Nordic Baltic Championships 2024
The Nordic-Baltic Championships were recently held in Denmark, with all 7 regional countries represented as athletes or officials in an event that displayed true passion and commitment to equestrian sport.
The Nordic-Baltic Championships have been organised for over 20 years, but this was the first edition as an official Regional Championship. The Championships already hold notoriety as one of the region's most important championships, especially for developing young athletes.
The event was held across two locations. In Hjallerup, Jumping classes for Ponies, Children, Juniors, Young Riders took place alongside a CVI Vaulting competition for Children, Juniors and Seniors. In the Jumping over 130 riders battled it out across the age from Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Norway and Sweden, with Vaulting boasting over 40 competitors too.
In Skårup, Funen there was Dressage for Ponies, Juniors, Young Riders, U25, Seniors and as well as Para Dressage, which was an MER for Championships and Games. Almost 100 riders part with 20 riders for the Para categories.
The Championships represent far more than just those on the podium, the collective team spirit and enthusiasm from everyone involved is what makes the event so extra special.
All 7 regional countries, with the support of the EEF, have been involved in the organisation, from the initial procedures to establish the event as a Regional Championship to all the on-event roles and responsibilities. The organisers of both events faced some additional hurdles as they stepped in to host but this only further demonstrated their commitment to ensure a successful Championships could be delivered.
Anders Carlsen, the organiser of this years’ Jumping and Vaulting championships said:
“We are happy for all the positive statements and response from both riders, families, officials and others that have been here. The Team have worked hard to arrange this event, despite that we have had a short time to prepare, and I am proud of what so many volunteers can manage and arrange together, alongside the Danish Equestrian Federation and experienced officials.”
The organisers made great efforts to ensure the event could cater for all those in attendance across the riders, their families, officials, the chef d’equipes in a way that created a top sporting environment, with room for all to learn and enjoy.
EEF Secretary General Teodor Sheytanov was in attendance:
“What makes these regional championships so special, and so important, is the way the people come together and support each other. The Championships give an important moment for riders to gain experience and develop themselves, and todo so in an atmosphere that is so encouraging and confidence-building makes it so unique. I must thank the organisers, the Danish National Federation and those of the other Nordic Baltic countries who together with the EEF have solidified a wonderful concept into a true FEI Regional Championship. Finally, these events could not have taken place without a huge number of volunteers, and I thank them for their time and dedication.
We look forward to next year's edition in Finland!”