An evening with Justin Verboomen
An evening with Justin Verboomen
Culture

Mon. December 1, 6:00PM

An evening with Justin Verboomen

A special 'Table des Cavaliers' evening celebrating harmony, excellence, and the human bond at the heart of dressage

This special evening invites you into the world of Justin Verboomen, European Dressage Champion and the first Belgian rider to reach World Number 1 in an Olympic equestrian discipline.


Together with his horse Zonik Plus, Justin has transformed the landscape of international dressage — combining grace, strength, and patience in a partnership that has captivated audiences around the world. From Belgium’s first-ever victory in a Dressage Nations Cup to his double European title in 2025, his story is one of quiet determination and extraordinary talent.


Joining him on stage, Frédéric Rouvez, entrepreneur and co-founder of the EXKi restaurant chain, offers the perspective of a close friend and devoted admirer. As witness to Justin’s rise, he reflects on friendship, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence that transcends sport.


Hosted by Table des Cavaliers founder Fabio Ghezzi Morgalanti, the conversation explores what lies beyond competition — the invisible dialogue between human and horse, where mastery becomes an act of trust and beauty.

speaker

Justin Verboomen

European Dressage Champion and the first Belgian rider to become World Number 1 in an Olympic equestrian discipline. Justin discovered horse riding as a child at the stables where his father taught, developing an early fascination with the harmony between rider and horse, and he built his reputation in the Lusitano circuit before meeting his lifelong equine partner, Zonik Plus. Together, they rose through the ranks with unwavering patience and precision. In 2025, Justin and Zonik Plus made history — securing Belgium’s first victory in a Dressage Nations Cup, triumphing at CHIO Aachen, and earning double gold at the European Championships in Crozet. Admired for his light, fluid style, Justin embodies a form of excellence rooted in empathy and balance.

speaker

Frédéric Rouvez

Belgian entrepreneur and co-founder of the EXKi restaurant chain. Beyond business, Frédéric is a passionate supporter of the arts, sport, and philanthropy. He serves on the boards of the KickCancer Foundation, the Queen Mathilde Foundation, and WIELS, Centre for Contemporary Art. A close friend and top admirer of Justin Verboomen, he brings to this evening the eye of a connoisseur — someone who recognizes in Justin’s craft the same values that shape entrepreneurship: vision, perseverance, and grace under pressure.

moderator

Fabio Ghezzi Morgalanti

Passionate horse rider and founder of La Table des Cavaliers
Start
Mon. December 1, 6:00PM
End
Mon. December 1, 9:00PM
Format
TheMerode Talks
Language
French (BE) / Français (BE)
Guest allowed?
Yes, 1 per member

Address

Event
Place Poelaert, 6
1000 Brussels
Belgium
Parking
Parking Poelaert, Place Poelaert 1000 Brussels

Detailed programme

Welcome
Mon. December 1, 6:00PM
Start of the conversation
Mon. December 1, 6:45PM
Networking
Mon. December 1, 7:45PM
End
Mon. December 1, 9:00PM

this event is sold out