Aussies Compete at FEI Driving World Championships for Horse Pairs

Andrew Damsma and Tor Van Den Berge represented Australia proudly at the FEI Driving World Championship for Horse Pairs in Kronenberg, NL. 

With the Covid-19 pandemic disrupting the competition calendar worldwide many teams were left uncertain as to whether the event would take place. Not only did the Championships proceed as planned, the event also attracted a record number of competitors, with a total of 97 starters from 22 countries, lining up to contest the world title.

“Three months ago we decided to try and make it to the world pairs championships. Ours and Ross and Miriam’s Carbery Estate girls have never competed in Europe as a pair, as they are usually the wheelers in the fours team. We had one competition to qualify, and qualify they did with an amazing second place at Driving Valkenswaard International competition,” shares Tor.

However, the bond Tor has with the his two horses Carbery Estate Cato and Carbery Estate Chino, having had them since they were unbroken 3-year-olds, shone through as the team delivered a stellar performance to finish the Championships in 10^thplace, from 97 of the world’s best pairs drivers.

Australia was truly represented on the world stage with Team Van Den Berge as Tor’s horses are also Australian bred by Ross Carbery and Miriam Bentley.

Fellow Aussie Andrew Damsma and his horses Humorist R.W. and Joviro R.W finished the competition in 57th position, a great effort for their World Championships debut.

“We exceeded all expectations at my first World Champs. My young horses with only a handful of competitions under their belts have improved so much this year, with each outing they get better and I couldn't be happier. I am thrilled with my horses’ performances and excited for their future,” said Andrew.

Australia also finished in 10th place overall in the team competition.