Hetzel Spring Masters – Five days full of excitement…

Right on time at 11:30 a.m., the starting bell rang for the first time: This marked the beginning of the Hetzel Spring Masters, held from April 23rd to 27th at the Hetzel equestrian facility in Goch, Rhineland. The event attracts riders from far beyond the Rhineland—among them, World Cup finalist Marcus Ehning from Borken. The entire first day, featuring four competitions, is dedicated to young show jumping horses.

Five days of pure show jumping sport means, above all, variety: In Goch, the youngest horses are given a platform in the spring just as much as the seasoned horses, riders, and trainers. Hetzel Stables sees itself as a pioneer in this respect—because it takes time and many opportunities to gain experience before talent and jumping ability are shaped into a truly well-trained partnership. One such milestone is the Spring Masters. This is also reflected in the fact that the Masters in Goch serves as the Rhineland Equestrian Association’s selection event for the “Preis der Besten” (Prize of the Best) for Children, Juniors, and Young Riders. This classic youth tournament is held in Warendorf and is the target for up-and-coming equestrian athletes. The state association has deliberately chosen Goch as the venue for this selection event.

The right program for every need

With the Spring Masters, Holger Hetzel and RSG Niederrhein attract both professionals and amateurs alike. Some riders bring young horses in training, kicking off the new outdoor season and benefiting from excellent arenas, many opportunities for preparation, and reliable organization. Others, meanwhile, can compete under top-class conditions in performance sport. And it doesn’t matter whether it’s a style jumping competition in Class L for the “Children” age group (up to 14 years old), or a two-phase jumping competition in Class M*. No matter where a horse and rider currently stand in their development, the competition serves to assess how well their training is progressing—in other words: the journey is the goal.

Free admission for guests and a foray into polo sport

Around the courses and arenas, the Hetzel Spring Masters offers excellent views and seating, as well as food and beverages—perfect for spectators, socializing, and family outings, with children’s play areas and bouncy castles. And on Saturday, another equestrian discipline pays a visit: At 4:15 p.m., the Polo Park Heisterfeldhof will present the sport of polo—complete with polo ponies, balls, and plenty of speed. And by the way: admission is free for all visitors, both young and old…