From June 9th through 12th, Valkenswaard is in the spotlight for four-in-hand and pair driving sport. The driving worlds best will battle it out in dressage, marathon and cones on the grounds of Exell Equestrian in Borkel en Schaft, Netherlands.

The terrain at five time world champion Boyd Exell’s home base is suitable for three star level competition. The main arena, located in front of the main building, is perfectly located for spectators to follow the competition while enjoying a drink or something to eat. Dressage is on the schedule for Thursday and Friday, June 9th and 10th. The spectacular marathon, with 8 diverse obstacles is planned for Saturday, June 11th. Finally, the exciting cones competition will be held on Sunday, June 12th.

Beautiful entourage

Due to the royal training fields, excellent facilities, and the beautiful entourage, drivers from all over the world come eagerly to Valkenswaard to participate. For the four-in-hand drivers, Driving International Valkenswaard is a good gauge for the World Championships that will be held in Italy in September. The course designer for the World Championships, Josef Middendorf, will be the course designer this year in Valkenswaard as well. In edition, this competition counts towards points for the World Cup Driving in the coming indoor season.

Spectators are welcome

Due to corona last year, the event had to be held without spectators. This year, the public is very welcome. Chairman Ludo Hertroijs: “We are looking forward to organizing a ‘normal’ Driving Valkenswaard International again. Last year we had a fantastic competition with strong competitors. But spectators help create so much more atmosphere, and young and old can enjoy the presentations of the International best. In addition we are again offering our sponsors a competition with all the bells and whistles. Our organizers and volunteers are really looking forward to it!”

Photo Credit - Petra Visser