The future of equestrian sport took center stage on Saturday afternoon during the Toverland Jimmy Cup 2025. Thirty enthusiastic pony riders lined up at the start, cheered on loudly by their fans in the stands. In the end, it was ten-year-old Scarlett van Werkhoven who claimed victory aboard her experienced pony Arkan.
With a faultless and lightning-fast jump-off round of 25.75 seconds, Scarlett set the standard. Her victory was extra special, as it came at the same competition where her idol Henrik von Eckermann was also competing. She may only be ten years old, but Scarlett already has a clear goal in mind: “I want to become a really good rider!”
The young equestrian’s ambition has been evident for some time — she previously finished second at the Limburg Championships and fifth at the Dutch Nationals. Today, she added a beautiful win to her record, together with her 26-year-old pony Arkan.
Big Dreams
Fellow ten-year-old Selin van Vliet kept the tension high until the very end but had to settle for second place with her pony Oliver Twist, just two-tenths of a second behind Scarlett. Earlier this year, Selin was crowned Dutch Champion with her pony Enjoy, and she dreams big: “I hope to ride at the Olympic Games one day!”
Third place went to Danique Mussers, who delivered a tight, flawless round aboard C’est La Vie Star. The fifteen-year-old multiple Limburg Champion proudly raised her fist as she crossed the finish line. Victoria Weinhold followed closely with Glencroft Mac, taking fourth place, while Sven Vissers completed the top five with his six-year-old pony Gintonic, cheered on by his proud grandfather from the sidelines.
Photos by Digishots
