Aaron Raj Khettry, a participant at a past event /HandoutKenya will host the 2025 FEI Dressage World Challenge and the 7 Nations Challenge next weekend at the Nairobi Polo Club. Two teams will represent Kenya—one team in the FEI Dressage World Challenge and the other in the 7 Nations Challenge.
Kenya has a strong history in equestrian sports, with 26 years of experience in competing in the Dressage World Challenge Series every year since joining in 1999.
The FEI World Challenge is a global competition held locally. Riders don’t travel internationally with their horses, thus cutting the travel cost. Each country competes across its own borders under identical FEI Dressage conditions officiated by judges who then compare the results worldwide.
A total of 38 riders will be in action, among them 14 Kenyan citizens alongside international riders who reside in the country, plus four talented juniors under the age of 16 years. Team members were selected based on their performance in the past year of FEI Dressage World Challenge and consistency throughout the season at the national level.
Kenyan horse riders will showcase their rivalry against Africa’s equestrian nations, including Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Eswatini, Botswana and Namibia, making the seven nations compete for territorial accolades.
Kenya started preparations for the event immediately after last year’s series in December, with riders consistently competing at the national level throughout the season. This, according to the organisers, has helped them sharpen their skills and qualify for team selection.
Maria Colliander, a Finnish international judge, alongside other Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) accredited judges, will officiate the competition.
Maria was a judge at the European Championship finals in Basel and was appointed reserve judge at the Paris 2024 Olympics. “Her experience and presence here in Kenya will help the competition align with international standards. The challenge will see riders gain skills and experience, thus promoting the equestrian sport in Kenya.”
The hosts have partnered with the FEI Solidarity, who will provide expertise, education and funds to ensure accessibility and sustainability of the equestrian sport worldwide.
Speaking ahead of the event, the chairman of the Horse Association of Kenya, Louise Collete, said the event will boost morale for Kenyan riders.
“Hosting the FEI Dressage World Challenge is a significant milestone for equestrian sport in Kenya. It not only raises the standard of competition but also inspires the next generation of riders. With the support of FEI Solidarity, we are excited to showcase Kenya’s talent and commitment to the global equestrian community.”
