Congress Unchained Prix for Dutchman Frank Schuttert
The second qualifier for the Three-Star Riders Grand Prix, the final class of Indoor Friesland 2025, has just been held in the Congres Unchained Prix, a course with a jump-off over a height of 1,50m. 43 combinations started. Sixteen combinations completed the basic course clear and were allowed to return for the jump-off. Two declined and saved their horses for tomorrow. After an exciting jump-off, the win went to Frank Schuttert. Frank rode the nine-year-old mare La Luna Especiale (by Cape Coral Rbf ) across the finish line in 37.35 seconds.
Second prize went to Egypt. Ahmed Naser Elnaggar and the twelve-year-old mare Urville Z (by Ukato) clocked 39.83 seconds. Third prize remained in the Netherlands again. There's almost no award ceremony where he doesn't have to attend. Willem Greve and his ten-year-old super mare Pretty Woman van 't Paradijs (by Vigo d'Arsouilles) clocked 35.24 seconds.
First victory at Indoor Friesland
Frank: “This is my first victory here at Indoor Friesland. I think it's a fantastic competition, great that it's back on the map. I'd heard so many enthusiastic stories from the older generation, and now I've experienced it firsthand. We organize a major competition at home too, so I know better than anyone how much work this is. For a three-star competition, it's extra special here. To win a test on top of that is very special.”
Team performance
I've been riding La Luna for a year and a half now, and the owners are here too. She's only nine and very talented. We've already achieved good results in the outdoor season, so the future looks promising. Of course, management is crucial, and I'm not solely responsible for this; we do it together. And of course, with my groom, Jessica Rauers, who has worked for me for thirteen years and whom I can rely on 100 percent. I also want to call my team home here, from the farrier to my parents. They do everything, and I'm the one who completes it.
Patients
Sponsor and veterinarian Yte Kelte will take the floor. She and a group of veterinarians organized the Unchained conference for equine veterinarians, a wonderful side event at Indoor Friesland. “The idea for our conference here at Indoor Friesland originated with veterinarian friends from various large clinics in the Netherlands. Coincidentally, one of our colleagues is the chair of this competition, and one plus one equals two. We definitely achieved what we envisioned. We work with horses every day, but we never see why we do it. Seeing your patients is wonderful, even if it's at a different level.”
Grand Prix with another horse
The final word goes to Frank: "I hope for another long day tomorrow and that I'll be back here after the Grand Prix. However, tomorrow I'll be riding a different horse that's competing in a Grand Prix at this level for the first time. But we're going for it. The preparation was good, and we're going to do everything we can."
Text: Media team Indoor Friesland
Photos: Digishots
