Wilma Hellström Shines at European Championship Despite Candy Shortage

Wilma Hellström shone and poured praise over her mare Cicci. Two rounds into the European Championship in Casas Novas outside La Coruña the team has not knocked down a single obstacle. But she, Hellström that is, has a problem. The loose candy is unfortunately finished.

» Published: July 17 2025

Wilma Hellström Shines at European Championship Despite Candy Shortage
Photo: Caisa Rasmussen/TT

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The message is thus conveyed. If someone is on their way to the championship or is about to vacation in Galicia: Bring a good dose of mixed Swedish candy.

Mom had bought the world's largest bag that she had with her. It was a bit embarrassing this morning in the stable because the bag was almost finished, says Hellström and laughs.

She quickly tones down the candy dependence.

I have to eat bananas instead.

Hoping for a final spot

If she continues as she has started the European Championship, it may very well end with her and Cicci riding the first round of the individual final on Sunday. This is where the 25 best from Friday's third and final qualifying round will go. After two flawless rounds, the team is in 18th place.

Hellström got her big breakthrough when she was part of the team that took the European Championship gold in Milan in 2023. She was also, until the very end, relevant for the Olympic Games in Paris last summer.

After the initial time jumping, she described the performance as the "best Cicci has ever done". She should have said "so far", because just a day later the mare surpassed herself.

She was just like a dream. I think my smile said it all when I finished. She feels absolutely fantastic. She just loves it in there. Somewhere she grows with the pressure on her. It's an incredible feeling. Now we have to hold on to this all the way.

"Can match her horse"

National team captain Henrik Ankarcrona:

We know that Wilma and Cicci are at this level and can deliver, but it hasn't been done in a while if we're going to be harsh. Somewhere the thought has been to work on it, stick to the plan and we have supported.

Now she shows that she can match her horse in the long term and be at her best when it matters. At least so far in the championship.

Hellström was not alone in delivering under pressure. Debutant Erika Lickhammer van Helmond also went flawlessly on Comme Tessa and made it among the 50 who get to ride on individually.

It was such joy and relief. It's fun to cross the finish line when you're happy, she says.

Angelie von Essen, who is also doing her first championship, knocked down a back pole, but the damage was not worse than that she and Voila get to ride on Friday as well.

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By TTEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for local and international readers

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