Bergsåker has unveiled its official program for the upcoming Monte-SM, marking a significant shift toward greater inclusivity for young and amateur riders with the introduction of new R30 classes. The event, held in conjunction with a weekend dedicated to coldblooded horses, features eight high-stakes races and expanded family entertainment zones.
History of the Monte-SM at Bergsåker
The tradition of dedicated Monte racing days at Bergsåker is relatively new but has quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the Swedish equestrian calendar. The concept originated in 2015 when Bert-Ola Månsson proposed a specific competition day reserved exclusively for coldblooded horses, known as "Sleipnerdagen." This initiative was designed to provide a dedicated platform for a horse breed that often competes against warmbloods in mixed events.
Three years later, the scope of these events expanded significantly. On August 4, 2018, Bergsåker launched a dedicated Monte day in collaboration with ST (Statens tidning). The inaugural event was a full-day affair featuring lectures, competitions, and an evening entertainment segment with a troubadour. The event drew notable figures from the equestrian world, including jockey Fredrik Johansson and skiing star Johan Olsson, who attended to support the initiative. - seonextportal
For the first two years of this specific format, the Monte-SM for coldbloods was decided during this dedicated Monte day, alongside the prestigious Hattparaden. This year, the organizers are shifting the focus away from traditional track racing formats. Instead, the emphasis is placed on "bakluckeloppis," a style of racing held on public grounds, which includes family areas with pony riding and grilling. The most significant change, however, is the volume of competition: the event now features eight official Monte races, a substantial increase from previous iterations.
Bergsåker’s sport chief, Mohammed Malla, expressed enthusiasm regarding the upcoming Thursday, noting the strong response received during the registration phase. The organization is actively listening to feedback from riders and trainers to continuously refine the event proposition. The current setup aims to balance competitive integrity with accessibility, ensuring that the event remains relevant for all levels of participation.
Race Programme and Classifications
The core of this year's competition consists of eight distinct races, split between two distinct categories based on the breed of the horse. Three races are designated for coldblooded horses, while five races are reserved for the warmblood breeds. This split ensures that competitors in both disciplines have ample opportunity to showcase their skills and claim victory.
Underlying the immediate excitement of the races is a structural commitment to rider welfare and progression. As has been the standard protocol, each rider is capped at entering a maximum of four races during the event. This rule prevents fatigue and promotes fair competition, ensuring that no single rider dominates the schedule at the expense of others.
A specific highlight for the warmblood division involves the Dutch rider Henk Grift. His horse, Hopium, secured a victory during the previous year's competition day. This year, Grift brings his four-time million-euro winner, Fleuron d'Acadie, to the track. The horse, a son of Ganymede, is scheduled to start in the Paralympic Monte event on Saturday at Åby, further cementing the horse's high status in the racing world.
The schedule is designed to be tight and action-packed, with start tracks to be finalized later in the afternoon. The combination of established stars and emerging talents creates a dynamic environment where the outcome of the Monte-SM remains uncertain until the final race is run.
The R30 Revolution for Amateur Riders
A central pillar of the new event format is the introduction of the R30 classes, a move explicitly designed to broaden the demographic of the Monte sport. These races are open to riders who have participated in a maximum of 30 races during the year 2025. By setting a lower threshold for entry, the organizers aim to make the sport more accessible to those who are less experienced or younger.
This initiative addresses a specific gap in the current equestrian landscape. Often, the high level of experience required to compete at major events can be a barrier to entry. The R30 classes provide a structured pathway for these riders to enter the sport on a competitive level without facing the intense pressure of the open fields immediately.
Staff at Bergsåker point to Ester Toresson as a prime example of the talent that emerges from these lower-tier competitions. Last year, Toresson progressed from the R30 category to compete in over 60 races during the season. Her trajectory illustrates the potential for growth and development that these classes offer, serving as a training ground for future stars of the Monte circuit.
The success of these classes relies on the perception of value among the local equestrian community. By lowering the barrier to entry, the organizers hope to attract a fresh wave of participants who might otherwise have been deterred by the complexity of the sport. This demographic shift could potentially revitalize interest in Monte racing among the younger generation of Swedish horsemen and women.
Top Contenders and Horses
Among the registered horses for the competition, one name stands out as a formidable force: Kingsman. Trained by Jägerskiöld, the horse has demonstrated remarkable consistency, securing six consecutive victories in 2026. His most recent win came at a sprint race in Rättvik, where he proved his stamina and speed.
Kingsman will be ridden by Jonathan Carre, a jockey who has established a reputation for piloting top-tier horses through the competitive circuit. The combination of the horse's undefeated recent record and Carre's skill makes Kingsman a primary contender for the Monte-SM title.
The warmblood section also features a powerhouse. Fleuron d'Acadie, owned and trained by Henk Grift from the Netherlands, has already achieved four million-euro wins in his career. His pedigree, traced back to the renowned sire Ganymede, adds to his market value and competitive edge. The horse is scheduled to start in the Paralympic Monte at Åby on Saturday, indicating a busy schedule that speaks to his high demand among owners and trainers.
These top contenders will face off against a field of horses that have registered for the event, with the starting positions to be finalized later in the afternoon. The mix of proven winners and ambitious newcomers creates a challenging environment where strategy and form play crucial roles.
International Participation
The Monte-SM at Bergsåker is not limited to Swedish competitors. The event has successfully attracted a diverse group of participants from neighboring countries, fostering a sense of international camaraderie within the Nordic equestrian community. Riders and horses from Norway, Finland, and the Netherlands have confirmed their participation, adding a layer of complexity and excitement to the races.
For the international riders, the event serves as a platform to test their equipment against local rivals. The presence of foreign competitors often raises the overall quality of the competition, as they bring different training methods and horses to the track. This cross-border interaction is vital for the development of the sport, allowing for the exchange of ideas and techniques that benefit all participants.
Mohammed Malla, the sport chief at Bergsåker, welcomed the international turnout during the registration phase. The influx of foreign entries demonstrates the global appeal of the Monte discipline and the effectiveness of Bergsåker's efforts to create a welcoming environment for all competitors. The organization continues to listen to feedback from these international guests to ensure they feel supported and valued during their stay.
Entertainment and Facilities
Beyond the racing, the event has undergone significant changes to enhance the spectator experience. The organizers have introduced three ponny races specifically designed for the younger crowd. These races take place in areas that are accessible to families, ensuring that children can engage with the sport in a safe and supervised environment.
Complementing the ponny races are family zones that offer ponny riding activities and grilling stations. This "bakluckeloppis" concept transforms the venue into a community gathering place, where the focus extends beyond the winner's circle to include the broader public. The addition of these facilities is intended to make the event more inclusive and enjoyable for families who may not be experienced riders themselves.
The integration of entertainment is a key strategy for the organizers. By providing activities that appeal to different age groups, the event creates a vibrant atmosphere that encourages attendance. The presence of a troubadour and other cultural elements adds a festive touch to the racing weekend, making it a memorable experience for all attendees.
Future Outlook for the Event
As the Monte-SM approaches, the organizers view the current format as a successful test bed for future innovations. The introduction of the R30 classes and the focus on family entertainment are seen as steps toward a more sustainable and inclusive future for the sport. The feedback loop established with riders and trainers ensures that the event can continue to evolve based on real-world needs.
The success of this year's event will likely influence the planning for future Monte days. If the R30 classes prove popular and the family zones draw large crowds, the organizers may consider expanding these offerings in subsequent years. The goal is to create a balanced event that caters to both the serious competitive rider and the casual spectator.
Bergsåker remains committed to hosting high-quality events that uphold the standards of the Monte discipline while embracing change. The combination of top-tier competition, international participation, and family-friendly amenities positions the event as a leading attraction in the Swedish equestrian calendar. The coming days will determine if this vision translates into a successful weekend of racing and celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the specific purpose of the R30 classes in this year's Monte-SM?
The R30 classes are designed specifically to lower the barrier to entry for amateur and younger riders who may not have the extensive experience required for the open Monte races. By limiting eligibility to riders with a maximum of 30 races in 2025, the organizers create a dedicated category where these competitors can showcase their skills without being overwhelmed by the pressure of the top-tier classes. This initiative aims to foster the growth of the sport by encouraging new participants to enter the competitive arena, providing them with a structured environment to gain experience and potentially progress to higher categories in the future. The success of riders like Ester Toresson, who moved from this category to compete in over 60 races, demonstrates the potential for these classes to serve as a vital foundation for future stars in the Monte discipline.
How many races are scheduled for the Monte-SM, and how are they distributed?
This year's Monte-SM features a total of eight official races, a significant increase from previous years. The races are distributed between two distinct breed categories to ensure fair competition for both participants. Specifically, three races are designated for coldblooded horses, often referred to as " kallblod," while five races are reserved for warmblood breeds. This split ensures that each discipline has a substantial portion of the schedule, allowing for a comprehensive display of talent. Additionally, there are three ponny races included in the program, which are separate from the official Monte-SM ranking but serve as entertainment for the younger attendees and families attending the event.
Which international competitors have confirmed their participation in the event?
The event has attracted a diverse range of participants from across the Nordic region and beyond. Confirmed international competitors include riders from Norway, Finland, and the Netherlands. A notable entry is the Dutch rider Henk Grift, who is bringing his horse Fleuron d'Acadie to the competition. Grift's horse has already achieved four million-euro wins, highlighting the high caliber of international talent participating. Additionally, the presence of these foreign horses and riders adds an element of international competition, allowing local Swedish riders to test their skills against a global standard and fostering cultural exchange within the equestrian community.
What changes have been made to the event format to accommodate families?
Recognizing the importance of family engagement, the organizers have introduced a new "bakluckeloppis" concept that moves parts of the event to public spaces. This includes the addition of three ponny races and dedicated family zones where children can participate in pony riding activities. Furthermore, grilling stations have been set up to provide a communal dining experience, transforming the venue into a more relaxed and inclusive environment. These changes are intended to make the Monte-SM accessible to a broader audience, including those who are not experienced riders. The goal is to create a festive atmosphere where the focus is not just on the competition but also on community and entertainment.
What is the role of the jockey Jonathan Carre in the upcoming races?
Jonathan Carre is set to ride Kingsman, one of the top contenders for the Monte-SM title. Kingsman has demonstrated exceptional form, securing six consecutive victories in 2026, with the most recent win occurring at a sprint race in Rättvik. Carre's experience and skill in handling top-tier horses make him a formidable combination for this competition. His ability to guide Kingsman through the challenging course and manage the horse's stamina over multiple races will be crucial. The partnership between Carre and Kingsman represents a significant threat to the other contenders in both the warmblood and coldblood categories, making them a key pairing to watch throughout the event.
About the Author
Oskar Lindahl is a seasoned sports journalist specializing in Nordic equestrian events and thoroughbred racing. With 12 years of experience covering major horse racing festivals in Sweden, he has reported extensively on the Monte discipline, interviewing over 150 trainers and analyzing racing statistics for regional publications. Known for his detailed analysis of breeding trends and competitive strategies, Lindahl provides insightful commentary on the evolving landscape of the Swedish horse racing industry.