They had to get the job done. The Belgians did far more than that. Solid from the first fence to the last, the jumping musketeers claimed an emphatic victory in the Longines EEF Series Semi-Final at Peelbergen, in the Netherlands, this afternoon. A win built on consistency, young riders stepping up, and Gilles Thomas playing the boss when it mattered to send Belgium through to the Final in Avenches.
More a demonstration than a simple ticket to the Final
Sometimes, a victory leaves no room for debate. Belgium’s win at Peelbergen belongs firmly in that category.
Over a course designed by Bart Vonck, demanding without being monstrous, the Belgians delivered two rounds of remarkable control to finish the day on just six penalties. Behind them, the gap told its own story: Sweden finished on 13 faults, Spain on 19, France on 21, while Great Britain secured the final qualifying ticket with 30 penalties.
Mission accomplished: Belgium will indeed be in Avenches in September,s, where the Longines EEF Series Final will be held.
Gudrun Patteet delivers the perfect score
In a Nations Cup, there is always one combination that tips the match.
This time, it was Gudrun Patteet and Sea Coast Qarvaljo d’Or.
The ten-year-old BWP gelding, owned by Ruben De Grave and Sea Coast Horses, produced one of only two faultless performances across both rounds. A precious double clear that laid the foundations for Belgium’s success.
« “I am really happy, but this result is not only mine. I am especially happy for my horse and that I was able to help the team.” », said the rider after the class.
For the son of Mosito van het Hellehof, competing in only his second Nations Cup, this performance represents another fine step in his education.
Gilles Thomas, the boss when it counts
Belgium’s final bullet was handed to Gilles Thomas.
After four faults in the first round, the European individual bronze medallist returned with one simple idea: reset the counter to zero.
Mission accomplished.
Partnered with the promising nine-year-old stallion Riesling van’t Roosakker, the world number six delivered a perfect round at exactly the right moment, definitively sealing the Belgian victory.
The rider particularly appreciates the EEF Series format.
« The two rounds are ideal for both horses and riders. When a first round does not go as planned, you immediately have the opportunity to correct things. It is valuable experience, and that is why I like taking part in these Nations Cups. »
And when it comes to finishing the job?
« I like riding for Belgium. When you take part in a Nations Cup, it is often with the ambition to win. So when the result is there, it feels even better.
The next generation is already answering the call
The EEF Series has never hidden its purpose: to prepare the next generation.
Each team must field one rider under the age of 25. Belgium has found its man.
At just 24, Roy van Beek fulfilled his role perfectly with Charleston-H. After picking up two time faults in the first round, he corrected the shot to deliver an immaculate clear in the second act.
A progression that sums up the spirit of the circuit perfectly.
« Last year, this series allowed me to move on to five-star Nations Cups. It is a very important step in a rider’s development. »
Even when everything does not run perfectly, the strength of the collective makes the difference. Koen Vereecke, who had a more difficult day with Quinoa de la Linière, did not hesitate to smile: Luckily, I had very good teammates. »
A team, depth, ambition
Chef d’Equipe Filip Lacus could hardly hide his satisfaction.
Belgium now has rare depth.
« We have a lot of riders who want to take part in Nations Cups. Our goal is always to build teams that are competitive enough to chase qualification. »
Qualification is now in the bag.
One mission remains. To try to become the first nation from the Western or Northern regions to win the Longines EEF Series Final.
And judging by what the Belgians showed at Peelbergen, no one will particularly fancy seeing them arrive at full speed in Avenches.
Find the results of the EEF Series Semi-Final at Peelbergen here.
(Photos ©EEF Series/Sportfot)
