Nordic Baltic Championships
The Nordic Baltic Equestrian Championships (NBECH) is a prestigious equestrian competition that unites seven nations: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden. For over two decades, the event has fostered international cooperation and sporting excellence across the region.
A significant milestone was reached in 2024, when the championships were officially recognised as a Regional Championship under the European Equestrian Federation (EEF), further strengthening their status within the international equestrian calendar.
The host venue traditionally rotates among the Nordic countries of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland, reinforcing collaboration between these equestrian communities while showcasing the region’s finest riders and horses.
Disciplines and Categories
The championships encompass three disciplines:
- Jumping
- Dressage
- Para Dressage
Each discipline includes multiple age and skill-based categories:
Jumping and Dressage Categories
- Seniors: Adult professional and amateur riders
- U25: Riders transitioning to senior level
- Young Riders: Developing athletes
- Juniors: Youth competitors
- Children: Emerging talent
- Ponies: Youth riders on ponies
Para Dressage Categories
- Grades I–V, ensuring inclusive participation for para-equestrian athletes
Development and Impact
The NBECH serves as a vital stepping-stone in athlete development, particularly for young riders. It provides:
- Valuable international championship experience
- A challenging yet achievable goal for developing athletes
- A pathway toward European Championship participation
- Educational opportunities for riders, trainers, officials, and families
Beyond competition, the championships strengthen the Nordic-Baltic equestrian community by bringing together disciplines and fostering a supportive environment for athletic and personal development.
To be officially recognised, the championship requires participation from at least four nations, reinforcing its role in promoting international cooperation and sporting excellence.
A New Visual Identity
In 2025, the Nordic-Baltic Equestrian Championships introduced a new official logo following a design competition that attracted 53 entries from all seven participating nations.
The winning design was created by Finnish graphic designer Annika De Kooter and selected by youth national teams, highlighting the importance of young athletes within the NBECH community.
Titled “Peace,” the logo reflects Nordic-Baltic traditions, the harmony between horse and rider, and the spirit of peaceful cooperation between the seven nations. Its minimalistic and modern design incorporates subtle Viking symbolism alongside the colours of each participating country.
The logo made its debut at the 2025 championships in Ypäjä, Finland, and continues to represent the identity and shared values of the NBECH.
From 2024 to Today
Although the Nordic Baltic Championships have been organised for more than 20 years, 2024 marked the first edition held as an official EEF Regional Championship — a defining moment in its evolution.
NBECH 2026 – Strömsholm, Sweden
In 2026, the Nordic Baltic Equestrian Championships in Jumping, Dressage, and Para Dressage will take place in Strömsholm (SWE) as part of the renowned Strömsholm Days.
Dates: 22–30 June 2026
This edition will be particularly special, combining the championships with an expanded international programme, including the introduction of a four-star international eventing competition alongside the traditional disciplines.
Strömsholm Days, long established as a highlight of the Swedish equestrian calendar, has been rescheduled to align with school holidays across the Nordic region, making the event more accessible to participants and spectators alike.
The event is organised through a collaboration between the Strömsholm Riding Association and the Strömsholm Riding School, with support from the Swedish Equestrian Federation and the Västmanland Equestrian Federation.
Preliminary Programme – Strömsholm Days 2026
22–25 June 2026 (Monday–Thursday)
International Dressage and Para Dressage for horses and ponies
26–30 June 2026 (Friday–Tuesday)
International Jumping for horses and ponies
26–27 June 2026 (Friday–Saturday)
International four-star Eventing competition
Full rules for the Nordic Baltic Equestrian Championships 2026 are available here
For exclusive behind-the-scenes coverage, visit the official Instagram @nordicbalticech
Full results of the 2025 Nordic Baltic Equestrian Championships 2025 can be viewed here