CAI Exloo 2026: The world’s top is present

Interest is high: the number of entries even exceeded the available starting places. For many drivers, Exloo is the traditional kickoff of the outdoor season.

This year’s marathon course is designed by course builders Josef Heisterkamp and Hanne-Louise de Koning. The obstacles are situated around the main arena, with the water obstacle as a major crowd favorite.

Looking ahead

Para-driving athlete Josien de Boer is looking forward to her home event. “It almost feels like a home competition. That makes it extra special to start the season here.”

Top Four-in-Hand driver Koos de Ronde will start with a young team and is using Exloo to gain competition experience. “Indoor can be compared to the 500 meters in speed skating, outdoor more to the 10 kilometers. You have to build up your competition, especially in the marathon.”

Eline Houterman is also looking forward to the start of the season after a period of recovery. “For me, this is not only the start of the season, but also an important benchmark to see where we stand heading towards the World Championships in Munich at the beginning of September.”

Josien de Boer - Foto: Marlien Smit

New names in four-in-hand horses class

The field includes a great mix of experience and new combinations. Notably, several drivers are making the transition this year from pairs to four-in-hand teams. Notable names include:

Franck Grimonprez (FRA)
Marcel Luder (SUI)
Alexander Bösch (AUT)
Kees Koops (NED)

This adds extra dynamics and new rivalries within the top level of Four-in-Hand driving.

Koos de Ronde - Foto: Krisztina Horváth

Program

Wednesday, March 25 – Horse inspection
Thursday, March 26 & Friday, March 27 – Dressage
Saturday, March 28 – Marathon (highlight)
Sunday, March 29 – Cones (final)

On Saturday evening, a stallion show will take place in the indoor arena, featuring approved stallions from various studbooks, including KWPN, KFPS, and several pony breeds.

The full competition schedule can be found via this link. The dressage starting lists will be published on Wednesday evening, March 25.

CAI Exloo is free to attend and offers four days of top-level sport, excitement, and entertainment for all ages. Ample parking is available, including facilities for people with disabilities.

Eline Houterman - Foto: Bianca Douwes

Source: Hoefnet. Reproduction without permission is not allowed; requests can be sent to info@hoefnet.nl.
Photos: Krisztina Horváth, Bianca Douwes & Marlien Smit