The FEI Para Dressage World Championships in Aachen, Germany, were filled with golden moments for the United States, including five individual golds and a record-breaking team victory.  

Marie Vonderheyden and Kate Shoemaker completed a clean sweep of individual, team, and freestyle gold medals, while Fiona Howard added freestyle gold to the team title she’d already helped the U.S. secure.

“We all have high expectations of ourselves, and we know that they don’t always come to fruition, but to come here at the world championship and for the team to produce a record for the highest-ever team score is just incredible,” said U.S. chef d’equipe Michel Assouline.

But beyond the medals and results, there were plenty of other moments worth remembering. Here’s a look back at some of our favorite photos from Aachen.

“There are no words, really. It’s just amazing to have the ride on a horse that feels like she enjoys it so much,” Kate Shoemaker said about Vianne. ©Shannon Brinkman
Marie Vonderheyden was crowned world champion three times in Aachen, including earning an 80.54% with Fan Tastico H in the freestyle. ©Shannon Brinkman
Fiona Howard high-fived Michel Assouline after her gold medal-winning test on Diamond Dunes. ©Shannon Brinkman
The U.S. flag was featured often in medal ceremonies. ©Roy Brinkman for Shannon Brinkman
“I never thought we were going to make it to Aachen. I thought Paris was going to be our swan song. But at 18, she’s happy and fit, so we will see what the future holds,” said Rebecca Hart of her 18-year-old partner Floratina. ©Shannon Brinkman
The U.S. squared cheered for Kate Shoemaker and Vianne. ©Shannon Brinkman
Germany’s Heidemarie Dresing, 71, won two silver medals for Germany in Aachen with her mount Poesie 143. ©FEI/Leanjo de Koster
Helen Brandt (GER) celebrated her Grade IV freestyle aboard Vulkan Vegas IB. ©FEI/Leanjo de Koster
Sara Morganti (ITA) shared a moment with Bond Girl after a Grade I test. The pair earned individual bronze and silver. ©FEI/Leanjo de Koster
Rixt van der Horst (NED) and Eisma’s Royal Fonq NOP earned double golds in Grade III individual competition. ©FEI/Leanjo de Koster
Jemima Green (GBR) celebrated with Fantabulous after earning two individual Grade II medals. ©FEI/Leanjo de Koster

For More:

  • Check out more of our 2026 FEI World Championships event coverage here.
  • Click here for results.