Zonik Plus defeats Maxima Bella once again in front of a home crowd
The Belgian victory of Justin Verboomen and his fantastic Zonik Plus was the crowning moment of six incredible days at CDI Lier. “I am so proud of Zonik Plus,” said an emotional Justin Verboomen after his win. With a score of 81.420%, they edged out Poland’s Sandra Sysojeva and Maxima Bella by less than one percent.
Dressage fans eagerly anticipated the showdown between the two nine-year-old sensations of the moment: Zonik Plus (by Zonik) and Maxima Bella (by Millenium). In yesterday’s Grand Prix, it was already a neck-and-neck battle in favor of Zonik Plus, and today, he once again proved he could triumph over the spectacular mare.
A beautiful conclusion
The audience was treated to dressage of the highest level this afternoon. With excellent balance and a highly harmonious performance, Justin Verboomen and Zonik Plus secured a Belgian victory, a more perfect ending to CDI Lier could hardly be imagined. Justin Verboomen was not the only rider to surpass the 80% mark. Poland’s Sandra Sysojeva delivered an impressive freestyle with Maxima Bella, earning a score of 80.570%. The final rider, the Dutch Marlies van Baalen, performed a strong freestyle with Habibi VDB (by Blue Hors Don Schufro), receiving a score of 77.460%.
So proud
“There were more spectators today than yesterday, but Zonik Plus didn’t mind. He remained fully focused on me throughout the entire freestyle,” said Justin Verboomen after his win. The Belgian rider was visibly emotional after securing victory in front of a home crowd. “The entire extended trot tour felt amazing, I really enjoyed it. And I’m just so proud of Zonik. He stays so calm in these conditions and this atmosphere, despite not having much experience at this level. He’s really starting to settle into it all, which will help him save even more energy for the tests in the future.”
Zonik Plus versus Maxima Bella
This was the first time the two nine-year-olds had the chance to compete against each other. “I think Maxima Bella is an incredible horse, with so much power and strength,” Justin said. “But of course, I think Zonik Plus is amazing too. Zonik has a very uphill build, great balance, and a beautiful frame. Maybe that made the difference today,” Justin explained. In about a week and a half, the pair will compete at The Dutch Masters. “I’m really looking forward to it. The competition there will be even tougher, and it will be interesting to see where we stand. I don’t have a chance to qualify for the World Cup Final, so my goal is to really enjoy the ride.” The 4* Grand Prix Freestyle was sponsored by Stephex.
CDIO debut
From May 14 to 18, the CDI Lier organization will host CDIO Lier for the first time, marking a historic moment as Belgium’s very first Nations Cup dressage competition.
