Waregem Koerse unveils two new obstacles

The Wave and Double Barrière are the result of thorough analysis, international site visits, consultation with experts and a clear ambition to further optimise the steeplechase course.

In-depth analysis and international inspiration

Following the regrettable incident during one of the steeplechase races at the previous edition — which left a lasting impression on the board and all those involved with Waregem Koerse — a thorough evaluation was immediately set in motion.

The day after the meeting, the board and its staff convened for an initial debriefing. This was followed by an extensive review of race footage from the past ten years. On the basis of this analysis, the decision was taken to replace two obstacles: the Irish Bank and the Open Ditch.

Waregem Koerse looked beyond its own borders for inspiration, making several visits to the racecourses of Auteuil and Compiègne, where comparable jump racing is held.

From consultation to concrete action

In addition to the internal evaluations and international visits, Waregem Koerse held extensive discussions with trainers, owners and equestrian experts. Minister Weyts, Professor Pille from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Ghent University and Michel Vandenbosch of GAIA were among those consulted. Michel Vandenbosch also visited the course in person to inspect the new obstacles.

Alongside the replacement of the two obstacles, the conditions of entry have also been revised: horses competing in the steeplechase races must henceforth be at least five years of age. The maximum number of runners in jump races has been reduced from fourteen to twelve per race.

The new obstacles

The two new obstacles were officially presented at a press conference on 5 May 2026.

The first obstacle is named The Wave and is located after the bend near Sport Vlaanderen. The name was chosen to reflect the smooth, undulating movement horses make as they negotiate the fence. The Wave consists of an ascending element with a small brush fence of 90 cm, followed by a gradually sloping landing ramp, and a take-off with a second brush fence of 90 cm.

The placement was also carefully considered. The Wave was deliberately positioned after the bend near Sport Vlaanderen, a point on the course where horses are naturally travelling at a lower pace than on a straight. This ensures the new obstacle fits naturally into the rhythm of the race.

The second new obstacle has been named Double Barrière. It is a mobile fence constructed from bamboo.

For the Double Barrière, Waregem Koerse drew inspiration from a similar fence at the Compiègne racecourse, designed by Mr. Macaire, trainer of the winning horse in the ING Steeple Chase of Flanders at the previous edition. In Waregem too, the choice fell on a fence with a strong visual presence, yet built from fine, pliable bamboo to minimise the risk of injury on contact.

Practical information

Waregem Koerse takes place on Tuesday 1 September 2026 at the Waregem Racecourse.
The full programme, including all sporting highlights and entertainment, can be found at www.waregemkoerse.be.

© 2025 Koninklijke Waregemse Koersvereniging