Speaker Adri van de Kreeke has become a familiar face at Jumping Indoor Maastricht. He has been acting as a speaker since 2013. Adri was born in Eindhoven and now lives in Venray with his wife Anja. They have two daughters and one grandson. Adri works for the Rabobank Horst Venray since 1991 and combines his job with his speaker activities.

What has been your favourite edition of Jumping Indoor Maastricht so far?
My favourite edition is, without doubt, the first one I attended as a speaker in 2013. There was a great competitor field and the Dutch riders played an important role. I remember Jur Vrieling and Wout Jan van der Schans winning some classes. In addition Maikel van der Vleuten won the Longines Trophy-Grand Prix of Maastricht.

What is your nicest memory?
I have not a specific one. I realise that Limburg has become an important player in the international equestrian sport and it is endorsed by a great event such as Jumping Indoor Maastricht.

How did you get involved in JIM?
I met Frank Kemperman at the Limburg regional championships, which were held in Maastricht in 2013. Frank invited me to the 2013 edition of JIM. I had already acted as a speaker at several international shows, but this was an enormous step forward.

How do you prepare for an event such as JIM?
I watch, for instance, previous editions on ClipMyHorse. And I search the FEI database. We want to know all about the competitors!

Which combination made a big impression last year and why?
Without doubt: Kim Emmen with Delveaux. For me 2018 was the breakthrough for this young successful rider. They finished in a great third place in the Longines Trophy. And she continued to be successful after JIM. Impressive!

How do you respond to every class and competitor?
By connecting the public to the competitors. I find the emotion in this sport intriguing. The rider who crosses the finish line in full speed with a clenched fist. And the reaction of the spectators: standing, clapping, whistling. I love it!

What makes JIM so unique?
JIM is a great weekend out for equestrian fans. And it is so diverse. International and regional jumping. Great shows and since 2018 the spectacular driving (it is a great experience). In between a snack and a drink in the promo village. That is where the fans meet.

Who is your favourite for the victory in the Longines Trophy-Grand Prix of Maastricht?
As a speaker I have no real favourite. The competitor line-up is always strong in Maastricht. It is always perfect if the times are improved by every rider in the jump-off. It makes it exciting until the very last rider.