The world number one dressage rider Justin Verboomen of Belgium received the Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete Award at the FEI General Assembly Friday for his training and competition success with the lovely Zonik Plus.
As the rider from Belgium pointed out, it’s amazing to think that “exactly one year ago, I was only dreaming of us taking part in our first international show together. I never imagined how far this journey would take us. Mechelen was unforgettable especially because it was the last show my mother saw, and that memory makes every moment since even more meaningful.”
Raised in a family of riding instructors, Justin’s lifelong connection with horses has shaped a grounded and classical approach to his craft. From the time Justin met Zonik Plus as a two-and-a-half year-old in Portugal, their partnership has grown through patience, trust, and quiet determination, forming the foundation for their success at the highest levels of the sport.
The FEI Awards Gala 2025 presented by Longines In Hong Kong. Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete 2025 – Justin Verboomen (BEL). Photograph taken by Liz Gregg. Copyright of Liz Gregg / FEI.
Their achievements during the 2025 season brought Belgium unprecedented international recognition, including the nation’s first-ever FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ victory and an individual triumph at CHIO Aachen. Beyond the results, Justin has demonstrated consistency, composure, and deep respect for his horses, embodying the qualities celebrated by the Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete Award.
“Winning the Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete Award wasn’t something I expected; I just wanted to share the connection I feel with Zonik, to let people see his spirit and our story.
“To feel that others were moved, too, is incredibly touching. I’m endlessly grateful to have met a horse like him. He’s not just a partner in sport, but truly part of my family. This award isn’t just ours; it belongs to everyone who believed in us and felt our emotion through the arena.”
The Longines Rising Star Award went to Irish show jumper Tom Wachman.
At just 20, Tom is already making his mark on the international stage. A three-time European Champion, he has won team gold in the Pony (2019), Junior (2023), and Young Rider (2024) categories, and helped Ireland secure team silver at the FEI Jumping European Championship for Young Riders, Juniors & Children 2025 in Riesenbeck. This year has been particularly remarkable for Tom. He realized his childhood dream of representing Ireland at multiple CSIO5* events, contributing to team victories.
From his early days on the Irish pony circuit to the highest levels of international competition, his journey is a testament to talent, dedication, and remarkable consistency.
“I’ve been lucky to work with great horses and an incredible team behind me,” Tom.
“From the very start, I’ve had the support of amazing grooms, coaches, and everyone in the yard, and that makes all the difference. It’s been an amazing year — a lucky year with great horses, strong partnerships, and opportunities I’ve dreamed of since I was a child. Awards like this are just the icing on the cake. They recognize not just individual results, but the effort of everyone involved, and hopefully, they inspire young people to stay focused, work hard, and enjoy the journey as much as I have.”