Time passes. Champions do too. Except for a few.

At the 10th edition of the Belgian Dressage Championships in Lier, Wim Verwimp delivered one of the most remarkable stories of the weekend by claiming another national title, 32 years after his first.

Partnering with Jedai de Massa, the 12-year-old Don Juan de Hus son, the Belgian rider held off a late challenge from Jeroen Devroe in the Freestyle to Music. Despite a small tension-related mistake, Verwimp relied on the advantage he had built in the previous rounds to maintain his lead in the final standings, finishing on a total score of 216.178%. Lestor secured the silver medal with 214.647%, while Suraya Hendrikx completed the podium on 209.894%.

« He really is my mate said an emotional Verwimp after securing the title. The achievement was made even sweeter by the circumstances: after spending a decade away from competition, the Belgian rider has returned to the top of the national sport. As if that were not enough, he was also part of the organising team behind this year's championships.

Behind Verwimp's fairytale comeback, Suraya Hendrikx confirmed her status as one of the standout performers of the week. Together with Dear Friend 2, she collected a fourth medal after already winning gold in the Small Tour, Briljant Cup and Diamant Cup. An impressive haul that highlights the current depth and strength of Belgian dressage.

A Celebration of Belgian Dressage

For five days, more than 300 horses and 200 riders filled the four arenas in Lier, in what has become one of the largest dressage events in the world. The anniversary edition concluded with championship titles, high-level performances and emotional moments, including the farewell appearance of Domien Michiels' long-time partner, Intermezzo van het Meerdaalhof.

Thirty-two years between two national titles. Some achievements are measured in seconds. Wim Verwimp's are measured in generations.

The results of the Belgian Dressage Championships can be found here.