The most thrilling day of the FEI European Championship for Juniors and Young Riders in eventing is behind us. Today’s cross-country phase clearly demonstrated that there’s no room for chance in this sport. Courage, precision, and a well-crafted strategy were the key ingredients to success on Strzegom’s demanding cross-country course.
The Young Riders were the first to take on the course. After Friday’s dressage, it seemed the German team would remain in control, but Saturday brought significant shifts in the standings.
Individually, Hannah Busch aboard Crystal-Annabell proved unbeatable, maintaining her lead in impressive style. “The course was incredibly demanding, but my mare and I fought to the end. We chose an alternative route to safely complete our round, and it turned out to be the right decision,” said Busch after her ride.
Ireland now tops the team rankings, largely thanks to an outstanding round by Ben Connors on Ols King Aragon – a rider who previously medaled at the European Pony Championships in Strzegom (team bronze in 2021, team gold in 2022).
France climbed to second place following strong performances from Valentin Quittet Eslan and Verane Nicaud – the latter already familiar to the Strzegom crowd from the 2024 LOTTO Strzegom Horse Trials, where she helped secure a Nations Cup victory aboard the same horse, Baron D'État. Their consistency today sealed the French team's advance.
Great Britain dropped to third, with Germany just outside the podium positions in fourth.
Team Poland moved up to fifth place, thanks to faultless cross-country rounds from Weronika Król on Chinunk R and Katarzyna Brandys on Sel Oscar. “I’m happy I gave my team a strong start and helped boost their confidence,” said Brandys. Zuzanna Borkowska also delivered a solid performance with Gracja.
Later in the day, it was the Juniors' turn – and their phase was equally packed with emotion. Belgian rider Thijs Boon on Gravin van Cantos took the individual lead after cross-country, helping his team move into third place. Ella Howard of Great Britain held onto second place individually with Marchwood. “The course was technical and demanding, but Marchwood was amazing. Now it’s time to rest ahead of tomorrow’s show jumping,” she said post-round.
Tied in third individually are Matis Cogniet (France) and Pia Sophie Schreiber (Germany). Team Italy jumped to second place in the rankings following a series of strong performances.
Poland currently holds sixth place in the Junior team competition, thanks in large part to an excellent performance by Zuzanna Społowicz on Dzaurus AA. Her round and 14th place in the individual standings significantly increase her chances of breaking into the final top ten.
The grand finale lies ahead. Tomorrow’s show jumping test will determine the medal standings in both categories. Will Hannah Busch hold onto her lead? Will France secure double team success?
