A Crucial Weekend for European Eventing: Burnham Market and Kronenberg Lead the Charge
This weekend marks a critical moment in the European eventing calendar, with two high-profile competitions set to shape the trajectory of Olympic selection and international rankings: Burnham Market International in Norfolk, England, and the Kronenberg CCI in the Netherlands.
Burnham Market International: British Selection in Focus
Held from 12 to 14 April, Burnham Market International has long served as a proving ground for British riders looking to secure spots on the national squad. With the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on the horizon, this year’s event carries particular weight. British selectors are expected to watch performances in the CCI4*-S and CCI3*-L divisions closely.
Riders to watch include world champion Yasmin Ingham, Olympic medallist Tom McEwen, and reigning European champion Ros Canter. Their presence signals the event’s importance as a benchmark for consistency and form. Early dressage tests are expected to set a high bar, with showjumping and cross-country phases providing opportunities to solidify standing or slip under pressure.
The course design, by Alec Lochore, has a reputation for encouraging bold, forward riding while punishing indecision. Rain earlier in the week has softened ground conditions slightly, but organisers maintain that the course remains fair and rideable.
Kronenberg CCI: Continental Pressure and Olympic Implications
Running concurrently from 11 to 14 April, the Kronenberg CCI4*-S in the Netherlands is attracting top European talent eager to impress ahead of Paris. With Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium all nearing final Olympic squad decisions, performances here may tip the scales.
Germany’s Julia Krajewski, a Tokyo gold medallist, leads a strong contingent, joined by riders such as Michael Jung and Ingrid Klimke. Dutch hopes rest on Merel Blom and Andrew Heffernan, while Belgium fields a solid team headed by Lara de Liedekerke-Meier.
Kronenberg’s cross-country course, known for its technical accuracy, is expected to highlight fitness and adjustability. The timing of the event places it as a final or penultimate run for many combinations targeting selection.
The Broader Context
With just over three months to go until Paris, performances at both Burnham and Kronenberg will heavily influence selectors and national federations. The close scheduling of these events offers comparative insight into national team strategies, rider fitness, and emerging talent.
In addition to Olympic implications, these competitions carry significant FEI points and affect rankings leading into the second half of the 2025 season. For developing riders, strong results could open doors to Nations Cup appearances or late-season 5* entries.
Spectator interest remains high, with livestreams drawing international viewership and social media engagement tracking top combinations. This reflects both the growing profile of the sport and the increasing scrutiny under which Olympic hopefuls now operate.
Conclusion
This weekend’s action at Burnham Market and Kronenberg is more than a mid-season milestone; it is a defining moment in the lead-up to Paris. For established riders, it is a chance to cement their selection. For others, it may be the final opportunity to break through.
With strong entries, influential selectors watching, and Olympic slots on the line, expect high stakes and potentially career-defining performances across both venues.
