This week, the Defender U.S. Driving Team is set to compete at the 2025 FEI Driving World Championships for Combined Ponies, taking place in Le Pin du Haras, France, at the prestigious Haras National du Pin. The event kicks off with the horse inspection on Wednesday, September 17, followed by the dressage phase starting Thursday, September 18.
Led by Chef d’Equipe Jeff Legg, Team Veterinarian Dr. Crystal Riczu, and Team Leader Steven Morrissey, the U.S. team is ready to represent the nation on the international stage.
The following athlete-and-pony combinations will compete for the Defender U.S. Driving Team, listed alphabetically:
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Anna Koopman (Middleburg, Va.) with Chandler Creek Eclipse (Thunder Michelangelo x FP Sunday Morning Coffee), her 2010 Morgan gelding
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Denise Loewe (Fort Collins, Colo.) with Steppy IK (Stepke IK x Hanna), her 2013 Haflinger cross gelding
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Sarah Reitz (Honeoye Falls, N.Y.) with Fferm Gwenffrwd Onyx Star (Hilin Peredur x Cottrell Charmer), her 2007 Welsh Pony gelding
Championship Schedule
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Competition officially begins on Thursday, September 18, with the first dressage performances and continues on Friday, September 19. Saturday, September 20, will feature the thrilling Marathon phase, designed by Germany’s Josef Middendorf. The event concludes on Sunday, September 21, with the cones phase, where precision and teamwork will determine the final standings.
