In 2001, Ludo rode Parco to his first victory in a World Cup competition. And that was not all: Ludo received silver at the European Championship in Arnhem. Another exceptional example of jumping from Otterongo. And the crowning achievement of a spectacular career – a podium position at a championship of this level had previously eluded Ludo. The whole of Gruitrode followed on the edges of their seats. And celebrated enthusiastically.
For Ludo, Otterongo appeared to be the undisputable equestrian athlete of 2001 – with at least 15 top-ten finishes. The Philippaerts name was more highly regarded than ever: Ludo was one of the ten best riders in the world.
Those in the know watched Ludo’s competitions with great expectations. And he didn’t disappoint. He proudly defended the Belgian flag at the Nations Cup in Aachen and collected the main prize in the process. Later, in Madrid, he was met with another honour: that of best rider during the full Samsung Nations Cup. An exceptional performance.
In the meanwhile, a rumour was spreading through the tribunes: Ludo would join forces with the top riders Jos Lansink and Mark Van Dijck. It turned out, that the rumours were true. At the Jumping van Mechelen, it became official: Ludo joined his colleagues to form team Zangersheide. For the next few years, he rode in noble blue on the most challenging courses.
