In every generation, a standout rider appears, not just someone who wins medals, but someone who changes the feeling and direction of the entire sport. A rider who shows what dressage can look like when it’s built on empathy, partnership, and true horsemanship.
Right now, that rider is Justin Verboomen.
As an equestrian mindset coach, I’m always looking beneath the surface:
- What fuels a rider’s confidence?
- What mindset creates long-term success
- What strengthens the bond between horse and rider?
Justin embodies everything the future of dressage needs, compassion, classical principles, and a mindset rooted in respect. His rise is more than a personal achievement; it’s a signal that the sport is evolving in a positive, welfare-led direction.
A New Kind of Dressage Success Story
Unlike many riders who come through major powerhouse systems, Justin Verboomen built his career through steady progress, authenticity, and true belief in his horse.
In 2025, he made history by winning double gold at the European Dressage Championships with his extraordinary stallion, Zonik Plus, a moment that captured the hearts of riders everywhere. These victories weren’t just about precision and performance; they were powerful demonstrations of harmony, softness, and genuine connection.
What inspires so many riders, myself included, is that Justin’s journey wasn’t built on pressure or privilege. It was built on patience, partnership, and a mindset that honours the horse first.
A Rider–Owner Partnership That Redefines Modern Dressage
One of the most unique aspects of Justin’s story is that he isn’t just Zonik Plus’s rider, he is also his owner.
From a mindset and welfare perspective, this changes everything.
When a rider owns their horse, their priorities shift:
- Long-term wellbeing comes before short-term results
- Communication deepens
- Pressure reduces
- Training becomes more patient
- Decisions are made with genuine love and responsibility
This rider–owner bond is rare at the elite levels of dressage. And yet it is exactly the kind of relationship that can reshape the future of the sport.
Softness, Sensitivity, and Classical Dressage Values
At the heart of dressage lies artistry, something Justin Verboomen brings back into the spotlight.
His riding is defined by:
✔ softness
✔ feel
✔ balance
✔ harmony
✔ emotional connection
✔ classical principles
In a world where riders can be pushed to produce results, Justin rides to create partnership. He listens first. He adapts instead of demands. He rides with empathy, not ego.
From a mindset coaching perspective, this is what true mastery looks like.
Softness isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom.
And Justin demonstrates it with every stride.
The Courage to Compete Barefoot. A Welfare-First Approach
One of the most progressive and widely discussed aspects of Justin’s horsemanship is his decision to keep Zonik Plus barefoot, even at the highest level of dressage competition.
This is almost unheard of in elite dressage and yet the benefits have been clear:
- improved limb health
- less swelling
- more natural, expressive movement
- greater comfort
- a more relaxed way of going
The significance isn’t just in the barefoot choice itself, but in the mindset behind it:
“What is truly best for my horse?”
Not:
- What do others expect
- What is traditional
- What will judges think?
This kind of independent, welfare-led thinking is exactly what the future of horsemanship needs, riders who question, consider, and choose with compassion.
A Champion With Heart, Humility, and Honesty
Beyond his technical skill, Justin Verboomen stands out for who he is off the horse.
He is grounded, humble, and refreshingly authentic. He speaks openly about the sacrifices, the lessons, the quiet years, and the emotional journey behind the success. That vulnerability is powerful, especially for everyday riders who often feel pressure to “have it all together.”
Justin’s honesty gives permission for others to embrace the ups and downs of their riding journey without shame.
It shows that success doesn’t require ego.
It requires heart.
Why Justin Verboomen’s Rise Is Good for the Future of Dressage
Justin’s influence is shaping a healthier, more connected, more ethical future for the sport. Here’s how:
Horse Welfare Comes First
His barefoot approach and training philosophy encourage deeper reflection about what truly supports equine wellbeing.
Inspiration for Smaller Nations
His historic wins show that elite dressage success isn’t limited to traditional powerhouses, talent and kindness can come from anywhere.
A Return to Artistry
Justin’s style reminds riders and judges alike that dressage is an art form rooted in harmony and emotion.
Partnership Over Pressure
His rider–owner dynamic demonstrates the power of long-term connection instead of short-term results.
A Model of Humility and Heart
Justin’s personality brings warmth back into a sport that can sometimes feel inaccessible.
A Bright and Promising Future for Dressage
As an equestrian mindset coach, I find Justin’s rise incredibly inspiring, not just because he wins, but because of how he wins.
He embodies the values that truly elevate our sport:
- listening
- kindness
- patience
- presence
- curiosity
- humility
Dressage needs riders who connect before they correct.
Riders who honour the relationship, not just the ribbon.
Riders who prove that empathy is compatible with excellence.
Justin Verboomen is showing the dressage world that this path isn’t just kind —
it’s successful.
And that is a future I’m excited to see.
Neil