Werner Wouters Crowned King of the Gansrijders for the Second Time
Hoevenen celebrated a thrilling day of tradition and competition on Sunday, March 15, 2026, as Werner Wouters, 43, was named King of the Koninklijke Gansrijders Hoevenen for the second time. The victory came exactly ten years after his first title, marking a significant moment in the society’s history.
A Century of Tradition and Remembrance
This year’s ganzenrijden (goose riding) held special significance as the Koninklijke Gansrijders Hoevenen celebrated its 100th anniversary. The event was as well marked by remembrance, as the society mourned the loss of long-time member and former board member, Frank Nys, who passed away on March 4th. Despite the recent loss, the spirit of the tradition prevailed, with Nys’s son, Stef, a two-time King himself, participating in the competition. The day began at Verbist farm, with a stop at ’t Uveltje before a procession through Hoevenen.
A Tense Competition on Frans Oomsplein
The competition involved 34 riders, each attempting to ride under the galg (gallows). All riders successfully completed at least one pass under the bar. The final showdown took place on Frans Oomsplein, where Dries Remeysen initially appeared to succeed, but the goose head proved resilient. After a prolonged struggle, Werner Wouters secured the victory in his second attempt, around 6:30 PM.
Celebrating a Champion and a Milestone
Overjoyed with his win, Wouters threw the goose head onto the roof of the church before being crowned as the successor to Bengy Matthysen. The society enthusiastically celebrated their new King under the galg. Wouters, who works at the Borealis chemical company in the Antwerp port, shares his life with partner Katy Van Hecke and their daughter, Alexy. He previously held the title in 2016.
Looking Ahead: The Pursuit of the Keizerschap
Wouters now has the opportunity to compete for the keizerschap (emperorship) next week, aiming to make the anniversary year of the Gansrijders of Hoevenen even more memorable. Bert Verbist was also honored during the festivities, celebrating his 25th year as a rider, having been King in 2002 and Emperor twice, in 2003, and 2005.
What is Gansrijden?
Ganzenrijden is a traditional equestrian sport originating in the Netherlands and Belgium. Riders attempt to ride under a suspended goose head, aiming to remove it with a lance or other tool. It requires skill, precision, and courage.
FAQ
- What is the Koninklijke Gansrijders Hoevenen? It is a society celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, dedicated to the tradition of ganzenrijden.
- Who was crowned King in 2026? Werner Wouters was crowned King on March 15, 2026.
- What happened at the event to honor Frank Nys? Despite his recent passing, the event proceeded as he would have wished, and his son participated in the competition.
Pro Tip: The ganzenrijden is a deeply rooted cultural tradition. Attending the event offers a unique glimpse into the history and community spirit of Hoevenen.
Want to learn more about traditional equestrian sports? Explore more articles on Polderke.
