Farewell to Derby Event - Audience records emotions, sheds tears.
While Volker Wulff (67) turned emotional during his final award ceremony in Hamburg Klein-Flottbek, he wiped his eyes as the Derby staff notified him that they would not be renewing their contract with his agency, "En Garde."
The North German and Flottbek Riding Club decided to transfer the control of this traditional event to dressage rider Matthias Alexander Rath (39) in 2025, stepping up a power struggle with NFR Chairman Dietmar Dude (82).
"It's been an incredible journey," said Wulff after a highly successful week with 104,000 spectators. "A time that defined us, and one we cherished deeply. This event has a special place in our hearts, and I truly hope it continues to thrive. It deserves nothing less."
Throughout the entire week, neither Rath nor Dude bothered to say a word to Wulff. Their communication, when any, was limited to matters related to each other.
"Rath's team was here, measuring, taking photos, and copying a lot," Wulff added. Additionally, Wulff's contract doubled as a condition for the newcomer to assume full control - securing the site from Baron von Jenisch with a renewed lease agreement, completing the refugee housing project at the Botanical Gardens, losing some parking spaces, and more. By January 1st, numerous logistical elements had changed; Wulff must maintain the grounds while Rath is prohibited from selling any tickets until then. This caught many loyal spectators off-guard, denying them the opportunity to secure their usual seats well before the event.
"We expressed our concerns to the NFR and their newly assigned contractual parties multiple times," mentioned Wulff. "We've also suggested finding a solution for this contract-related dilemma, but no one has even responded."
Other sponsors, some of whom are connected to Wulff on a personal level, are also contemplating their involvement in the derby. Albert Darboven, who served as the title sponsor at 88, is reportedly reconsidering his participation.
However, Wulff noted emphatically, "I have zero desire to disrupt the Derby." In other words, the unresolved contract brings the question of monetary compensation to the table.
As for Rath, he's been evasive when discussing his plans for the Derby. Insider news suggests that Rath intends to upgrade the dressage derby, revolutionize ticketing with digital processes, and ensure each visitor experiences increased entertainment.
One thing's for sure: Wulff won't be present for the 93rd edition of the show on June 1, 2025. Still, regardless of the situation, he wished Rath the very best: "This bed's a bit crumpled right now. You've got to iron out those kinks before it becomes pretty uncomfortable."
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Source: symclub.org
