For the first time in history, the World Championship for Pair Driving will take place in Beekbergen during the Paardenspektakel Beekbergen from August 20 to 24. As the chairman of this prestigious event, John Berends plays a key role in the organization. The former King’s Commissioner of Gelderland shares his vision and ambitions for the championship. We spoke with him about his role in the event, his perspective on the competition, and what he hopes to achieve with this World Championship.
From sailing to driving
Berends has a diverse background in sports, but equestrianism has always held a special place in his heart. “I have been riding horses since I was young. In addition, I did a lot of sailing, but at some point, you have to make choices. Horses bring me peace and reflection—something I have always valued in my career in public administration.”
Although he does not come from the competition world, Berends follows equestrian sports from a recreational perspective. “I am particularly involved with Friesian horses. My choice for this breed was deliberate: it is both a show horse and a working horse. I have also always taken lessons because I believe continuous learning is essential in this sport. Habits are easily formed.”
The step toward the World Championship for Pair Driving
This year marks Berends’ first involvement with Paardenspektakel Beekbergen, where he serves as chairman of the organizing committee. “My role is primarily to guide the process and ensure the right decisions are made to make the event a success. The specialists—the people who know everything about horses and competitions—are already here. My task is to ensure optimal collaboration and to set strategic directions.”
Engaging a broader audience
The event attracts around 20,000 visitors each year. With the addition of a country fair and side activities, Berends aims to expand the audience and reach of the event. “Of course, equestrian enthusiasts remain a core focus, but the World Championship for Pair Driving has a much broader appeal. The location in Beekbergen, surrounded by nature, makes it attractive to outdoor enthusiasts, families, and local visitors. That’s why we are actively working with regional and local media to reach a wider audience. Apeldoorn is, after all, the green and royal capital of the Veluwe, and we want to showcase that.”
Gelderland as the equestrian province
According to Berends, Gelderland has developed into the leading equestrian province in the Netherlands. “With the KNHS center in Ermelo and events like this World Championship, Gelderland is a hotspot for equestrian sports. The province also has a rich tradition in driving and offers numerous recreational opportunities, such as the Veluwe trails.” Looking ahead, Berends sees great potential for the event’s future. “It’s important to think strategically about the long term. What events do you want to host here regularly? Which audiences do you want to attract? And how can we further improve the facilities? Right now, our focus is on organizing this World Championship, but I certainly have the ambition to host similar competitions in the years to come.”
The strength of the event
With extensive experience in organizing major events, including Serious Request and national sports championships, Berends knows what it takes to make an event successful. “The combination of top-level sport and a broad audience is essential. The World Championship for Pair Driving offers that opportunity and has the potential to become a staple on the international equestrian calendar.”
With preparations in full swing and a clear vision in place, the World Championship for Pair Driving at Riant Equestrian Centre in Beekbergen promises to be a highlight of the summer. The event will bring together the world’s best pair drivers, competing for the coveted world title. Several top names have already confirmed their participation and are in full preparation mode.