As Mayor of our city of horses, I am honoured to welcome you to this special event, which not only celebrates the beauty of equestrian sports, but also highlights the strength and determination of riders with different abilities. The CPEDI*** dressage competitions for riders with disabilities are an added bonus for Waregem as a town where top-level sport is celebrated. From equestrian sports to football, basketball and cycling.As a city of horses, we give spectators a taste of as many different disciplines as possible throughout the year, and we also support many opportunities to make equestrian sport possible. Eventing, show jumping, dressage, trotting, galloping… there’s something for everyone. Our Gaverbeekhippodrome and Sport.Vlaanderen Waregem form a unique entity just a stone’s throw from the city centre. All possible disciplines are practised here at all levels and in the best conditions. An undeniable calling card for our town, which makes us so unique in Flanders.
Waregem is also known for its friendly community and for encouraging inclusion. This dressage competition is an excellent example of the pursuit of equality and opportunity for all. It is heart-warming to see the participants demonstrate their skills with passion and dedication, whatever the challenges they face. This passion and dedication is at the root of great sporting achievements that we can only watch with admiration.
In addition to the organisers, I would like to express my special thanks to the many volunteers who make this event possible. Thanks to you, the international field can compete in ideal conditions, and these competitions are a solid warm-up for the Paralympic Games in Paris. We’re looking forward to a strong performance from our Belgian Paralympians!And for now: welcome to our equestrian city. We’re particularly proud to welcome you!
Kurt Vanryckeghem
Mayor Waregem
