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Posted:
September 26, 2025, 08:15 PM

Unique in the (equestrian) world: five show jumping icons coach pony riders during Indoor Friesland

It doesn't happen anywhere else in the world, but it does in Leeuwarden: five absolute giants of show jumping who selflessly coach a team of pony riders during the final of the Allspan Pony Cup at Indoor Friesland.

Allspan team captain Jeroen Dubbeldam walks the course with his team
Allspan team captain Jeroen Dubbeldam walks the course with his team

This unique concept, conceived by sports director Yvonne van Bergen, debuted last year and sparked a wave of enthusiasm in equestrian sports. Beaming children, emotional moments, and countless positive reactions proved that this is more than just a competition. It's an experience that will stay with pony riders and spectators for the rest of their lives.

Willem Greve won the Grand Prix of Indoor Friesland last year and is one of the Allspan team captains this year - DigiShots
Willem Greve won the Grand Prix of Indoor Friesland last year and is one of the Allspan team captains this year - DigiShots

During the final on Thursday, October 23, 2025, 25 selected pony riders will ride a standard show jumping course… but with a twist. They will be divided into five teams and will receive coaching from five icons of Dutch show jumping who have also earned their stripes internationally:

  • Jeroen Dubbeldam, ambassador of Indoor Friesland and one of only two riders of all time to have become Olympic, World, and European champions.
  • Maikel van der Vleuten, winner of numerous individual and team medals, including two Olympic bronze medals and Rider of the Year 2024.
  • Willem Greve, reigning Dutch champion, praised for his sportsmanship at the Paris Games.
  • Jur Vrieling, a crowd pleaser from Groningen, known for his international successes and team medals.
  • Marriet Smit Hoekstra, a Frisian who fought her way into the national team through hard work and is an inspiration to young riders.
Allspan Horse Heroes Team Jeroen Dubbeldam Indoor Friesland 2024 © DigiShots
Allspan Horse Heroes Team Jeroen Dubbeldam Indoor Friesland 2024 © DigiShots

Nowhere else in the world do riders of this caliber dedicate themselves to young people in this way. They ride the course, help with warm-ups, and share tips and strategies as if it were the Olympics. In doing so, these living legends give back to the sport that made them great and give young pony riders an experience beyond their dreams. And you can bet that not only the pony riders, but the coaches are also incredibly enthusiastic!

This year's Allspan Pony Cup final is scheduled for late afternoon on Thursday, October 23rd, in the middle of the autumn break. It's a spectacular moment: right between two international show jumping competitions. This will hopefully mean packed stands and an unparalleled atmosphere.