Dutch Pony Championship opens season during NK Dressage in Ermelo

During the NK Dressage in Ermelo, the Dutch Pony Championship is also part of the program. On Sunday, May 31, the first selection competition of the 2026 DPC season will be held at the National Equestrian Center. With this, visitors will not only get to see the Dutch dressage top in action, but also a glimpse of the future of the pony sport.

The Dutch Pony Championship focuses on young sport ponies aged four, five and six within the C, D and E categories. The competition seeks the best young ponies in the Netherlands, focusing on talent, harmony, presentation and rideability. The interest in the opening competition is great: the selection in Ermelo is now fully booked and has a waiting list.

For participants, the NK Dressage is a special venue to open the season. Amid the atmosphere of a major national championship, riders and amazons get the chance to present their young ponies in an ambiance reminiscent of an international competition.

From May 28 to 31, Ermelo will be all about the national dressage sport. During the NK Dressage there will be competition for titles in the categories Children, Juniors, Young Riders, U25, seniors and para-dressage, among others. The program also includes championships in the ZZ-Zwaar and Small Tour categories. Divided over several competition rings, visitors can enjoy four days of top sport, finals and kürs to music.
In addition to the sporting highlights, the event is known for the complete atmosphere on the grounds. With multiple tracks, an extensive program and a large straw village with various stands, the NK Dressage is an annual meeting place for riders, trainers, breeders and equestrian enthusiasts from all over the Netherlands.

Also during the DPC selection in Ermelo, the field of participants will be judged by an expert jury panel. Among others Paulien Alberts is again part of the panel. In addition, Bastiaan de Recht is also present during the competition as a guest judge.

With the combination of top sport, talent development and a unique show ambiance, the NK Dressage once again provides a special backdrop for the start of the 2026 Dutch Pony Championship season.

Visitors can visit the NK Dressage website for tickets, the full program and more information. We hope to welcome many enthusiasts and visitors to Ermelo at the end of May.