Flanders is partner of the World Equestrian Festival, CHIO Aachen 2009. On Monday, the Flemish Prime Minister Kris Peeters and the German Ambassador to Belgium, Prof. Dr. Reinhard Bettzuege presented the project together with the CHIO-organiser Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein e.V. (ALRV) in Brussels.
They were supported by the Flemish top riders Jos Lansink (Jumping, current World Champion), Ludo Philippaerts (Jumping) and Karin Donckers (Eventing).
“It is a great opportunity for such a small region like Flanders to being able to present itself on a stage like the CHIO Aachen’s”, Peeters explained. “Both from an economic and a touristic point of view, our appearance as partner country is very important to us. Though the most significant aspect is that Flanders, just like Germany, is one of the world’s most influential equestrian regions.” Prof. Dr. Reinhard Bettzuege said: “Last year, I witnessed Russia’s performance as partner country at the Soers. It was inspiring to see how the audience celebrated the partner country. The CHIO Aachen is a great event, I do not know a better show in the world.”
In Aachen, everybody is already looking forward to welcoming the Flemish guests. “The partner country is of an enormous importance. It assumes a great responsibility, because it adds a special character to the event. Thus, we are very much looking forward to our partner Flanders”, said ALRV Vice President Carl Meulenbergh. Traditionally, the guest country is actively involved in the CHIO’s official opening ceremony (June 30th, 2009). Furthermore, one day previous to the ceremony, the Flamish guests will be welcomed by the citizens of Aachen in the market square.
The ALRV’s Chairman of the Managing Board, Frank Kemperman whetted the audience’s appetite for the CHIO Aachen while talking to Karin Donckers, Jos Lansink and Ludo Philippaerts. “Since 1988, I have been taking part in the competitions in the Soers”, said Lansink, “and the fact that my home Flanders will be this year’s partner country is of enormous importance. We will present our successes in horse sport and horse breeding.” Ludo Philippaerts is already looking forward to the CHIO 2009: “Aachen is simply a dream. I already visited the event as spectator when I was ten years old.” And Karin Donckers added: “Just like Badminton and Burghley, Aachen is one of the most important horse shows for us eventers.“
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