Danish Sophia Ludvigsen scored a double victory in the Under 25 classes at the 2024 CDI-W Amsterdam on 26 - 27 January 2024. The international Under 25 division at the World Cup qualifier was part of the Lövsta Future Challenge International Tour.
Future Challenge
The Lövsta Future Challenge International Dressage Tour consists of three independent competitions held during the World Cup qualifiers in Herning, Amsterdam, and Gothenburg. The tour provides an opportunity for some of Europe's best U25 dressage riders to compete at the same venues as some of the World Cup's stages.
Each event has a total of 8 competitors, with the organizing countries Sweden, Denmark and Holland each having (at least) two places. All countries are invited to apply for the two remaining places.
Ludvigsen Wins Twice
Blue Hors team rider Sophia Ludvigsen topped the board twice in Amsterdam, winning the U25 Grand Prix with 71.846% and the Kur to Music with 79.310%. Her partner in crime is her ride of four years, 10-year old Blue Hors Quintana (by Quantensprung x Desperados).
"I am so happy, Quintana has felt fantastic both days here, and it was truly a special feeling to ride the freestyle in this arena. The freestyle is one of Nanna's old ones, but it suits us!" said Sophia after her Kur win.
Exciting times lie ahead for Ludvigsen, who is only one of two riders that will retain their employment with the Kirk Kristiansen family after Blue Hors will close its door on 1 April 2024. She and Nanna Skodborg Merrald will move to the smaller facility in Fyn.
Top Three
Second place went to Dutch home favorite Marten Luiten with Willeke Bos' KWPN mare Fynona (by Ampere. They danced to the tunes of 80s pop and rock music, securing a score of 77.99%. The third spot was claimed by Danish rider Thea Bech with Dionisos (by Spielberg), scoring 77.52%.
The next stop for the Lövsta Future Challenge International Tour will be at the Gothenburg Horse Show, taking place from February 21-25.
Related Links
Scores: 2024 CDI-W Amsterdam
Lovsta Future Challenge Goes International - Tour for U25 Riders at Three World Cup Qualifiers