The Royal Dutch Equestrian Federation (KNHS) has once again awarded O-status to Driving Valkenswaard International (DVI) for the next two years. In 2021 and 2022 DVI will organize a prestigious Nations Cup for four-in-hand horses, a competition that is awarded per country just once per year.

After two successful editions of the DVI in 2018 and 2109, the organization was approached by the KNHS to organize a Nations Cup. “We are naturally honoured by the request from the KNHS. This is a fantastic chance for us to bring our event to an even higher level,” tells chairman Ludo Hertroijs. “Driving Valkenswaard International will be hosting her fifth edition this year. DVI is a driving competition that displays the world’s best teams in combined driving, and the addition of a Nations Cup just completes the picture. There is even more incentive for the team drivers to attend, as a four-star competition brings with it extra points towards their World Cup qualifications. But apart from that: for us it is a show of trust and appreciation.”

KNHS Sport Director Iris Boelhouwer adds: “DVI has proved itself to be a strong and ambitious organization. The previous editions of DVI were extremely successful and we are of the opinion that holding a Nations Cup for four-in-hand horses will compliment the goals set out by both of our organizations.”

The best of the international driving world 

During Driving Valkenswaard International from 28 July to 1 August 2021, the very best of the international driving world (pair and four-in-hand) will compete against each other in the disciplines of dressage, marathon and cones. In addition to the Nations Cup, the competitors will also compete against each other for individual classification.

DVI will be one of the last important competitions before the European Championships in Budapest and the World Championships for Pair Horses in Kronenberg. Both FEI championships will be held in the first half of September.

Covid-19 protocols

The organization will be keeping a close eye on any developments in the Covid-19 situation: “We hope that we will once again be able to welcome spectators to our event, but if the current situation does not allow, we will do everything in our power to go forward with a Covid-19-proof competition; that the drivers and their horses can still enjoy this beautiful competition,” finishes Ludo Hertroijs.

Photo Credit: Amy Mundell