a cowboy carrying the American flag to Johnny Cash’s song “Ragged Old Flag” aboard an eye-catching palomino. Photo by Cody Parmenter Photography

How It Started

Inspired by the Heroes on Horseback Challenge held at the All-American Quarter Horse Congress, North Carolina horse trainer Jake Hartman and his wife Ali were drawn to the idea of creating a similar event to honor our country’s service members. Former Army Ranger Ryan Bandy’s magnetic personality while offering encouragement to his fellow competitors at the Congress Challenge led Jake and Ali to conversation with Brandy and his wife, Kaylee, who has served almost 20 years in the Army herself.

Together, the couples decided to create a similar event that would level the playing field. Instead of running it as a pleasure class (where the horses are being judged), they chose to score participants on a horsemanship pattern.

This put the focus on the performance of the riders rather than relying solely on the quality of the horse, allowing more riders to be able to compete with a smaller number of horses needed to accommodate them. The first competition was held in 2022, and annually since then.

Camaraderie & Competition

The Heroes Horsemanship Challenge is a team event open to both past and current members of the armed forces and their family members. Riders of all skill levels are encouraged to participate, with an attempt being made to evenly weight the combined experience level of each team.

When competition day arrives, each team is paired with a professional horse trainer, and they begin their preparation with a group clinic to go over the basics of the horsemanship class and the pattern they will be riding.

Each team is made up of past and current armed service members and their families, then paired with a professional horse trainer. Teams are evenly weighted by riding experience. Photo by Heather Glazer

From there, it’s time for the teams and their trainers to get down to business. The remainder of the afternoon leading up to showtime is spent meeting their mounts and learning how to translate the dots and dashes on their pattern sheet into a display of communication with their equine partners.

Though the spirit of competition is decidedly in the air, the opportunity for fellowship HHC provides for service members and their families is profoundly valuable. The military lifestyle comes with its own unique challenges, and the events surrounding competition day provide a venue for a wider portion of that community to come together. This can be especially beneficial for those who are no longer active duty.

“Events like HHC are so important because they provide validation,” says Army Lieutenant Colonel Kaylee Bandy. “Too often, our veterans feel stripped of their identity when they transition out of the military, and this same sense of loss affects their families as well. Military service provides deep personal connections and mutual understanding through experience. Much of that can feel lost to an entire family when a Warfighter transitions out of uniform—and the emotional, psychological, and physical effects can feel isolating and overwhelming. Programs like HHC are so much more than a head nod to our Warfighters. They’re platforms for genuine connection, shared experience, and public celebration of those who volunteer to keep our nation safe.”

Family members of veterans and active service members are invited to participate as well. Photo by Heather Glazer

Joe Conwell, a 2024 HHC competitor who spent 28 years in the Army National Guard, agrees.

“It’s a day out with people going through (or having gone through) similar situations in life, and a chance to have discussions, cheer each other on, and see the smiles on each other’s faces,” he says. “The camaraderie, competition, and support touch so many different aspects of what everybody’s going through and gives them a positive push to keep moving forward.”

Healing Through Horses

Although there are many programs geared toward honoring and strengthening the mental and physical wellbeing of our active duty military members and veterans, there’s something special about those like HHC that harness the therapeutic power of riding and interacting with horses.

“Horses hold no judgment, no preconceived notion,” says Bandy. “They don’t know their rider’s history of trauma, failures, guilt, anxiety, or fears. The relationship between our participants and their horses is unflawed and genuine.” 

Multi-year HHC competitor and 25-year retired Chief Navy Diver Michael Suzuki had very little experience with horses when he was introduced to the event by his niece. Though he was nervous during the first ride, Suzuki quickly learned that working through the pattern with his equine partner was a welcome escape. 

“When I ride, I’m not thinking about anything else, just me and that horse,” he says. “I’m still new at it, so it takes my full concentration—but that’s a good thing. It’s a stress, but a good stress.”

Retired Chief Navy Diver Michael Suzuki had very little experience with horses when he was introduced to the event by his niece. Photo by Cody Parmenter Photography

That mental focus is especially important for service men and women who have spent time on the frontlines.

“Someone who’s been in the combat zone basically remembers things from it almost 24 hours a day,” says Conwell. “When you’re multitasking and concentrating on getting a horse through the pattern, it puts that external input from your past to the side. It releases your brain for the amount of time you’re communicating with the horse.”

Teamwork is the foundation of many duties and operations within each branch of the military, so participants also find they’re able to apply the principles they use to tackle work-related tasks to something that feels much lighter.

“You’re doing the same process of working together to come up with an outcome, but it has absolutely nothing to do with military green suits, guns, and all of that,” says Conwell. “It relieves you of the military output, but you’re still doing the same things you’re trained to do.”

Completing their pattern in front of the cheering crowd also instills a sense of pride, accomplishment, and confidence in participants.

“Getting out there and doing their best on a regional stage, surrounded by seasoned professionals and industry champions, infuses our riders with confidence and satisfaction,” says Bandy. “They dismount holding their head a little higher and standing a little taller. They prove to themselves that they can do hard things, and that they’re worthy and deserving of joy and hope after hardship.”

Assembling the Ranks

Many members of the equine industry come together to make the Heroes Horsemanship Challenge happen, including professional trainers, the owners of the horses used in competition, and the Georgia Quarter Horse Association.

Various sponsors also graciously give monetarily or donate auction items to help cover the cost of a dinner for those in attendance, Harris jackets for every participant, and prizes such as belt buckles for the winners. Remaining proceeds from the event are given directly to Folds of Honor, an organization that provides scholarships to families of fallen and disabled service members and first responders.

Members of the winning team are presented with a prize. Photo by Heather Glazer

For the trainers who coach each team, the experience has proven to be both humbling and rewarding.

“All of the trainers have a good time,” says professional horseman Carey Ready, whose team won the 2024 HHC. “It was a time to let down in the middle of a busy show—a fun thing. So it’s good for us too. It really helps us keep perspective in life, not just the horse industry.”

Trainer Carey Ready coached the winning team in 2024. Photo by Heather Glazer

“It’s really humbling for us,” adds trainer Duke Williams. “This is something I would do every time I possibly could because it makes us feel a little better too. That we did something, gave something. At the end of the day, it’s still not enough.”

The positive aspects of events like HHC aren’t limited to what the participants glean from taking part. As service members and their families gather each year, the horse industry inevitably adds new faces to its ranks. Several trainers recalled team members becoming new horse owners after their experience with HHC, and most participants feel they’ve found a new community to be a part of.

“After I participated, it changed my whole perspective,” says Suzuki. “It made me more interested in the horse industry and learning more about it. Now when I hear ‘horses,’ I talk too.”

2024 competitor Joe Conwell (in red) presented event coordinator Jake Hartman with a flag flown while he was serving in Kuwait. Photo by Heather Glazer

In future, the HHC team hopes to add an additional event at a different show and venue so they can honor even more individuals and their families who have made sacrifices to protect and serve our country.

“As veterans and members of the horse industry, it’s a privilege to be able to pair our patriotism with our passion while serving our brothers and sisters,” says Bandy. “They’re the protectors of our peace and represent less than 1 percent of the American population. It’s not lost on the HHC team that the sovereignty of the United States was mostly won on horseback. This is truly a ‘thank you’ to both horse and rider.”

Visit heroeshorsemanshipchallenge.com for more information about the Heroes Horsemanship Challenge, how to become a participant, and sponsorship opportunities.

This article appeared in the May/June 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post The Heroes Horsemanship Challenge appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The 2026 FEI World Championships will be hosted in Aachen from August 11–23, 2026, featuring six major equestrian disciplines: show jumping, dressage, para dressage, eventing, driving, and vaulting. This prestigious event, held at the historical Aachener Soers grounds, will showcase world-class sport, and will attract around 350,000 spectators. 

Show jumping at the CHIO Aachen. Photo by Amber Heintzberger

In the summer of 2024, my horse-obsessed, then 15-year-old daughter Emily and I ventured to Aachen to experience the CHIO. We were already in Germany visiting my in-laws near Warendorf, and I had attended the CHIO a number of times as an equine journalist and wanted Emily to see behind the scenes at one of the greatest horse events in the world.  

We stayed at the home of longtime friends who live in Aachen and were incredibly gracious hosts. My friend Heidi lives upstairs from her mom, Gerlinde, who put us up in a spare bedroom and laid out a spread of fresh baked goods from the bakery, along with coffee, cheese and fruit every morning before we set off for the Soers. 

We arrived on Thursday afternoon, and with cameras and notebooks in hand, we parked our rental car, collected our media credentials and scoped out the media center. Emily was excited about the fact that Lindt, a major sponsor of the CHIO, provides an abundant supply of chocolate to keep members of the media happy. She was also starstruck when we met Esme Higgs, who was working on social media for the event. 

First we set off to explore the competition grounds. We briefly browsed the trade fair, had a little snack of pommes frites (delicious French fries), and then headed for the main stadium. One of the original structures at the Soers, the stadium was expanded for the World Equestrian Games in 2006. The atmosphere is awe-inspiring, and we had arrived in time so that we could photograph the Nations Cup from inside the stadium. Photographers must stay in the photo pens, and vying for a good spot in the pack of photographers can be a challenge during the more popular events. Once you’re in place, you’re also committed to staying in the pen for the duration of the evening, so it’s best to visit the restrooms and have a snack and a drink handy. 

Standing in the middle of the stadium, under the bright lights, with the stands filled with spectators, right in the middle of the action, is an unforgettable experience. Some of the world’s best horses and riders galloping and jumping huge fences, right up close, and the entire stadium vibrating with rhythmic applause of thousands of fans, is electrifying to the senses. Team Ireland won the Nations Cup and their celebratory mood reverberated through the grounds as spectators headed to the party tents to celebrate with beer and champagne. 

It was a late night, but we were back early the next morning to catch the eventing dressage, with eventing show jumping taking place later that afternoon. Once again we positioned ourselves in the stadium for some good photo opportunities, chatting with fellow eventing journalist Tilly Berendt, who was over from the U.K., between horses. After years of working in equestrian journalism, the chance to catch up with colleagues is always a highlight of attending major competitions. Photographers Shannon Brinkman, official photographer of the US Equestrian Team, and her daughter Roya, and New Zealander Libby Law were just a couple of the other friend/colleagues that I enjoyed seeing over the weekend. 

Victory gallop at the CHIO Aachen. Photo by Amber Heintzberger

I also wanted to show Emily around the city of Aachen, so we left shortly after the eventing wrapped up and found dinner at a restaurant in one of the cobbled alleys in the pedestrian zone near the Aachen Cathedral, a World Heritage site. Shops around the city decorate their windows with CHIO-themes and we enjoyed looking at these as we wandered around. We also stopped in the Nobis shop for a little bag of Aachener Printen, a sweet and spicy gingerbread-type cookie that is a local specialty. 

Saturday for us meant an early morning of Grand Prix dressage, followed by one of the highlights of the weekend, the eventing cross-country. We wandered around the course, watching some of the more interesting combinations including the main water complex, and nibbling from a bag of assorted Haribo gummy candies from one of the vendors on course. We finished up inside the stadium to capture the excitement of the top finishers clearing the final fence and crossing the finish line — a dramatic photo opportunity as this was the final phase of the event. 

The individual win went to Germany’s Julia Krajewski riding Nickel 21 and the cheers from the home crowd reverberated through the stadium as Krajewski took a victory canter. Great Britain won the team competition followed by the USA and Ireland, respectively.  

Of course we also had to have a wander through the trade fair, where many high-end brands of tack and equestrian apparel are available at special prices. Emily was on a mission to buy a certain popular brand of sun shirt, and I bought a few gifts for friends back home. We met up with Emily’s cousin Jana, who proudly showed off her new collection of matching saddle pads and ear bonnets.  

Saturday evening is a popular time for the general public to visit the CHIO to shop, partake in food and beverages, and socialize. The party atmosphere was fun, but we opted for a quiet dinner at a Chinese restaurant in downtown Aachen with our hosts. You can only handle so much excitement before you start to run out of steam, and we wanted to have a good night of sleep so that we could enjoy the final day of the CHIO. 

On Sunday morning we headed to the Deutsche Bank stadium for the final dressage competition. The Lindt Prize, the Grand Prix Freestyle, was won by the Queen of Aachen herself, Isabell Werth riding Wendy de Fontaine. It was Werth’s 15th time winning this class and the crowd was appropriately enthusiastic during her victory gallop.  

Isabell Werth salutes the crowd aboard Wendy de Fontaine after winning the Lindt Prize, the Grand Prix Freestyle. This marked Werth’s 15th time winning this class. Photo by Amber Heintzberger

Following the elaborate prize-giving, we once again headed to the main stadium. The highlight of the final day is the Grand Prix Show Jumping competition, part of the Rolex Grand Slam that also includes Spruce Meadows, Geneva and ‘S-Hertogenbosch.  

The Grand Prix was not only one of the Majors of the Grand Slam, but a chance for some of the best riders in the world to fine-tune their performances in the lead-up to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The year marked a number of momentous anniversaries for the iconic equestrian venue, as they not only celebrated 100 years of history, but also 25 years with Rolex as the main sponsor.   

Starting in reverse order based on the results from the first round, American rider McLain Ward, who was tenth to go, jumped the first double clear of the class and put pressure on the remaining riders in the second round. Out of those riders, only Switzerland’s Martin Fuchs, Germany’s André Thieme – the individual 2021 FEI Jumping European Champion – and World No. 10 Richard Vogel progressed to the jump-off. 

Ward, the two-time Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major winner, jumped around the shortened course clear in a time of 41.02 seconds. Fuchs was almost two seconds faster, but it was not meant to be as the penultimate fence fell. The crowds exploded with cheers as Thieme then took the lead in a time of 39.77 seconds, with just one left to go. It looked as if the final competitor, Vogel, would claim his second Major as he crossed the line over one second faster than his fellow citizen, but heartbreakingly the final fence fell, handing the victory to Thieme. 

André Thieme celebrates the win. Photo by Amber Heintzberger

The nail-biting competition was followed by the Farewell of Nations, when competitors representing their various countries and disciplines all come together in the main stadium for a gigantic farewell party. Every year the CHIO chooses a partner country and bases the theme of their festivities around that country’s culture. The 2024 partner country happened to be the USA, and the theme featured heavily in the opening ceremonies, which we watched on TV before our arrival at the show.  

The closing ceremonies feature all of the nations that participated in the competition, with participants from every sport taking part. Show jumpers, dressage horses, eventers, and even the four-in-hand driving competitors’ parade around the arena with their riders and drivers, with a flag bearer leading the way and competitors waving white handkerchiefs, a tradition that includes spectators, who wave back from the grandstands to the sounds of the German folk song “Muss I denn zum Städtele hinaus.” Another CHIO concluded, and Emily and I wandered around the quiet grounds one last time, stopping for a celebratory toast before heading home. Because shops in Germany are closed on Sundays, I asked one of the vendors if I could purchase a small potted flower to give to our hosts, and he kindly gave it to me with a smile.  

The crowd celebrates the Farewell of Nations. Photo by Amber Heintzberger

Because it was a late evening, we stayed over one more night and enjoyed one final wonderful breakfast from the local bakery, and had a short walk around the neighborhood. On the way back to the Warendorf area we stopped in Cologne to stretch our legs and took a short tour of the cathedral there. It was an exciting week and we were left happy to have enjoyed so much top equestrian sport and German culture. 

A Visitors’ Guide to the CHIO Achen

The CHIO Aachen is a huge destination event, and accommodations book quickly. An American friend who lives in Germany is planning to attend in the summer of 2026 and accommodations were already booked up months in advance. She was able to find an Airbnb in the Belgian countryside, driving distance from the Soers — the showgrounds where the CHIO is held.  

Purchase your tickets in advance. The really popular events sell out — yes, even dressage — and if there’s an event you really want to see, you’ll need to reserve tickets sooner than later.  

Wear comfortable clothing. People do tend to dress nicely for a day out at the CHIO, but you want to make sure that you are comfortable to walk long distances. Dressing in layers is also recommended — even summertime can be rainy and chilly, and while it’s fun to shop for new clothes in the extensive trade fair, it’s less fun to sit in the stands freezing and then spend a lot of money on a sweatshirt because it’s the first thing you can grab during a 15-minute break. Ask me how I know!  

Bring your appetite. The food offerings at the CHIO are extensive, and you can find everything from sushi and Thai stir fry to traditional German fare like currywurst, pretzels, pommes frites (French fries), and sandwiches. Alcohol flows freely in the evenings — be sure to return your glass to get a refund of the small deposit — and there are also plenty of non-alcoholic options. The riders tend to congregate at the Riders’ Bar on the ground floor of the grandstand near the gate to the main stadium. You’re also sure to spot a few familiar, famous equestrians strolling around the grounds.  

Horses have the right-of-way. While there is traffic control, be alert that pedestrians need to stop and wait for horses crossing at junctions of the horse paths and pedestrian walkways.  

Bring your spending money. The trade fair is not to be taken for granted: from apparel and tack to housewares and gift items, to luxury horse boxes and vehicles, the trade fair boasts something for everyone, on every budget. And be sure to grab a few souvenirs from the gift shop — you’ll really impress your friends at the barn when you show up wearing a shirt or baseball cap from Aachen. 

Pace yourself. With so much to see and do, you might be tempted to try to do it all. Better to pick a few special events and enjoy those, and give yourself time for the trade fair, food vendors, and just to stroll around and soak up the atmosphere. There are also a number of entertaining performances in the main stadium featuring different breeds, demonstrations of various horses, and costumed horses and riders performing purely for entertainment. 

This article about a visit to the CHIO Aachen is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Photo by Wirestock/Adobe Stock

Do you have your Derby horse yet? If not, join us as we take a look at each horse in the 2026 Kentucky Derby field so that you can confidently make your pick. Listed below is an overview of each horse entered to run in this year’s Run for the Roses (in post position order), along with quick information regarding their connections, morning line odds, and race record.

The 2025 Kentucky Derby Field

1. Renegade (4-1)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Jockey: Irad Ortiz, Jr.
Owner: Robert Low, Lawana Low, and Repole Stable
Race Record: 5 starts: 2 wins, 2 seconds, 1 third
Career Earnings: $1,031,500

Although Renegade is the morning-line favorite, the rail is just about the last post position anyone could want for a field as big as the Kentucky Derby. Runaway winner of the Arkansas Derby (G1) last out, Renegade seems to have blossomed into an immensely talented 3-year-old. As long as he gets a smooth break and doesn’t have too much traffic trouble with his rail post, he has the right running style for the Derby and certainly has the talent to best this field. But he will have a lot to overcome with this post position.

2. Albus (30-1)
Trainer: Riley Mott
Jockey: Manuel Franco
Owner: Pin Oak Stud LLC
Race Record: 4 starts: 2 wins, 0 seconds, 1 third
Career Earnings: $436,288

The Derby may appear to be a big leap for Albus, but that’s nothing new for him, as he won the Wood Memorial Stakes (G2) just after breaking his maiden in impressive fashion. He also is versatile about his running style, which is a huge advantage in a race like the Derby where things may play out entirely different than your average race. This will obviously require Albus’s best effort yet, but he may be worth a look as your long shot.

3. Intrepido (50-1)
Trainer: Jeff Mullins
Jockey: Hector Isaac Berrios
Owner: Dutch Girl Holdings LLC and Irving Ventures LLC
Race Record: 6 starts: 2 wins, 1 second, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $342,800

Intrepido hasn’t won a race since the American Pharoah Stakes (G1) as a 2-year-old last October; in fact the only time he’s finished in the money was two starts back with a second-place finish in the Robert B. Lewis Stakes (G3). It would be quite the surprise if this colt managed a big run in the Derby.

4. Litmus Test (30-1)
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Jockey: Martin Garcia
Owner: SF Racing, LLC, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables, LLC, Stonestreet Stables, LLC, et. al.
Race Record: 7 starts: 2 wins, 0 seconds, 2 thirds
Career Earnings: $477,688

Another horse that hasn’t won since he was a 2-year-old, Litmus Test was a distant seventh last out in the Arkansas Derby (G1) against several of these rivals. This is another horse that would be quite the upset.

5. Right to Party: SCRATCHED

6. Commandment (6-1)
Trainer: Brad Cox
Jockey: Luis Saez
Owner: Wathnan Racing
Race Record: 5 starts: 4 wins, 0 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $1,017,339

Commandment has some of the lowest morning-line odds in the field for good reason. The son of Into Mischief has won four straight races, including the Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) and Florida Derby (G1). He also already has a win over the Churchill Downs surface, and has a flexible running style that should benefit him in the Derby. Commandment may be the most dangerous horse in the race.

7. Danon Bourbon (20-1)
Trainer: Manabu Ikezoe
Jockey: Atsuya Nishimura
Owner: Danox Co. Ltd.
Race Record: 3 starts: 3 wins, 0 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $222,762

One of two Japanese horses in the Derby, Danon Bourbon is undefeated in three starts — which he’s won by a combined 18 1/2 lengths. It’s always a significant ask for an international horse to overcome the hurdles of traveling this far and running on a new surface — and in a new direction, for that matter. However, Japan came very close to winning this race with Forever Young in 2024, a horse that has continued to prove his prowess on United States soil. It’s quite the unknown if Danon Bourbon is anywhere near Forever Young’s level, but he’s clearly talented and deserves the chance to prove himself.

8. So Happy (15-1)
Trainer: Mark Glatt
Jockey: Mike Smith
Owner: Norman Stables LLC and Saints or Sinners
Race Record: 4 starts: 3 wins, 0 seconds, 1 third
Career Earnings: $480,000

Winner of the Santa Anita Derby (G1), So Happy seems like the strongest threat from California. He turned in a career-best speed figure in that effort, and if he runs to that level, that puts him with the best of them here. He has some questions to answer, but So Happy is certainly worth a look.

9. The Puma: SCRATCHED

10. Wonder Dean (30-1)
Trainer: Daisuke Takayanagi
Jockey: Ryusei Sakai
Owner: Yoshinari Yamamoto
Race Record: 6 starts: 2 wins, 2 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $770,541

The other Japanese horse in the race, Wonder Dean enters here off a strong win in the UAE Derby (G2). He’s not been quite as dominant as Danon Bourbon, but he has traveled internationally (and raced counter-clockwise) and won. One thing is for sure about Wonder Dean: the 1 1/4-mile distance won’t be an issue.

11. Incredibolt (20-1)
Trainer: Riley Mott
Jockey: Jaime Torres
Owner: Pin Oak Stud LLC
Race Record: 5 starts: 3 wins, 0 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $498,681

A 4-length winner of the Virginia Derby in his most recent start, Incredibolt won two races at Churchill Downs as a 2-year-old, including the Street Sense Stakes (G3). However, his speed figures are quite a bit lower than most other horses here, so it would require Incredibolt’s strongest effort yet so surpass this field.

12. Chief Wallabee (8-1)
Trainer: Bill Mott
Jockey: Junior Alvarado
Owner: Mike Ball and Katherine Ball
Race Record: 3 starts: 1 win, 1 second, 1 third
Career Earnings: $216,600

Chief Wallabee has caught the attention of many with his morning training, appearing to be rounding into top form. Though he has only won at the maiden level, he’s never been more than a half-length behind the winner — an impressive feat considering his only two other races are the Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) and Florida Derby (G1). However, he finished behind Commandment in both, so it would be impressive for him to get around that colt.

13. Silent Tactic: SCRATCHED

14. Potente (20-1)
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Jockey: Juan Hernandez
Owner: Speedway Stables LLC
Race Record: 3 starts: 2 wins, 1 second, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $262,000

Though Potente won the San Felipe Stakes (G2) two back, he was swallowed up in the stretch of the Santa Anita Derby (G1) by So Happy. He may be bred for the distance, but does he want it?

15. Emerging Market (15-1)
Trainer: Chad Brown
Jockey: Flavien Prat
Owner: Klaravich Stables, Inc.
Race Record: 2 starts: 2 wins, 0 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $618,880

Although he’s only raced twice, Emerging Market has won both of those starts, including the Louisiana Derby (G2). Without a doubt, he has the pedigree to get the Derby distance, is training remarkably well, and he has talent. That said, the Kentucky Derby against 19 of the other best 3-year-olds in the country is a big ask for a horse in just his third start.

16. Pavlovian (30-1)
Trainer: Doug O’Neill
Jockey: Edwin Maldonado
Owner: Reddam Racing LLC
Race Record: 10 starts: 2 wins, 4 seconds, 1 third
Career Earnings: $613,450

Pavlovian may be by far the most experienced horse in the field with 10 starts, but he has won only once and has primarily raced against state-bred company. He has no graded stakes wins to his credit  — though he was just a head behind when second in the Louisiana Derby (G2) behind Emerging Market. Pavlovian appears to be outclassed on paper.

17. Six Speed (50-1)
Trainer: Bhupat Seemar
Jockey: Brian Hernandez, Jr.
Owner: Brunetti Dugan Stables, Black Type Thoroughbreds, Steve Adkisson, Swinbank Stables
Race Record: 5 starts: 3 wins, 1 second, 1 third
Career Earnings: $402,183

Dubai-based Six Speed was soundly defeated by Wonder Dean in the UAE Derby (G2), though he himself had been a strong group stakes winner prior to then. That loss also came after a bit of time off, but Six Speed would be a huge upset here.

18. Further Ado (6-1)
Trainer: Brad Cox
Jockey: John Velazquez
Owner: Spendthrift Farm LLC
Race Record: 6 starts: 3 wins, 1 second, 1 third
Career Earnings: $1,146,328

An impressive 11-length winner of the Blue Grass Stakes (G1) last out, Further Ado is no stranger to a romp. He broke his maiden at Keeneland by an incredible 20 lengths as a 2-year-old, just before winning the Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes (G2) at Churchill Downs. Like his stablemate Commandment, Further Ado is one of the most formidable horses in the Derby.

19. Golden Tempo (30-1)
Trainer: Cherie DeVaux
Jockey: Jose Ortiz
Owner: Phipps Stable and St. Elias Stable
Race Record: 4 starts: 2 wins, 0 seconds, 2 thirds
Career Earnings: $333,000

Golden Tempo enters here off two losses — most recently third in the Louisiana Derby (G2) behind Emerging Market and Pavlovian — but he was previously the winner of the Lecomte Stakes (G3). His speed figures are quite lower than most rivals here, and he looks likely to go off at pretty high odds.

20. Fulleffort: SCRATCHED

21. Great White (50-1)
Trainer: John Ennis
Jockey: Alex Achard
Owner: Three Chimneys Farm and John Ennis
Race Record: 4 starts: 2 wins, 0 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $202,495

Despite enough scratches to draw in, Great White will likely go off as one of the longest shots in the field. He was a distant fifth behind Further Ado in the Blue Grass Stakes (G1), and has otherwise not faced the strongest competition.

22. Ocelli (50-1)
Trainer: D. Whitworth Beckman
Jockey: Joe Ramos
Owner: Ashley Durr, Anthony Tate and Front Page Equestrian, LLC
Race Record: 6 starts: 0 wins, 1 second, 3 thirds
Career Earnings: $109,800

Because of two scratches, Ocelli has also made it into the field, but he’s likely to see extremely high odds. The colt has never won a race in six starts, and has lost to several of the Derby runners.

23. Robusta (50-1)
Trainer: Doug O’Neill
Jockey: Cristian Torres
Owner: Calumet Farm
Race Record: 5 starts: 1 win, 1 second, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $83,500

Robusta was a soundly defeated seventh in the Santa Anita Derby (G1). He’s drawn in with the third scratch, but it’s unlikely for him to make much of a dent.

Let us know in the comments here, or on Facebook (Horse Illustrated) or Instagram (@horseillustrated) who your 2026 Kentucky Derby pick is! Click here to subscribe to Horse Illustrated.

The post 2026 Kentucky Derby: Make Your Pick appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Another day of brilliant sun made for a lovely picture as the 23 riders remaining in the 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5* division attempted to keep the poles up. The time was very doable, with eight pairs jumping double clear.  

It came down to a nail-biter indeed, with 2024’s CCI4*-winning pair, Will Coleman (USA) and 14-year-old Hosteiner gelding Diabolo adding just 0.8 time faults during their show jumping round to guarantee no worse than second on a 28.1.  

Overnight leader Monica Spencer (NZL) and the 15-year-old New Zealand-bred Thoroughbred gelding Artist were sitting on a 22.3, with one rail and some time in hand. But it was not to be their day; in the end, three very expensive rails down knocked them to seventh place, ensuring the first Kentucky 5* win for an American since Tamie Smith in 2023. (The winner receives $130,000, while seventh place receives $10,000.) 

“This is the event that every American eventing rider wants to win,” said Coleman. “It’s my favorite place to ride in the whole world. I’ve dreamed about it, but now that it’s here, it feels surreal. I’m blessed to ride this horse and have the people who made this possible for someone like me—my family, the owners, coaches. So many people have been a part of this horse’s journey.” 

Will Coleman and Diabolo clear the final jump of the 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. Photo by Mary Cage

Coleman became just the second rider to have won both the Cosequin Lexington CCI4* and Defender Kentucky CCI5* — the first having been Tamie Smith earlier in the day when she won the CCI4*. But having won the CCI4* with Diabolo previously, he became the first rider to win both divisions on the same horse.

“It is a surreal feeling, something I think we all dream about,” Coleman said. It’s one of the hardest things to do — certainly one of the hardest in equestrian sport. I sort of feel like we all deserve the win … Today I feel extremely lucky.”

Will Coleman and Diabolo on their victory lap. Photo by Mary Cage

Moving up from third to second was another American rider, Caroline Pamukcu, on 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding HSH Blake. They went double-clear to finish on a score of 28.6. The pair previously competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing 36th individually.  

“Blake today really helped me a lot — all the kudos goes to him,” Pamukcu said. “He’s such a special horse and really made up everywhere that I lacked.”

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake had a double-clear round. Photo by Mary Cage

British rider David Doel moved from fourth to third, also with a double-clear round, riding 15-year-old KWPN gelding Galileo Nieuwmoed (sounds like “new mood”). This horse was primed for such a performance, having finished on the podium twice in his 12 previous CCI5* events on both sides of the Atlantic.  

“It’s been absolutely magic,” Doel reflected. “I’m very lucky; I’ve got a very cool horse. As a team we came together, learned from past mistakes. He gave me a super ride all three days.”

David Doel and Galileo Nieuwmoed moved up into third after a double-clear round in the show jumping phase. Photo by Mary Cage

Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S 

In the final phase of the CCI4*, overnight leader Tamie Smith (USA) entered the arena aboard Lillet 3 with a rail and some time cushion in hand, but as it turned out, she didn’t need it. Smith was the only rider to make the show jumping optimum time out of 31 horses in the division, keeping a cool head under pressure—not surprising, given her history in the CCI5*. 

Speaking on the optimum time in the final phase, Smith said, “It didn’t seem achievable, but [Lillet] is so cool. She’s so fast.” 

Tamie Smith and Lillet 3 on their way to the CCI4* win. Photo by Mary Cage

This also moves Smith into the lead of the recently launched US Equestrian Open standings, which offers $1 million in prize money across a series of annual events.  

“It’s new to our country; I went into it thinking I might have a shot,” she said. “You just hope that it goes your way.” 

It’s now just a matter of waiting 361 days until the start of 2027’s “Best Weekend All Year.” We’ll see you there! 

2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*-L Final Results

1. William Coleman (USA) and Diabolo (28.1)
2. Caroline Pamukcu (USA) and HSH Blake (28.6)
3. David Doel (GBR) and Galileo Nieuwmoed (30.8)
4. Tim Price (NZL) and Vitali (33.0)
5. Tom McEwen (GBR) and Brookfield Quality (33.1)
6. Boyd Martin (USA) and Commando 3 (34.2)
7. Monica Spencer (NZL) and Artist (36.7)
8. Phillip Dutton (USA) and Possante (37.7)
9. Emily Hamel (USA) and Corvett (40.9)
10. Sophia Hill (AUS) and Humble Glory (41.1)

2026 Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S Final Results

1. Tamie Smith (USA) and Lillet 3 (31.3)
2. Will Coleman (USA) and Very Dignified (37.4)
3. Mia Farley (USA) and Invictus (38.3)
4. Sharon White (USA) and Claus 63 (41.3)
5. Will Coleman (USA) and Fahrenheit Addict (43.3)
6. Isabelle Bosley (USA) and Conner (44.8)
7. Isabelle Cook (GBR) and Cymoon “F” Z (48.1)
8. Sydney Elliott (USA) and QC Diamantaire (48.7)
9. Dan Kreitl (USA) and Carmango (49.2)
10. Lauren Nicholson (USA) and Landmark’s Jungle’s Gold (50.0)

Find all of our coverage on our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event landing page.

Thanks to CareCredit for our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event coverage.

The post 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event Results and Recap: Will Coleman & Diabolo Win for USA appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.