From a Childhood Dream to a Thriving Equestrian Center
Our Story
Equestrian Center Hendrikx began with a young girl’s passion for horses and a small stable of four boxes at home. As Suraya’s dedication grew, so did the family’s vision. In 2020, that lifelong dream became a reality with the creation of ECH — a modern training facility built on expertise, family values and a deep love for the sport.
Today, ECH is home to more than 35 horses and a community of riders who share the same devotion to horsemanship. It is a place where passion and professionalism meet, allowing horses and riders to grow in harmony.
Suraya Hendrikx
Suraya is an international dressage rider representing Belgium and currently competing at Grand Prix level. She has taken part in nine European Championships across the youth and U25 divisions and has earned multiple medals at the Belgian Championships.
Her equestrian journey began very early. At just three years old, she received her first Shetland pony — the start of a lifelong passion. Growing up in a family of riders with a veterinary background, Suraya developed a deep love for animals and the sport. At age nine she received her first D-pony, a 3-year-old stallion that was not yet saddle broken. With the support of her parents and the guidance of her aunt, renowned dressage rider Jeannette Haazen, she entered her first regional competitions at age ten.
Suraya’s talent quickly became evident. Together with her pony — with whom she built an exceptional partnership — she progressed from regional shows all the way to the international pony circuit. After a successful pony career, she moved into the junior classes, continuing to excel across all youth categories and establishing herself as a consistent, elegant competitor.
Today, Suraya competes at Grand Prix, proudly representing Belgium on the international stage. Over the years she has achieved strong results, won valuable titles, and steadily expanded the ECH stable with high-quality horses that she trains herself.
Suraya develops all her horses from a young age up to Grand Prix level. Alongside her own competitive career, she also coaches riders of all levels with dedication and precision.
She is currently training under the guidance of Jacqueline Fiechter.
Rudi hendrikx
Rudi Hendrikx is a deeply respected figure within the equestrian world and a true cornerstone of Equestrian Center Hendrikx. He is the devoted father of Suraya and plays an essential role both behind the scenes and in the daily life of the stable.
Rudi is a veterinarian by profession. His career began at the University of Ghent, where he graduated in 1994 as an equine veterinarian. Over the years, his expertise broadened to include small animals, and he founded one of Belgium’s most reputable veterinary clinics in Lanaken. The clinic reflects his dedication, knowledge and the trust he has built within the veterinary community.
Alongside his professional work, Rudi has always remained closely connected to horses. He started riding at the age of fourteen, trained by his aunt, Jeannette Haazen, and soon developed into a skilled rider. His talent and commitment even led him to become Dutch champion in several classes — achievements that highlight his natural feel in the saddle. Although his focus later shifted to building his veterinary practice, his passion for riding never faded.
Today, Rudi still rides some of the young horses at ECH, giving them confidence and a correct foundation. He also takes care of the foals in the field, ensuring their health, growth and early development. His calm approach and deep understanding of horses make him an invaluable presence for both the animals and the team.
Rudi’s story is one of dedication — to his family, to his profession, and to the horses that have always been at the heart of his life.
Nathalie van de meerakker
Nathalie is the loving mother of Suraya and co-owner of Equestrian Center Hendrikx. She is a rider herself and enjoys the sport as a hobby, competing at regional Level 4. Her passion for horses began at a young age, inspired by her aunt, Jeannette Haazen, who first introduced her to the equestrian world at her riding school.
Today, Nathalie rides her gelding Lord Belstaff Sun (by Lord Sinclair), with whom she forms a harmonious and dedicated partnership.
In addition to her role at the stable, Nathalie works as a veterinary assistant at the family’s veterinary clinic — a profession that aligns seamlessly with her lifelong love for animals.
Nathalie’s story reflects the deep influence of horses and the strength of family bonds. Her passion enriches her daily life, supports her family’s equestrian journey, and keeps her closely connected to the world she has loved since childhood.