A Majestic Gathering of Black Beauty
Picture this: over 400 stunning black Friesian horses galloping together across the pristine sands of Callantsoog Beach in North Holland. This wasn’t just any casual beach outing—it was the largest edition of the legendary Mega Beach Ride for Friesian Horses, and it absolutely lived up to the hype.
From Dream to Reality: How It All Started
Linda de Jong, the visionary behind this incredible event, never imagined it would become such a phenomenon. What began as a simple idea between friends—to create something truly unique by riding Friesian horses on the beach—has blossomed into an experience that riders add to their bucket lists.
Initially, Linda and her team were nervous about the concept. They posted an ambitious goal online: the ride would only happen if they could gather at least 20 riders. What happened next was magical. Registrations came pouring in, quickly reaching 210 participants, then 329 by the final count. The demand was so overwhelming that organizers had to close registrations—people simply wouldn’t stop signing up!
Who’s Participating? Everyone!
The beauty of the Mega Beach Ride lies in its inclusivity. Participants range from families bonding over their love for horses to repeat attendees (some returning for the fourth time!) and international visitors who travel specifically for this event. Mothers and daughters, horse enthusiasts from around the world—all united by their passion for these magnificent animals.
The organizers do maintain one important safety rule: riders must be at least 14 years old. This ensures the experience remains safe for all participants while protecting younger riders from potential risks.
Age is truly just a number at this event. The oldest participant? A spirited 72-year-old who looked remarkably youthful and energetic, proving that horse lovers have no age limit!
Explosive Growth Year After Year
The numbers tell an incredible story. In 2013, nearly 400 riders participated. By 2016, organizers determined that 400 would be the absolute maximum to maintain quality and safety. Yet by 2019, the latest event saw a staggering 450 participants—proof of just how beloved this experience has become.
Linda no longer works with the breeding organization; instead, she dedicates herself full-time to coordinating this spectacular event alongside her mother Ria and sister Mieke. It’s truly a family affair.
The Massive Effort Behind the Magic
Organizing 400+ horses and riders on a beach isn’t a simple task. Linda emphasizes that while the ride happens once per year, the preparation never stops. The planning process begins more than a year in advance, and on event day, approximately 70 dedicated volunteers spring into action to ensure everything runs smoothly.
The team is fortunate to have partners like Peter and Simone Oudshoorn from Manege Noot, whose facility serves as the official gathering point and coordination hub for the ride.
Watch the Magic Unfold
A Success Beyond Expectations
In a public statement, Linda expressed her enormous enthusiasm about the event’s success and its bright future. Despite a small number of cancellations, every available spot was claimed within hours. The response has been overwhelming and heartwarming.
What started as a passion project and a creative dream has transformed into a beloved tradition that brings together horse lovers from every corner of the globe. For many participants, the Mega Beach Ride for Friesian Horses isn’t just an event—it’s an unforgettable memory in the making, a majestic experience that belongs on everyone’s bucket list.
If you’ve ever dreamed of galloping alongside 400 magnificent black horses across a golden sandy beach, surrounded by fellow equestrian enthusiasts, this is the event for you. Keep an eye out for next year’s registration—it’s sure to sell out fast!