Dr. Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, will assume patronage of the 2021 European Dressage and Show Jumping Championships in Hagen and Riesenbeck, Germany.
Equestrian sport has long held a firm place in the heart of the EU President and is of great importance to the passionate dressage rider. Perhaps, Dr. von der Leyen is the most high profile of all equestrian figures in the political scene.
Riding Against Hunger
Since 2012, she has also been patron of the charity initiative "Riding against Hunger", which was established by Ullrich Kasselmann and Gudrun Bauer (Bauer Media) and raises funds in the equestrian world for the benefit of World Hunger Relief through various charity campaigns.
"The love of horses and equestrian sport unites people in Europe across regions, languages and customs. That is why it is a great pleasure for me to take over the patronage for this championship, which is special in times of the Corana pandemic," says Dr von der Leyen. "I wish riders and horses a safe, successful championship and great competition; may the best win!”
"We are very pleased that Ursula von der Leyen is accepting the patronage for both championships," says organiser Ullrich Kasselmann. "Her great enthusiasm and passion for the development of our sport make her an excellent ambassador."
Ludger Beerbaum is certain: "The patronage for these special events could not have been more European. Ursula von der Leyen's commitment underlines the international significance of both tournaments and the importance of equestrian sport in the region in equal measure."
2021 European Dressage Championships in Hagen
Hof Kasselmann in Hagen a.T.W. will host the FEI Dressage European Championships for senior and U25 athletes from 7 to 12 September. For the first time in the history of the European Championships, both championships will take place at one location.
Visitors can look forward to first-class dressage sport, but jumping fans will also get their money's worth. International jumping competitions and the fifth stage of the BEMER Riders Tour add to the exciting competition schedule in the main arena. An exhibition covering all aspects of equestrian sport, lifestyle, home and hospitality complete the diverse offer.
Related Links
Eurodressage Photo Database: Ursula von der Leyen
Eurodressage Coverage of the European Dressage Championships - U25/Seniors