Horses & Riders: Young Riders And Borrowed Horses Bring México To Life

By Sara Tylosky

Young riders from eight countries, including the United States, will gather for the Concours de Dressage International (CDI) World Cup Qualifier at Rancho San Vicente, near Santa Fe, México. This historic competition -  the first multi-nation youth CDI in México in 20 years - is bringing a new kind of excitement to the equestrian world through a unique borrowed-horse program, inspired by the Dressage4Kids concept. The initiative allows qualified youth to travel to México and compete at the world cup level, even without bringing their own horses. San Miguel de Allende will be proudly represented both by a local young rider and by a horse lent to an international competitor.

Ánimo, a Pura Raza Española (PRE) horse stabled in San Miguel, will be lent to one of 15 visiting young riders. This act of generosity highlights the deep spirit of collaboration that defines the event. Owners and trainers will attend to watch their horses perform and support the youth who ride them. “This horse has the talent and ability to shine in the hands of a skilled rider,” says Dutch trainer Brigitte Berman, speaking about Ánimo alongside owner Sara Tylosky. “We’re thrilled to contribute to the event and support these amazing young athletes from across the Americas.” For San Miguel’s Nelie Jospitre, 14, the road to dressage began with a different dream. “I originally wanted to be a show jumper,” she laughs. “But I got told that all good jumpers start with dressage.” What began as training turned into a true passion. Nelie rose through the ranks and earned a top spot at the North American Youth Championships, placing 1^st in México and 11^th in North America on a borrowed Grand Prix horse. Now she prepares to compete at the CDIW in México.

“To ride at the same event as these Olympic riders, feels absolutely surreal,” Nelie says. “It’s a dream come true.” Together, Ánimo and Nelie reflect San Miguel’s unique presence in this historic, festive competition, blending hometown pride with the international spirit of dressage and the vibrant colors of Día de Muertos.

The event runs October 29^th to November 9^th, with horses residing in México matched to riders through a formal drawing, followed by a week of training. The grand finale will take place on November 7 and 9, judged by international officials from the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI). The competition will feature top Olympic riders from Spain, Germany, Belgium, and beyond.Notable participants include Borja Carrascosa (Spain), Patricia Ferrando (Venezuela), Ingrid Klimke, a German Olympic rider known for her connection with her horses, Kevin Kohmann, the youngest professional rider in German history (now competing for the U.S.), and rising Belgian stars Jorinde Verwimp and Justin Verboomen.

Dressage, often called “ballet on horseback” tests precision, balance, and the extraordinary connection between horse and rider.

The borrowed-horse program is at the heart of this year’s event, a rare initiative where owners trust their horses to skilled youth competitors. Owners and trainers will be ringside, proud to watch their horses perform on an international stage. Top-placing horses can even earn a share of the prize money, though the true reward is the shared joy and trust between horse and rider.

“This isn’t just a competition; it’s a celebration,” says Omar Zayrik, co-organizer of the CDI. “We’re bringing together horses, riders, and families from across the Americas to experience both top-level sport and the vibrant traditions of México, including Día de Muertos.”

“This event shows the world that México is a leading destination for international equestrian sport, especially in youth development,” adds Victoria Wiley, co-organizer of the CDI. “We’re not just hosting competition; we’re building opportunities for riders and celebrating a culture that embraces horses, tradition, and international friendship.”

For participants, the CDI is more than just a World Cup qualifier; it’s a moment to learn, grow, and shine. For the owners and trainers, it’s a chance to see their horses take the international stage. And for spectators, it’s an invitation to experience the thrill of world-class dressage, the warmth of Mexican hospitality, and the festive spirit of Día de Muertos, all in one unforgettable event.

For tickets and more information go to boletomovil.com/artista/dressage-internacional-world-cup-qualifier-2025-mexico