Spotlight on Young Talent: Meet the 11 Riders of the YRA Team 2025

Spotlight on Young Talent is shining brightly as the Young Riders Academy (YRA) introduces the 11 Riders of the YRA Team 2025.

Johanna Beckmann from Germany, Leon Brutsaert from Belgium, Francis Derwin from Ireland, Max Foley from Ireland, Anni Hjerpe from Finland, Laura Bearing Kjaergaard from Denmark, Giulia Mattioli from Italy, Claudia Moore from England, Jules Orsolini from France, Evelyne Putters from Belgium and Bart Jay junior Vandecasteele.

The selected riders represent a diverse european nations, showcasing the depth of talent within the youth equestrian community. Each rider has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication, making them stand out in a competitive field. The YRA Team 2025 includes riders who are not only committed to their personal growth but also to fostering a spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship among their peers.

The Selection panel, including Jens Fredriccsson, Thierry Pomel, and Jeroen Dubbeldam, assessed the 22 candidates over a two-day period, evaluating their riding skills. Throughout the interview, the selection panel with Sven Holmberg and Valentina Ottaviani, evaluated the riders' sports knowledge and their compatibility with the program.

The YRA initiative focuses on comprehensive rider development, encompassing training, education, and exposure to various competitive environments. The program is designed to provide these young athletes with access to top-notch Educational sessions, specialized training sessions, and opportunities to participate in prestigious events. This holistic approach ensures that riders are well-prepared for the challenges of competitive equestrian sports.

As the YRA Team 2025 prepares for its inaugural year, the anticipation surrounding these talented young riders continues to build. With the right support and resources, these athletes have the potential to make significant contributions to the equestrian world and inspire future generations of riders.

"The expectations are elevated, however, this year, our attention is narrowed down to a specific group. We are dedicated to nurturing a fresh group of riders and individuals who are profoundly devoted to the equestrian field, valuing excellence in competition and advocating for fairness. These talents could potentially play significant roles in organizations and bodies with an equitable perspective and method," declared President of Athenaeum and YRA, Eleonora Ottaviani, stressing the significance of assisting riders in both their practical abilities and the management of the sport.

The program will officially kick off with the first sporting event, which will be the clinic with Franke Sloothaak scheduled for mid-April at Peelbergen Equestrian Centre. The education program, coordinated by project manager Valentina Ottaviani, will be launched in June at Franklin University Switzerland in Lugano, followed by additional sessions at Uppsala University in Sweden, FEI in Lausanne and Rolex Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.

Press Release by YRA