Veterinary Advisory Committee gives recommendations on PROK
In the summer of 2023, the PROK requirement was reintroduced within the stallion selection process. At the same time, the General Board formed a Veterinary Advisory Committee to reassess the current PROK requirement. This group of renowned veterinarians and radiologists has formulated several recommendations that the General Board has adopted.
The main objective of the KWPN is to breed horses that can perform at the highest level in sports. Ensuring the correct selection based on health characteristics is important to maintain the distinguishing feature of the studbook. For this reason, the approved stallions themselves must be sufficiently healthy, enabling breeders to make better choices and breed more sustainable horses.
Gold standard
The Veterinary Advisory Committee consists of members of the PROK committee (Gijs Jan van Selm, Bart Veldeman, Hans Peeters, and Hank van Campen), supplemented with practical experience via Arie Hoogendoorn, Don van de Winkel, and Jacques Maree. For the scientific basis and assessment, they are supported by radiologists A.J. van den Belt and Stephanie Veraa from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. As mentioned, this committee has examined the recalibration of the evaluation of the radiographic images. Veterinarian Hank van Campen explains: "The PROK examination, which stands for Project Radiographic Examination KWPN, has been in existence since 1997 and has given the KWPN a significant advantage in terms of health breeding goals. Other studbooks have largely copied this method of selection. We saw that this was slowly eroding our advantage. Additionally, breeding progresses in a certain direction, including health. Since 1997, only a few minor changes have been made to the PROK requirement. Therefore, it was time to assess PROK in light of today's horse, so that tomorrow's breeding product can also meet the high health standards of the KWPN. With this, we aim to establish a norm that will once again become the gold standard for the coming years, even internationally."
Recalibration and incidental findings
The Veterinary Advisory Committee began by inventorying abnormalities and variations encountered in practice. Van Campen explains: "We looked at everything we encounter on X-rays that is abnormal, such as chips, flattening, and cysts. Then we looked at the degree of heritability and clinical relevance: there may be an abnormality, but how likely is it that the horse will have problems with it in the future? If, for example, an abnormality rarely or never leads to future lameness, that particular X-ray image is not clinically relevant, and there is no need to select for it as a studbook. For each abnormality, we have assessed its clinical relevance, determining whether it could hinder the KWPN's breeding goal of achieving the highest level during the sports career. By compiling all possible information from practice and science, we try to reach a consensus on whether or not we want to select based on each skeletal part."
Extra photos of fetlocks and knees
This insight has led to several adjustments aimed at better alignment between the evaluation of the PROK radiographic images and the sports examination. One of the adjustments is the expansion of the number of required X-ray images, with four additional shots (two of the fetlocks, two of the knees) being taken. Incidental findings with proven clinical relevance are taken into account in the assessment for awarding the PROK predicate. Van Campen explains: "Previously, the hind fetlock was only photographed laterally, and now we supplement that with photos from the front. The same applies to the knees; we now also take extra photos from a different direction. These additional shots are mainly aimed at ruling out clarifications in bone structure, the so-called cysts."
Weighing in genomic breeding values
The Veterinary Advisory Committee advises that in the case of class B or C in the hock (sagittal tibiakam class B-C, lateral trochlear ridge talus class B) and class B in the knee (lateral trochlear ridge femur), the osteochondrosis (OC) genomic breeding value should be considered. If the OC genomic breeding value is 100 points or higher, a stallion can be accepted for performance testing. This advice is based on the addition of genetic information represented by the osteochondrosis genomic breeding value. By combining the radiographic images with the OC genomic breeding value, the two measurement tools reinforce each other.
Change in date of X-ray imaging
Until now, mares and stallions could be X-rayed for PROK from April 1st of the year they turn two. This date will be moved for stallions to September 1st, meaning two-year-old stallions will be X-rayed five months later. The Veterinary Advisory Committee indicates that genetic reparative capacity between April and September can still affect the X-ray status. However, other parts of the skeleton also undergo changes during this early developmental phase of the horse. Furthermore, it is essential to have up-to-date X-ray images during the stallion selection process. For mares, a different arrangement applies: from April 1st to September 1st, 2024, there is the possibility to request the PROK examination under the regular conditions. From September 1st, 2024, the new conditions described above also apply to mares.
X-raying of the back and neck
The Veterinary Advisory Committee proposes initiating an extensive study to accurately investigate the relationship between the presence of Kissing Spines and clinical symptoms. Data collection is considered the primary task. Don van de Winkel explains: "In addition to abnormalities that pose a high risk of lameness, there are also abnormalities that may not pose a high risk to future sporting use but may cause problems in the event of sale. An example of this is Kissing Spines, which literally means that the 'spinous processes' of the spine can kiss each other: they touch each other. It is not unusual for these processes to touch; the space between them often varies anyway. If you look at the horse's spine, it has a certain curvature. Additionally, the processes of the withers point backwards, at the last thoracic vertebra, the direction changes, and from the lumbar vertebrae, the tips point more forward. So, it is logical that at the deepest point of the back, the space between the processes is smaller, or they even touch each other. There is a large anatomical variation in this. Kissing Spines may not pose a risk in itself; problems can arise when there is a lot of bone reaction such as new bone formation or bone resorption. But even in that case, it may not necessarily lead to back pain; there are many degrees of severity possible. So, you have to be careful about drawing conclusions. What we want to find out is which degree will predictably lead to problems."
Kissing Spines are assessed according to the research of Zimmerman, Dyson, and Murray, where X-rays of the spine are classified on a scale from 1 to 7. For stallion selection, classes 6 and 7 are no longer accepted. For mares, assessment of back and neck photos can be requested, but this is still outside the norms for obtaining a PROK predicate. Currently, selection based on neck photos is not conducted, but the committee intends to inventory what is happening within the population in the coming years, to make future selection choices based on that information. Van de Winkel states: "What genetic trends do we see in the abnormalities? Especially in the area of the back, we want to inventory and gather knowledge. However, we will select for significant abnormalities—grades 6 and 7 on a scale of 7. Because we don't want breeding stallions with a deformed back in the industry. We will use the results of the inventory to look into the future regarding the heredity of the back, to determine if we may need to adjust genetic selection. Additionally, we will embark on a study to explore the relationship between various grades of back abnormalities and sports performance. Specifically, at what grade of back abnormality do we see a negative impact on sports results? Hopefully, this will provide us with a lot of useful information to keep the KWPN horse healthy: a very important quality criterion, alongside traits such as temperament and talent."
Text: Charlotte Dekker
Image: Anniek de Wit
19 March 2024 | 13:44
Longread: Kars Bonhof feels completely at home at Team Nijhof
The star of Kars Bonhof is rising. The 26-year-old stable rider of Team Nijhof had a convincing year and was even selected for the European Championships in Milan with the KWPN stallion Hernandez TN N.O.P. Although they didn't actually participate, this year he is setting his sights on the Olympic Games. Thanks to a group of other stallions, the passionate rider is thriving with Team Nijhof.
It was certainly not a foregone conclusion that Kars Bonhof would start working at the prestigious stallion stable in Geesteren about four years ago. "I had nothing to do with breeding, and riding stallions wasn't my immediate preference. So, without great expectations, I had a conversation with the Nijhof family, and I was pleasantly surprised. In terms of ambitions in sports, we turned out to be completely aligned. They are true horse people, and they give me all the space to further develop. The decision to work for them has proven to be one that I have not regretted for a single day," says the rider enthusiastically.
Start at the Juniors
The expression 'what is good comes quickly' seems to apply to Kars Bonhof, but his sporting successes are indeed the result of years of preparation, intensive training, and, above all, a long-term vision. When all the pieces of the puzzle fall into place, success follows. When people hear Kars' last name, many immediately link it to trainer Wim Bonhof. "That's my father's cousin, and I've trained with him regularly in recent years. He still helps with the dressage work every month. My parents rode as a hobby, and they made sure I could start with ponies. My father works as an accountant, my mother works at the Morssinkhof family's stable. Since the moment my ponies were sold, she started working there. By now, they appreciate that I have been able to turn my hobby into my job, but it's not like they stand by the ring every weekend." The transition from pony to horse was not without challenges, but Kars already achieved success at the Juniors. "In the year I turned eighteen, I started riding at the Juniors. At the beginning of the year, I rode in the 1.30m, and later that same year, I was selected for the European Championships in Wiener Neustadt with Tennessee V, whom I rode for his owners." That marked the end of Kars' studying life because, after one year of HBO Business Administration, he gave it up. "For me, it was already certain that I wanted to continue in equestrian sports. Fortunately, it turned out well. First, I rode with Jurgen Stenfert, and I learned a lot from him. Then I started at Wassim Anzarouti's Sham Stables. I rode there for four years and achieved several good results." In 2016, at the age of nineteen, Kars won his first Big Price at the seniors with the Calido I daughter Casina at Jumping De Achterhoek. Two years later, he participated in the European Championships for Young Riders in Fontainebleau with Zentos (by Zento). Even then, Kars did not hide his ambitions. Reaching the world's top is his goal. "At some point, my best horses were sold at Sham Stables, so I had to take a step back in terms of sports. Not long after that, I received the offer from the Nijhof family," reflects Kars.
Sports enthusiasts
The first contact with the Nijhof family came through Henk Jr.'s son, Cameron. "I had known Cameron for a while through soccer. Every Monday, we played soccer with a group of riders and horse guys, but I had never delved into their business. When they proposed to sit down for a discussion, I was a bit sceptical because it's a stallion stable, but that turned out to be unnecessary. They are true sports enthusiasts, especially Cameron, who is so driven. I immediately got good horses to ride, and I really enjoy riding stallions now. It brings a different kind of pressure, but stallions often have something extra." An additional advantage, as Kars has now experienced, is that the breeding stallions are not sold quickly or at all at Team Nijhof. "If the stallions perform well in both sports and breeding, they are not being sold. That gives me as a rider peace of mind and the opportunity to pursue long-term sporting goals. That is definitely an advantage of riding so many approved stallions." It's easy to guess who his favorite is: his top horse Hernandez TN N.O.P. This KWPN stallion, bred by Willem Dekker, quickly developed into a Grand Prix horse with Kars. "Things have gone very quickly with Hernandez in the last two years. It started at the beginning of 2022 at the Sunshine Tour, where he immediately caught the eye. Thanks to that, we got the opportunity last year to participate in the EEF Series, which is a Nations Cup competition at the three-star level. There, we gained a lot of experience and could show how we perform under pressure. My focus is on the outdoor season with Hernandez, and last year we could start strong again in Spain. He made a good impression on the national coach there, and then we achieved a good result at the Dutch Championships. From that moment on, things moved quickly."
Back in form
After making their debut at CSI5* level in Rotterdam and Dublin in the summer of 2022, they also competed in their first World Cup event in the same season, performed well in the CSIO4* EEF Final in Warsaw, and finished sixth in the Sires of the World in Lanaken. Kars and the Kannan son continued their strong performances in 2023, starting again in Vejer de la Frontera. After notable achievements in Rotterdam (fourth in the Grand Prix) and Falsterbo (double clear in the Nations Cup and eighth in the Grand Prix), they were even selected for the European Championship in Milan. This would have been Kars' first championship at the senior level, but it didn't happen in the end due to a minor injury. However, the duo is now back on track. "I got Hernandez when he was eight years old and built him up very gradually. Due to an infection, his eye was damaged and had to be removed when he was seven years old. He is naturally a sensitive horse, and as a result, he became quite anxious. His quality and ability were clear to me early on, but the question was how well he would continue to develop. I took my time, tried to give him a lot of confidence, and never got angry, as that would have had a abortive effect on such a sensitive horse. He is super cooperative, so I trusted him. We started at 1.20m, and once he had confidence in me, things progressed very quickly. However, he doesn't perform as well indoors; the obstacles often come up quickly around the turns, which is not ideal for him." With gleaming eyes, Kars carefully looks ahead to the major championship scheduled for this summer: the Olympic Games in Paris. "Of course, that's my big dream, especially with a horse like Hernandez. But everything has to fall into place, especially since only three riders per country can be fielded. We participated in some beautiful competitions last year, such as Dublin and Rotterdam, so that definitely whets my appetite for more. We'll do our very best, and then we'll see where the chips fall."
Eager to learn
Over the past few years, Kars has had several important mentors. "In addition to Jurgen Stenfert and Wim Bonhof, I have also learned a lot from Hans Horn. At some point, he became too busy with his duties as the coach of Israel, and after that, I mainly trained with Willem Greve with the horses from Nijhof. Willem is technically very strong, and he always remains calm. He knows exactly how it works with stallions and always focuses on the long term. We have a lot of discussions, and I can learn a lot from Willem. I also have close contact with our coach, Jos Lansink, which is, of course, very educational. I make the competition schedules in consultation, sometimes with Henk Jr. and also with Jos." In addition, Kars keeps his ears and eyes open at international competitions. "The riders at the five-star competitions are really of a different calibre. It's so interesting to see them at work in the ring and especially in the warm-up area; I learn a lot each time. Those top riders consistently succeed in reaching the top and staying there with different horses. That's a huge challenge, and it's definitely my goal to break into the world's top riders. It has felt quite fast over the past two years, especially thanks to Hernandez, but there are also some good young horses coming up. That gives us good hope for the future."
High expectations
Kars has high expectations for stallions like Poker de Mariposa TN (by Nabab de Rêve), Dorian Grey TN (by Dominator Z), and Cero Blue TN (by Chacoon Blue), which was registered with 91 points by the KWPN at the end of last year. "Poker had a bit of bad luck with injuries, but he will turn nine this year, and I hope we can make significant progress in terms of sport. He will go to the Sunshine Tour and can continue to grow in the shadow of Hernandez. Dorian Grey is a year younger, but I also have high expectations of him. Besides, I have some very good horses turning seven this year; it seems like the best year so far. The horses born in 2017 are from the first year Nijhof purposely kept the better ones, so it's great to see that those choices seem to have worked out well. The Nijhof family selected them at the age of three and tried to keep the best ones, whereas previously, they were almost always sold from the rearing. Cero Blue comes from that year, and he is a truly special horse. I got him to ride when he was five, and I wasn't surprised by the points he received at his KWPN approval because he has a lot of potential. It's great to train such a horse. No one can predict what the future holds, but we are definitely hopeful."
Stallion power
Additionally, Kars has several younger stallions that he rides, and they appeared in the Blom Stallion Jumping Competition, among other events. "With these young horses, I find it challenging to predict who will be the best, but they are all quality horses to work with. The Nijhof family is also critical because keeping a stallion that isn't good enough makes no sense for them. Onassis shows very promising things and gives a good feeling; he is definitely a horse for the future. O'Connor is slightly more classic in type but has a lot of power and is super careful. A year older is Newmarket VM, who continues to develop well. I can't predict where it will end with such horses. The feeling is very good in any case, and I enjoy working with them every day. Of the just four-year-old stallions, I have high expectations of Drummer, who was approved by KWPN last winter. I trained him myself for the performance test, and he has extremely hot blood, especially for such a large horse. That will be very advantageous for high-level sport, as you need that in the Nations Cup competitions."
Long-term
Performing at the highest level is what Kars has always dreamed of, but he also derives a lot of satisfaction from training young horses. Having mainly stallions to ride at Nijhof brings certain obligations. "Breeders attach great importance to the performance of the stallions, so it's essential for us to make a good impression at competitions such as the Stallion Competition, KWPN Championships, the KWPN Stallion Show, and, of course, the World Championships in Lanaken. For me as a rider, it's nice to perform well in such competitions, but they are not the ultimate goal. The focus here is always on the long term, and fortunately, that aligns well with the vision of the Nijhof family. The goal is to reach the highest level with the stallions. As a rider, I prefer that the stallions cover a lot at a young age so that the focus can shift more towards sport afterwards. The combination of covering and competing is not ideal for every stallion; it also requires a lot from their bodies. Although I'm definitely not an expert in breeding, I understand that it's crucial for young stallions to have the opportunity to prove how good they are as sires with a decent number of different mares. If a stallion doesn't cover anything, he's not interesting for a stallion owner to keep. At Nijhof, they are very down-to-earth and realistic; Hernandez covered the entire season last year, and with Grandorado, they gave priority to sport for a while. You have to look at each stallion individually, and fortunately, they are also willing to give priority to sport when necessary."
Completing the picture
In addition to having several excellent horses and a large dose of ambition, motivation, and drive, the good team at the stable contributes to Kars' success. "At the stable, we have a very good second rider, so I can leave the other horses with confidence when I'm at a competition. We work with a young and motivated team, and things are going smoothly. Regarding the horses and planning, I have a lot of discussions with Henk, but he also gives me a lot of freedom. That gives a lot of confidence. By now, we know what to expect from each other. I'm looking forward to seeing how the horses develop this coming season and hope to show what we're worth with Hernandez this summer. Of course, I hope to take the orange jacket out of the closet several times in 2024. But being able to work with such good horses every day with so much pleasure is and remains the most beautiful thing," concludes Kars Bonhof.
Text: Jenneke Smit
Image: Jessica Pijlman
18 March 2024 | 16:03
First saddle presentation of dressage stallions successful
The stallion inspection committee convened today in Ermelo to assess seven dressage stallions as part of the first saddle presentation of the spring examination.
Six four-year-old dressage stallions, designated for the performance test last year, along with the six-year-old Everest (by Especial), were presented today by their own riders at the KWPN center. "Since I was appointed chairman of the stallion inspection committee last autumn, this was the first time I saw the six four-year-old stallions, as they were designated a year earlier. My colleagues were enthusiastic about the positive development these stallions have undergone, both in terms of conformation and movement, they generally made a good impression. This also applies to the older stallion Everest, who was designated for the performance test this year in Den Bosch," says Bart Bax. After each group, the findings of the stallion inspection committee were discussed with the owners. "We try to be as transparent as possible and have engaged in dialogue with the owners to address any areas for improvement and let them know our impression of the stallions. We expect these stallions to return for the second saddle presentation on April 9th." On that day, the delivery of the three-year-old stallions is also scheduled.
JS for KWPN
15 March 2024 | 13:15
Descendant reports dressage and jumper stallions published
Today, the descendant reports of eleven dressage and eight showjumping stallions have been published. You can find the descendant reports for the respective stallions in the KWPN Database, under the heading 'Descendant Report'.
These dressage stallions include Secret Lover, O’Toto van de Wimphof, Opoque, Nordic Blue Hors, Noble Prince Norel, Nalegro, Nashville Star, Newport, New Orleans, Mauro Turfhorst, and Extreme U.S. For the jumper stallions, they are Night Life VDL, Neymar VDL, Napardi, Messini de F, Newmarket VM, Lord of Farmings HS, McAllister VDL, and Kincsem.
Guide
For each stallion that would normally have participated in the descendant evaluation, the genetic profile is displayed in the descendant report. Stallions must have at least ten scored foals for this evaluation. Vertically, all characteristics that are scored are displayed. Each characteristic always has two extremes, for example, the characteristic 'body: direction'. One extreme is an 'upward body direction', the other extreme is 'downward body direction'. The blue bars represent the breeding value graphically; if a stallion breeds towards 'upward', the blue bar will swing to the left. The associated breeding value will then be below 100 because 100 is the average breeding value of all KWPN riding horses. If the stallion breeds 'downward' compared to the KWPN riding horse population, the blue bar will swing to the right, and the breeding value will be above 100. The stallion can pass on a characteristic to a greater or lesser extent. This is indicated by how far the bar swings to the left or right and therefore also by the height of the breeding value.
Old versus new
In the middle, two vertical columns with numbers are shown. The left column 'old' contains the breeding value before scoring the foals, the right column 'new' is the breeding value after scoring the foals. By comparing these two, the differences are visible, indicating whether a stallion breeds differently compared to the old situation. A difference of only a few points in breeding value between the old and new situation is not so significant that the stallion suddenly breeds completely differently, especially if it goes in the same direction. To further clarify the old and new situations, the new breeding values are indicated with the dark blue bars, and the old breeding value with the vertical orange (I) dashes, up to where the bar would have reached in the old situation. The light blue part indicates the change between old and new.
Source: KWPN
12 March 2024 | 16:20
Longread: Carambole fully deserves the highest distinction
Two years after being awarded keur, Carambole, the multiple Grand Prix winner, has now been honoured as a preferent stallion. At the KWPN Stallion Show, the top sire appeared once more under the saddle of Willem Greve and received a standing ovation from the audience. With offspring such as Quantum Robin V, Hello Senator, Fecynelle, Frasier, Elien, and Cote d'Or Z, he has already proven his significant value in breeding.
In Den Bosch, Carambole appeared once more under the saddle of his regular rider, Willem Greve. Together, they have achieved great sport accomplishments, and in January 2023, Carambole bid a fitting farewell to the sport at Jumping Amsterdam. That he is still in top shape at 20 years old was evidenced during the honouring at the KWPN Stallion Show, where he cantered around like a young stallion.
Meant a lot
His breeding achievements earned him the highest predicate: preferent. It was a beautiful moment to also reflect on his impressive sport career. Inspector Henk Dirksen said, "Carambole was born in Holstein and was acquired in the autumn of 2007 by the Dutch stallion owners Gerardus Post and Jan Greve, who discovered him at the stable of the Dutchman Tjeert Rijkens in Elmshorn. As a four-year-old, Carambole was registered with high scores at KWPN. He achieved a 9.5 for his technique and nines for his reflexes and ability as a showjumper. Subsequently, the stallion was very successfully trained by Willem Greve, with whom he performed excellently in Grand Prix and Nations Cup competitions. Several of his offspring are already performing at the highest level in sport or proving their worth in breeding. Carambole has meant a lot to both Dutch sport and breeding, and this has been made possible by his discoverers, owners Gerard and Gerda Korbeld, and of course his rider Willem. Unfortunately, his owners cannot be present at this honouring, but they will undoubtedly follow it via the live stream," said Dirksen. Gerardus Post and Jan Greve were involved in the honouring in Den Bosch, as they contributed to the success of the preferent sire Carambole.
Simply the best
During the honouring, beautiful words from Willem Greve were heard, summarizing how much the rider still adores his 'once in a lifetime' horse Carambole. "You have made me feel things that no other horse has made me feel. You have made me a better rider, a better horseman; you have jumped the toughest courses all over the world and always given your all. You have done everything for me, and I am eternally grateful to you. You were, are, and will always be 'simply the best' for me, Carambole!" The duo performed from early 2012 to the end of 2021 in international sports. In October of that last year, they had a shining moment in the Nations Cup final in Barcelona, where Carambole, at the age of 17, pulled off a crucial faultless round, securing the main prize for the Dutch team. Other memorable victories were achieved in the 1.60m Grand Prix of Amsterdam and the 1.55m Grand Prix events of Drachten, Hardelot, and Knokke. "From the start, Carambole has always performed excellently, and we have had wonderful highlights. What I find most beautiful is how, at an advanced age, he proved his worth again in the Nations Cup final, jumping in the same autonomous manner as he did when he was four years old, once again delivering a faultless round for the Netherlands," praised Willem the stallion.
Strong inheritance
Out of a total of 636 registered offspring now at KWPN, Carambole has already produced a large number of successful horses. At the highest level, he is represented by Quantum Robin V (registered name Iguest W), who won the Grand Prix of CSI4* Prague with Matt Garrigan and was recently sold to top rider Max Kühner, Hello Senator (registered name Everest) ridden by Scott Brash, Elien ridden by Katharina Offel, Formidable ridden by Willem Greve, Fecybelle ridden by Karl Cook, Frasier ridden by Samantha Schaefer, and Fyolieta ridden by Michael Greeve. At the inspections, 31 mares achieved the ster predicate, seven mares were declared keur, and 12 daughters of Carambole are elite. In addition, 18 mares passed the IBOP, two passed the mare test, and - just as importantly - 50 daughters already have the sport predicate. With Fibonacci, Forsyth, Gerardus, and Haynes GH, Carambole has already given four KWPN-approved sons, of which Gerardus has proven to be the most successful in sport, competing at the national 1.45m level under Sophia Lindemann. Additionally, earlier this year, Carambole's son Cote d'Or Z was recognized by the KWPN. This eight-year-old stallion, bred by Dirk Demeersman, has already achieved international success at the 1.40/1.45m level in sport and shows promise for both sport and breeding. It is also positive that the daughters of Carambole are proving their worth in breeding. For instance, the KWPN-approved stallions Lingo van de Watermolen (s.Connect) and Blom Cup champion Mees van de Watermolen (s.Vannan) both come from a dam descending from Carambole. The aforementioned Grand Prix mare Elien has already produced several international offspring herself and is the grandmother of the promising KWPN-approved stallion On the Spot (s.Diamant de Semilly).
Much confidence
Carambole has not covered large numbers, but big names from both sport and breeding have used him on their mares. "What I have always considered a very good sign is that people from the sport have used Carambole a lot. Riders and traders who have seen him at competitions week after week. Pieter Devos, Leon Thijssen, Dirk Demeersman, Paul Hendrix: they have all successfully used him, and almost every weekend I come across good Carambole offspring in sport," said his rider. In the most recent WBFSH Sire ranking, Carambole is ranked 57th. In addition to the previously mentioned top performers, horses such as Hesjedal NL ridden by Erika Lickhammer-Van Helmond, J'Adore ridden by Lalie Saclier, Fresca ridden by Alonso Valdez Prado, and Eye of the Tiger ridden by Evelyne Putters have contributed to Carambole's position. "A stallion can only pass on what he naturally possesses. That's why it certainly doesn't come as a surprise to me that Carambole breeds so well because he is a great natural talent himself. He suits different types of mares; the best is when the mare gives a bit of sharpness in the hind leg over the jump. I am pleased that the KWPN has given him the recognition he fully deserves and hope that this will invite more breeders to use Carambole for their breeding because he has proven himself at the very highest level in both sport and breeding and deserves to cover mares," said Willem Greve. Not only in top sport but also in young horse classes, offspring of Carambole have already achieved remarkable success. His descendants Hello Senator and Formidable both jumped to the bronze medal at the World Championships for Young Show Jumping Horses in Lanaken. Not entirely coincidentally, both then progressed to the Grand Prix level.
All-determining
The life story of the preferent sire had a somewhat challenging start, but Carambole has never caused disappointment. In 2004, he was born at the renowned Holsteiner breeder Jens Ritters, who gave him the name Coloccini. He had used the top sire Cassini I on his State Premium mare Normandie VI (Concerto II x Sir Shostakovich xx). Two years later, Ritters took him to the Holsteiner stallion licensing, but there, Carambole's qualities did not shine through in free jumping, and as a result, he was rejected. In the auction, he ended up in the hands of Tjeert Rijkens as an unlicensed stallion, who initially purchased him with a slight lack of enthusiasm for an acquaintance but soon discovered Carambole's qualities once home. Not long after, Gerardus Post and Jan Greve joined the stallion, on the condition that he was approved by KWPN. This was achieved with a top score of 88.5 points. When Carambole was eight years old, his then owners gave Gerard and Gerda Korbeld the opportunity to purchase him, ensuring that the stallion would remain with Willem Greve and thus also benefit Dutch sport and breeding. Years later, we can conclude that this was a decisive move, with nothing but positive consequences. Given the high percentage of offspring performing in international sport and his strong inheritance of attitude, canter, rideability, and jumping talent, he can further prove his value in breeding in the coming years. Starting from the upcoming breeding season, he will do so as a preferent stallion, an honour reserved for the very best sires in Dutch and global breeding. Carambole has now joined that select group, and he is available for breeding with fresh semen.
Source: Jenneke Smit
Photo: Dirk Caremans
5 March 2024 | 09:24
Longread: Quality across the board leads to 46 selected dressage stallions
The new crop of dressage stallions is exceptionally promising. After 33 stallions were selected for the performance test in Den Bosch last year, this year there were no fewer than 46. The quality across the board is striking, and there is much to be expected from this young generation in terms of variety and bloodlines. In addition to 44 three-year-old dressage stallions, the successful Small Tour stallion Vaderland and Pavo Cup winner Everest are allowed to participate in the test in Ermelo.
The stallion selection committee, consisting of Johan Hamminga, Wouter Plaizier, and this year's chairman Bart Bax for the first time, had an interesting group of stallions to assess in the second viewing. Out of the 97 presented stallions, they were able to extend invitations to 46 for the performance tests. Moreover, the five most complete stallions also earned a premium.
Pure and in balance
In the presentation of the dressage premium stallions powered by Knegt , it was a reunion with a group of five stallions that convinced in terms of conformation, movement, and pedigree. "We have been able to select a couple of very complete stallions, and considering the bloodlines and the variation thereof, we have every reason to look forward with confidence to the performance test," said chairman Bart Bax. "The line that we set out in the first viewing, we have been able to maintain well here in Den Bosch, resulting in a nice number of 46 stallions. We are never led by numbers, but it is characteristic of the good quality across the board. Of course, we have given some stallions the benefit of the doubt, but the majority of the stallions have impressed us both in Ermelo and Den Bosch. In Den Bosch, we also took the pedigree into account in our decision-making process." Bart Bax also looks back with a good feeling on his debut as chairman. "It is always exciting to fulfil such a new role, and I am very happy with the experiences I have gained over the past seven, eight years as an inspector for the mares. That has certainly helped me, not least to document all the information well so that we, as a committee, could come well-prepared. In addition, we have been able to work together very nicely as a team and committee, and we were on the same page. We tried to select stallions with three good basic gaits, focusing on purity in the walk and balance and bend in the hind leg in the canter. Experience teaches us that the walk and canter are not always easy to judge at liberty, so we gave some stallions the benefit of the doubt if purity and balance were present. It's a cliché but it's the truth: the biggest test will take place in the performance test."
Premium stallions
Stallion owner Gertjan van Olst had a very successful edition of the KWPN Stallion Show and had two stallions selected. Out of a total of three selected Glamourdale sons, Rayano (out of Kalista elite IBOP-dres D-OC by Cum Laude, breeder H. Verthriest) made it to a premium stallion. "This long-lined stallion has a lot of presence and a good wither/shoulder area. In movement, he stands out with his very strong use of the hind legs. In canter, he has a lot of balance and impulsion, and can easily change." Additionally, his mother Kalista was well tested with 82.5 points, receiving nines for her trot and rideability. Subsequently, this top talent was sold as the top auction seller for €130,000 in the KWPN Select Sale, remaining in Dutch hands. Like Glamourdale, Van Olst's stallion Lantanas also had three sons selected, including the premium-selected Rumble VDK (out of Cantasia ster pref PROK by Negro, breeders H.R.J. Vorselen) from Van Olst Horses and Domoplan from Brno-Mesto. His mother is a half-sister to the Small Tour horses Esprit (s.Epikur) and Aniko (s.Negro) as well as the Intermediaire II horse D’Angelo (s.Zucchero) owned by Petra van Esch. This is also the damline of the KWPN-approved stallions Just Wimphof (s.De Niro) and O’Toto van de Wimphof (s.Glock's Toto Jr.) and the Grand Prix horse Dolcetto-O (s.Sandreo). "Rumble VDK is an athletically modelled stallion with strong connections. He excels with his good use of the hind legs in all three basic gaits, and doesn't need speed, moving with a lot of impulsion." Also selected was Rockstar Millionaire (s.D’Avie out of Santana van Hof Olympia elite sport-dres pref PROK D-OC by Sandro Hit) bred by Rebecca Dudley and co-registered Yvon Kaptein and MT Stables. "This elegant stallion made a big impression with his good impulsion and leg technique in movement. With a lot of power and bending in the joints, he impressed every round anew." His father D’Avie won the World Championship for young dressage horses twice and now shines at the highest level, while his mother Santana van Hof Olympia competed at ZZ-Licht level. She also produced a ZZ-Zwaar dressage horse and is a sister to several successful sport horses, including the Grand Prix horse Sintano van Hof Olympia ridden by Gareth Hughes and the KWPN-approved stallion Santano. This premium stallion shares the same grandmother as the Grand Prix horses Davos (s.Jazz) and Edmonton (s.Jazz).
Van Uytert
Stallion owner Joop van Uytert also had the opportunity to step forward twice during the presentation of the premium stallion. Firstly, thanks to the selection of Rohan (Jameson RS2 out of Hera keur IBOP-dres sport-dres by Easy Game, breeder Stables Lisman International), which he co-owns with John Tijssen. "This strongly and upwardly built stallion convinced time and again with his good posture and balance in movement." Mother Hera performed at ZZ-Heavy level and Rohan shares the same grandmother as the KWPN-approved Grand Prix stallion and top sire Bordeaux (s.United), who was also bred by the Lisman family and was declared champion at the stallion selection at the age of three. Father Jameson RS2 had three sons selected from his second crop. Committee member Johan Hamminga commented on this: "Last year, we were able to approve a very talented son of Jameson RS2, the registered Proud James with 91 points, and this year, his sons left a good impression. The sons from his second crop have good presence and seem to be able to walk well, something his father initially struggled with." The Small Tour stallion Vaderland had two sons move on to the performance test, including the premium-selected Rome USB (out of Halina ster prok D-OC by Zambuka, breeder S.D.M. Beckers) from Stal Brouwer and Joop van Uytert. "This is a very elegant stallion with a very appealing front and a lot of presence. He moves with a lot of bend in the joints and can switch well in movement. In doing so, he shows a lot of power and impulsion." He comes from a versatile sport damline.
Vaderland
Next to premium stallion Rome USB, Vaderland (Vitalis out of Vechta ster by Krack C), bred by Eugène Reesink, himself appeared in Den Bosch. Dinja van Liere presented this eight-year-old Small Tour stallion under saddle, earning him an invitation for the five-day character assessment. "Vaderland performs admirably in sport himself, and between the first and second inspections, we viewed about ten of his offspring. He is a well-developed stallion with an appealing front end and shows a lot of potential for higher-level work. His uniformly collected offspring have a correct foundation and topline, and it was also noticeable that Vaderland's offspring have calm temperaments. Sufficient reason to select Vaderland for the shortened performance test." Vaderland's dam, when crossed with Charmeur, produced the international Grand Prix horse Impressive VDC ridden by Sarah Millis. In Ermelo, Vaderland can also be accompanied by his selected son Raf KL (out of Kolinda KL ster IBOP-dres by Ferdeaux), bred by Jeroen Korsten and Ron Lunenburg and co-registered with Peter Wetzelaer and Leonie Bos. This well-constructed stallion with good front-end moves with good space, rhythm, and looseness. Pavo Cup winner Vaderland is not the only older selected stallion this year; the six-year-old Everest (Especial out of Fresia ster PROK by Negro) bred by Van Olst Horses is also expected in the performance test. This remarkably performing grey won the Pavo Cup for five-year-olds last year and competed at the World Championships for Young Dressage Horses under Phoebe Peters. He is also a full brother to the Intermediaire II horse Jardin/Evegro ridden by Lotje Schoots and comes from a strong dressage lineage. His dam Fresia is a full sister to the Olympic dressage horse Elegance ridden by Beatriz Ferrer-Salat, and grandmother Reina (s.Monaco) competed at Small Tour level. In addition to his strong pedigree and promising start in sport, the grey stallion Everest also impresses with his strong build, good front end, correct foundation, and good leg technique in movement.
Van Olst influence
World Champion Glamourdale, in addition to premium stallion Rayano, also had sons Radboud van de Anjershof (out of Esta elite EPTM-dres pref PROK by Zhivago, bred by B.H. Harms) and Romero RDS (out of Zakiyah elite sport-dres PROK by Jazz, bred by D.M.L. Stoop-Collombon) selected. Through his stallion Lantanas, who had three sons selected from his second crop, Gertjan van Olst made his mark as a stallion owner on this new crop. In addition to premium stallion Rumble VDK, Ramblas (out of Kailani ster by Glamourdale, bred by C. van de Laar) and Romeo (out of All Right stb PROK by Jazz, bred by A.M. de Mol) are allowed to participate in the performance test. Gertjan van Olst is listed as the owner of both stallions and co-owns Romeo with Bart Jansen. "Lantanas has made a promising start as a sire. Of course, it all still has to happen with his offspring, but it's noteworthy that we have been able to select several good sons from a limited number of offspring. He seems to produce nice, sharp horses and could therefore be a welcome addition to breeding," praised committee member Johan Hamminga the stallion after the stallion inspection.
First crop
As a sire, the Dream Boy son Blue Hors Monte Carlo TC made a convincing impression as well. From his first crop, he had Royal Edition A (out of Hot Shot A elite sport-dres PROK D-OC by Florencio, bred by Yvonne Ackermans) from Joop van Uytert and Blue Hors, and the genetically interesting Red Spirit (out of Missy keur EPTM-dres by Daily Diamond) from breeder Eef ten Bosch selected. From his first crop, the Small Tour stallion Las Vegas had two sons selected. Richwood X (out of Jolandora elite IBOP-dres D-OC by Apache, bred by E.P.J. Teurlinx) from Nico Witte and Anchor Excellent Horses is a upwardly built stallion with a lot of presence. The also-descendant of Las Vegas, Ramiera-de J (out of Fleuria-O by Don Gregory, bred by A.W.C. de Jong) from Martien and Frans Burgers, comes from a half-sister to the Grand Prix horse Sandro's Success (s.Sandro Hit) and his grandmother Fabelia is a half-sister to the international Grand Prix horses Finlanderin (s.Fidertanz) and Ferrera (s.Sandro Hit). Another flagship of this direct Hanoverian dam line is the Grand Prix sport and breeding stallion Blue Hors Don Schufro (s.Donnerhall). This interestingly bred selected stallion stands out with his good model, foreleg use, posture, and leg technique in movement.
Three from Jameson RS2
From the second crop of the Small Tour stallion and former stallion selection champion Jameson RS2, in addition to premium stallion Rohan, he also had Rhodos Ro (out of NMK-merrie Khitney-Divette B elite IBOP-dres D-OC by Jazz, bred by R.W.F.M. Oosterbosch) from C. van Heukelen and Raece's (out of La Diva Corieta Texel ster IBOP-dres sport-dres PROK by Glock's Toto Jr.) from breeder Dressuurstal 't Achterland selected for the performance test. The prematurely deceased sire Ferguson had two sons selected. Firstly, Robin des Bois (out of Cinderella Platinum elite EPTM-dres pref prest PROK by Vivaldi, bred by J. Nanning) from co-breeder Kirsten Brouwer and Rosanne from R&R Sporthorses. Also selected was Ritmo de la Noche (Ferguson out of Hasara-Maria M elite sport-dres D-OC by Bretton Woods) from breeders Rom Vermunt and Harld and Jeannette Bruinier. The Ferguson son First Lewis produced the selected stallion Right On Time (out of Swarovski by San Dior) from Hengstenhouderij De IJzeren Man from a limited number of covers. He has a low relatedness to the KWPN population and is therefore also interesting to test in the context of blood dispersion.
Light movement
Niels Bax and Björn van Kessel from Hengstenhouderij De IJzeren Man selected the promising Rebellion (Vivino out of Just Me elite IBOP-dres D-OC by Negro) from breeder A.S. Sargent. Committee chairman Bart Bax was replaced by Arie Hamoen in the evaluation of the stallions associated with his brother Niels, both in the first and second inspections. The Dynamic Dream son Dream Dynasty TF (out of Rudilore Victoria by Vitalis, bred by A.S. Sargent) from Chris von Martels may also participate in the performance test. With two selected sons, the former champion stallion Le Formidable was also well represented. His son Renoir (out of Jamaica elite PROK by Blue Hors Zack, bred by J. Muilwijk) from E.C.R. and M.A.J. Bakker trots with good print and leg technique, and canters with balance. The also-descendant of Le Formidable, Ready to Rumble (out of Eos-Utopia elite IBOP-dres pref PROK by Ampère, bred by Rik van Gils) from Saskia Poel comes from an excellently tested dam, this is also the lineage of Hexagons Ich Weiss.
Two from Kjento
Two sons of double World Champion Kjento are also allowed to participate in the performance test. The talented Reijrink's Revolution (out of Aronia elite IBOP-dres pref prest PROK by Rousseau, bred by Willem and Karin Reijrink) from Gertjan van Olst is one of them. Also selected is Rishano Fornaio (Kjento out of Annabellarosa ster by Rousseau, bred by G.A. Bakker) from Van Olst Horses, which is bred from a half-sister to the international Grand Prix horse Mauro B (s.Investment) from Isabella Willibald. Top sire Bordeaux had sons Rock And Roll-L (out of Jade-Sarina ster IBOP-dres PROK by Wynton, bred by G.B.J. Lansink) from Rom Vermunt, who has the same grandmother as the KWPN-approved stallion Blue Hors Kingston (s.Glock's Toto Jr.), and Ruig (out of Grand Cru KF elite sport-dres PROK by Jazz, bred by Margot Kostelijk) from Diederik van Silfhout, Nikay van Duren, and Quinty Vossers selected. Bordeaux has developed into a first-class supplier of Grand Prix horses in breeding and is listed in the top ten of the WBFSH sire ranking for good reason.
Wetzelaer and Bos
From a mother proven all around, who even had two sons walking in Den Bosch this year, comes the selected Ribéry V.D.T. (Don Juan de Hus out of NMK champion Velvet V.D.T. elite pref prest D-OC by Ferro) from breeder Ad van de Tillaart and co-registered Peter Wetzelaer and Leonie Bos. Owners Peter Wetzelaer and Leonie Bos, in addition to Ribéry V.D.T. and premium stallion Raf KL (by Vaderland), also had their stallion Rico (Ibiza out of J'Adore elite IBOP-dres sport-dres PROK by Apache), co-owned with breeder M. van Grinsven and Piet Kuijpers, selected. As a fourth success, Peter Wetzelaer and Leonie Bos had their self-bred Secret son Raoul (out of Kierava stb PROK by Negro) selected.
Multiple trumps
Also descending from Secret is the selected stallion Sarai L (out of For Real L by For Romance) from breeder L Horses from Skanderborg and co-registered Peter van de Sande. He has a low relatedness to the KWPN population. This stallion, bred from a Danish dam line, showed a natural performance and moved with a lot of leg technique and lightness without any bluster. The same breeder/owner combination of L Horses and Stal Van de Sande also had Magic McKee L (Total McLaren out of N-Jou L by Negro) designated, bred from a versatile lineage. Peter van de Sande also had his self-bred Roubaix ter Selle S (For Ferrero out of Silberaster by Sandro Hit), co-owned with co-breeder Stal Ter Selle, designated. His dam won the BundesChampionat twice and also secured the bronze medal at the World Championship for five-year-old dressage horses in 2008.
Good lineages
Also very interestingly bred is the Romanov Blue Hors son Roebel (out of Forsytha BH ster PROK by Sir Donnerhall I) from breeder Marijke Miltenburg and co-owner Egbert Schep. This stallion comes from a half-sister to the international Grand Prix horse Zygrande le Coupied (s.Krack C) from Ceylan Avinal, and his mother Forsytha BH is a full sister to the Small Tour horse Kroonjuweel BH. Also from a proven dam line comes the designated stallion Rocky H (Just Wimphof out of Juweelvrouwe ster IBOP-dres D-OC by Negro, breeders Marianne Hendriksen-de Rijk and XS 2 Horses) from Joop van Uytert and M. Heilig.
Good impression
The selected Racoon Ave (Vitalis out of Keramiek elite IBOP-dres D-OC by Governor) from breeders A.J. Smelt and Adri van Erp comes from a mother tested with 80 points. His mother Keramiek is a half-sister to the Small Tour horse Hilltop (s.Chagall D&R) and the promising Montrachet (by Glock's Toto Jr.), who participated in the World Championships for young dressage horses in 2022. Yvon Kaptein bred the selected stallion Risky Business (Koning out of Iris elite IBOP-dres PROK by Desperado) and, along with premium stallion Rockstar Millionaire (s.D'Avie), has a second asset in hand for the performance test. Kim Vugts bred from a half-sister of the KWPN-approved stallion Pina Colada (s.Governor) her selected stallion Radler Bloemendael (Total Hope out of the NMK mare Hienola M elite IBOP-dres PROK by Florencio).
Zelma lineage
The new crop also offers interesting possibilities in terms of blood dispersion. For example, with the selected Gotcha-Utopia son Raikonen SD (out of Why Me Zelma ster IBOP-dres sport-dres PROK by Disconto, breeders Steane Hamer-Dijkslag) from Martin and André van Norel. From the same Zelma lineage comes also the selected Rockiezelma (Kaygo out of Kiekiezelma ster by Expression, breeder J.G. Smits) from the Van Norel family. A low relatedness to the KWPN population also has, among others, the unnamed Dancier Gold son (out of Daisy by Desperados, breeder Hermann Haferkamp) from Van Olst Horses. Also, Gerrel Vink's unnamed stallion from Taurus (out of Lola Rennt by Lauries Crusador xx, breeder Eibe Johanns) has a low relatedness. This appealing stallion has a lot of power and balance in movement. He showed a beautiful natural performance, with a lot of calmness in his movement form. In the context of blood dispersion, Brise (Bonds out of Raja by Vivaldi, breeder Söhnel) from G.V. Sydorenko is also interesting to test. The new generation seems convincing both in terms of quality and quantity, which is a good starting point for the upcoming performance tests.
Text: Jenneke Smit
Photo Rohan: Dirk Caremans
1 March 2024 | 17:00
Cape Coral RBF Z and Vaderland approved by KWPN
After Cape Coral RBF Z and Vaderland were delivered to the KWPN centre last Monday, they were able to leave Ermelo today as KWPN-approved stallions.
At the KWPN Stallion Show, both stallions were selected for the five-day character assessment after their offspring were reviewed and both stallions performed at the level required in sports.
International offspring
Fifteen-year-old Cape Coral RBF Z (Cornet Obolensky out of Gerona PP by Argentinus, breeders Marcel and Maryelle Coenen from Roggel) has proven himself under Pieter Keunen at the international 1.50m level and has been successful in breeding for several years. His oldest offspring are eight years old, and so far, 16 mares have been presented to the KWPN inspections, all of which have been declared at least 'ster.' Four sons have already been selected for the performance test, resulting in KWPN approval for No Mercy (dam: Now or Never M) and Opus One JDV (dam: Cardento). A high percentage of his offspring are already competing in international sports, with the eldest performing at 1.40/1.45m level. His offspring also stand out positively in young horse competitions. Cape Coral RBF Z produces well-developed, long-lined offspring. They move with great balance, have light-footed canters, and stand out in jumping with their push-off, body use, and athletic ability. Cape Coral RBF Z himself is an honest, reliable stallion who is easy to handle and displays calm stable behaviour. He is available for breeding at Stal Hendrix in Kessel.
Promising
The Small Tour stallion Vaderland (Vitalis out of Vechta star prest by Krack C), bred by Reesink Horses from Eibergen, also completed the five-day assessment. During the KWPN Stallion Show, he was presented by Dinja van Liere, with whom he achieved two victories in his international debut last October. This eight-year-old stallion is a half-brother to the international Grand Prix horse Impressive VDC (sired by Charmeur) owned by Sarah Millis. From his first crop, Vaderland had two sons selected this year, including premium stallion Rome USB. Additionally, some offspring were assessed. They form a uniform collection with well-developed fronts, strong loin muscles, and correctly structured foundations. They walk very well through their bodies, trot lightly, and display a lot of suppleness. Vaderland himself is an honest, reliable stallion who is easy to handle and calm in the stable. View the full report in the KWPN database. Vaderland is available for breeding at his registered owner Reesink Horses.
JS for KWPN
27 February 2024 | 11:06
Longread: New generation characterized by athletic ability and performance genes
The new crop of selected jumping stallions promises much for the future. From strong performance families and bred from international sport mares, stallions have been selected for the performance test. The young stallions have also made their mark with their first offspring. Additionally, the influence of top sire Aganix du Seigneur is notable, with three direct sons and two grandsons set to prove themselves under saddle.
Cor Loeffen, awarded with a golden KWPN pin, has passed on the chairman's baton to Wout-Jan van der Schans, who now, alongside Eric van der Vleuten and newcomer Bart Henstra, forms the stallion selection committee. The gentlemen were united in their enthusiasm about the new generation: "We have a very positive feeling about this collection of stallions. We have selected based on commitment and athletic ability, meaning horses that can shift gears well above the jump and naturally stay close to the hind pole," explained committee chairman Van der Schans afterwards.
Good selection
The six most complete stallions were rewarded with a premium distinction in addition to being selected for the performance test. For the KWPN-registered stallions, this also resulted in a breeder's premium provided by the 'Friends of the KWPN'. On Thursday afternoon, the premium stallions were presented in a show segment powered by Van Santvoort , and they were extensively explained and honoured together with their breeders and/or owners. The stallion selection committee praised these stallions for their strong combination of type, way of cantering and jumping, and performance-rich pedigree. "We are dealing with six very complete, modern stallions who have made a good impression in all respects. These stallions have consistently performed well in free jumping both in Ermelo and Den Bosch. Overall, we have been able to select well based on the attitude and suppleness of the horses, especially since the last oxer being wider provided us with a lot of information. If such a line is easy for the stallions, that is positive. The day before the second viewing, we reviewed all the videos of the selected stallions in the first viewing once again. As a committee, we have been able to collaborate very pleasantly, and we are pleased to note that we are gradually getting more blood in the horses without compromising on athletic ability. These qualities are decisive for the sport."
Premium stallions
From his first crop, the recently sold stallion Mattias, who is now owned by Jur Vrieling, had two sons selected, including the premium-selected R (out of Annelita C elite IBOP-spr pref prest PROK by Guidam), bred by Reinie Tewis and Sonja Vlaar's daughters Lynn and Rose Tewis. "This stallion impressed with his performance in both Ermelo and Den Bosch during free jumping. He has a good rectangular model and is athletically built. He built up very positively as the jumps got higher and has a lot of athletic ability. All in all, a horse with great future potential!" His mother was very well tested with 87 points and, in combination with Corlensky G, already produced the 1.50/1.60m horse Electric Elvis C ridden by Monika Martini. From this versatile sport line also comes the 1.50/1.60m horses Flyer (s.Voltaire), Ultimus (s.Ultimo), and Cafino Z (s.Carthago). When grandpa Fred Vlaar decided to stop his jumping horse breeding, he gave Annelita C to granddaughters Lynn and Rose. The choice for Mattias was obvious thanks to father Reinie, which immediately led to magnificent success. As a foal, the stallion, renamed Raven, was already invited to the National Foal Inspection. "Our daughters couldn't be here in Den Bosch today because we would have had to report them sick to school, which was just a bit too much. But they are super enthusiastic, and it's great that the stallion has done so well. Lynn and Rose named him Raven, but if he is approved, we will sit down to come up with another name. It'll be fine!", responds Reinie Tewis, who saw a total of five stallions prepared by him selected.
Blood-made
The 1.76m tall Ringo Starr (O'Neill van 't Eigenlo out of Elijanta stb PROK by Numero Uno, breeder Frans van Boxtel) from Egbert Schep was also selected as a premium stallion. This modern, blood-made stallion stood out with his very light-footed canter. "It is remarkable how easily this stallion can switch gears in canter, especially for such a big horse. Ringo Starr has a lot of blood in his legs and showed a very good performance in free jumping, impressing with his good technique and use of his body. Additionally, he is quick and particularly athletic." Ringo Starr is a half-brother to the international 1.50m horse Iowa B (s.Action-Breaker), and his mother, in turn, is a half-sister to the Grand Prix horse Nanta (s.Caridor Z), with which Jonella Ligresti competed in the World Equestrian Games. This direct line also produced the Grand Prix horse Mianta (s.Hemmingway) ridden by Callan Solem. Father O'Neill van 't Eigenlo is competed by Willem Greve under the name Minute Man at the 1.50m level. Premium stallion Caribou van de Dassenheide (Caribis Z out of Shakira de Kreisker sport-spr by Diamant de Semilly, breeders Nick and Jill Adams-Goossens) from Lennard de Boer comes from a mother who herself jumped at the national 1.45m level. She is also a full sister to the stallion Quickly de Kreisker, with which Abdelkebir Ouaddar competed in the World Equestrian Games in Caen and the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Additionally, this interestingly bred Caribou van de Dassenheide shares the same grandmother as Julien Epaillard's Grand Prix horse Dubai du Cedre (s.Baloubet du Rouet), the bronze medalist at the European Championships in Milan and winner of the Grand Prix at Jumping Amsterdam in the weekend preceding the stallion selection. "This well-developed, blood-made stallion has a good sports body and shows a lot of ease in jumping. He jumps with good overview, canters well, and comes from a very good sport line."
Two from VDL Stud
Premium stallion Always Remember Jack VDL Z (Aganix du Seigneur out of Derly Chin de Muze sport-spr by For Pleasure) from breeder VDL Stud is a genetic masterpiece. Not only does he have three Grand Prix mares in his pedigree, but he is also the half-brother of Daniel Deusser's top jumping horse Killer Queen VDM (s.Eldorado van de Zeshoek) and the equally high-performing Dajapatero VDM (s.Eldorado van de Zeshoek), Juju VDM (s.Toulon), and Kontador (s.Eldorado van de Zeshoek). Additionally, Always Remember Jack VDL Z is closely related to numerous other international jumping horses and his pedigree consists only of top sires. His name is a tribute to Jack Lubbers, who worked for VDL Stud for over 25 years and passed away on the same day that Always Remember Jack VDL Z was born. "This very well-cantering stallion is well-built in a rectangular model and jumps with striking impulsion, bascule, and overview. Also positive is that the stallion needs little guidance in free jumping; he jumps with a lot of commitment and a good attitude. Additionally, he has a pedigree to drool over." VDL's second ace in the premium lineup is the Landino VDL son Raikkonen LK (out of K.Amelusiena elite IBOP-spr D-OC by Zirocco Blue VDL), bred by Roelof Klinkhamer. Once again, a stallion bred from a strong sport line that flourished at Stal Roelofs. "Father Landino VDL was selected as a three-year-old by the KWPN and was not delivered, but we have already evaluated several good sons of this well-bred stallion. Raikkonen LK has a very good model, has a lot of blood, and canters with great balance. He can easily change and jumps with a lot of impulsion, easily switching gears above the jump." His mother was well tested with 78 points and is a half-sister to the international jumping horse Udor (s.Germus R) with which Don Kortrink classified at the 1.50m level. This performance family produced a series of international jumping horses including the 1.50/1.60m-classified Bobby (s.Concorde), Lamalushi (s.Calando I), Eamelusina R57 (s.Calvaro Z), and Amigo T (s.Padinus).
Multiple sons
The sixth premium-selected stallion is the United Touch S son Ramazotti van de Watermolen (out of Jedoselli W ster by Dakar VDL), bred by breeder of the year Jan Greve, whose pedigree goes back to the Grand Prix mare Oselli (s.Carthago) in the third generation on the dam's side. From this direct line also comes the 1.60m jumping horse Fruselli (s.Zambesi) ridden by Holly Smith. "This modern stallion is well-developed, youthful, and shows a lot of blood. He has a very good canter with good scope and balance, and can easily switch gears in the line. Ramazotti is naturally very sharp and consistently makes the jump behind well, even at a closer distance." His father United Touch S had two sons selected. With three selected sons, top sire Aganix du Seigneur topped this year's crop. In addition to premium stallion Always Remember Jack VDL Z, he also had the equally genetically valuable Aranix Rising Z (out of Lady D van 't Roosakker sport-spr by Echo van 't Spieveld) selected by breeders Hendrik Blink and Carin Schotanus of the Rising Stud. This well-developed stallion is well-built in a rectangular model, has an active canter, and can switch gears well. He stands out in jumping with good impulsion, showing a lot of power, and consistently making the jump behind well. His mother Lady D van 't Roosakker is available for breeding through Mares of Macha and jumped herself at the 1.40m level, as did already two of her offspring. Grandmother Electra van 't Roosakker performed at the highest level and already produced a series of international offspring including the 1.60m horse Kaprice (s.Echo van 't Spieveld).
Aganix du Seigneur
Aganix du Seigneur has left his mark through his son Lambada Shake AG, the winner of the VHO Trophy on Thursday evening. From the first crop of Lambada Shake AG, this stallion received both Rock Me Zsazsa (out of La Zsa Zsa elite sport-spr D-OC by Cornet Obolensky, breeder Karin Huisman-Holst) from Jan van Meever and Riverdance (out of Lapatera Ryal K elite EPTM-spr D-OC by Zapatero VDL) from breeder Rinus Blom and co-registered Munsteg Horses. In addition to two impressive three-year-old sons and two grandsons through Lambada Shake AG, Aganix du Seigneur also had the genetically interesting seven-year-old stallion A Moonlight Speciale Z (out of Double-Speciale ster PROK by Chacco-Blue) from breeder Jack Verstappen and co-registered Stal Hendrix selected. This stallion already stood out positively last year in young horse classes and participated in stallion competitions, where he was evaluated by the stallion selection committee. Genetically, he is interesting as a grandson of the Grand Prix and World Cup-winning mare Vink Especiale (s.Voltaire) with which Eric van der Vleuten was successful in the 1990s. A Moonlight Speciale Z stood out positively in the stallion competition with his commitment, quality, and ability. Through the same route, the seven-year-old Don Tarpania Z (Dominator Z out of Iralinde Tarpania stb PROK by Glasgow van ’t Merelsnest) from breeder Ab de Lange also earned selection for the performance test. This well-developed stallion has also shown himself well in stallion competitions and other young horse competitions up to 1.35m level. Additionally, the 15-year-old Cape Coral RFB Z (by Cornet Obolensky, breeders Marcel and Maryelle Coenen) from Stal Hendrix was selected for the five-day character assessment. This stallion has performed at the international 1.50m level with Pieter Keunen and seems to stand out in breeding, having already produced two KWPN-approved sons named No Mercy and Opus One JDV.
Two sons
Returning to the three-year-old stallions. From the same top lineage as premium stallion Caribou van de Dassenheide comes the selected stallion NN (out of Hawai du Cedre by Cash du Plessis) from breeder Julius-Peter Sinnack and co-registered combination Aaldering/Swelheim, one of the two selected sons of Grand Prix winner United Touch S. In addition to premium stallion R (ds.Guidam), Mattias also received son R (out of Maigrade 2 keur IBOP-spr by Heathrow) from breeder J. Braams-Hoving and co-registered Reinie Tewis. Also, the young stallion Landino VDL, selected as a three-year-old by the KWPN, had two sons selected from his first crop, including premium stallion Raikkonen LK. The other selected son is Lone Star VDL Z (out of Healba VDL ster by Harley VDL), from the Van de Lageweg family's own breeding.
Two Zirocco Blue VDL's
Top sire Zirocco Blue VDL, currently fifth on the WBFSH sire ranking, had two sons selected. From the breeding of Wim van Nispen comes Rebel Blue-N (out of Jboxynula-N stb by Gemini), representing the Holsteiner lineage of the stallions Lancer I-III and international 1.55/1.60m horses like Chin Quidam VDL (s.Chin Chin) and Guardiola-N (s.Vigo d’Arsouilles). In the pedigree of the robustly developed and strongly built NN (out of Sentilessa by Stakkato, breeder Manfred Schäfer) from VDL Stud, Zirocco Blue VDL is paired with a Hanoverian damline.
First crops
In addition to premium stallion Ramazotti van de Watermolen, Jan Greve received Reflex van de Watermolen (Mees van de Watermolen out of Lalexta by Connect) from his own breeding. His grandmother Hilexta II, through her father Albaran xx, contributes thoroughbred genes and is a half-sister to the international 1.50m horse Distheen (s.Utopie). Jan van Meever also received two stallions. In addition to Lambada Shake AG's son Riverdance, there is Rockwell VM (Lay Out out of Mojito VM keur EPTM-spr by Classe HS/Parrandero) from his own breeding. This stallion, from the first, small crop of his father, made a good impression with free jumping.
Diamant de Semilly
The selected Regulus D (Diamant de Semilly out of Vigoureuse de la Pomme by Crown Z) from breeders Floortje Deckers has an exceptionally performance-rich lineage, with three international sport mares stacked in his pedigree, and his 1.45m-jumping dam is a half-sister to six international sport horses including the KWPN-approved Grand Prix stallion Vagabond de la Pomme (by Vigo d’Arsouilles). The second selected Diamant de Semilly son is R Livingstone WP (out of Flavour by Singapore, breeder Willem Verhaeghe). Also bred in Belgium are two sons of Kasanova de la Pomme: Vince-K van Kattenheye (out of Athena van de Donkhoeve by Mr. Blue, breeders Tony and Mieke Raman) from VDL Stud and Vital van HD (out of Otina van HD sport-spr by El Torreo de Muze) from Reinie Tewis and H. van der Sluis. From the breeding of Guido Herrijgers of ’t Eirbissenhof comes the selected stallion Elfhaban van Beek Z (Elfra van Beek Z out of Habanda van Beek PROK by Hos d’O), whose grandmother competed at the international 1.45m level.
Chacco-Blue
Also genetically very interesting is the Chacco-Blue son Cognac van het Gebergte Z (out of the international 1.60m mare Olympia JW van ’t Meulenhof by Diamant de Semilly) from J.F. Barry. Another genetically valuable Chacco-Blue son is Reaction W van ’t Studutch (out of Zarina III ster by Heartbreaker) from breeders Willy Wijnen and Sjaak van der Lei, bred from a half-sister of none other than Olympic champion Explosion W (by Chacco-Blue). From the same family comes the selected stallion Redford VDL (Arezzo VDL out of Marina W by Chacoon Blue), tracing back to the same half-sister of Olympic champion Explosion W in the third generation. This is an impressive stallion that showed a very good performance, especially in Ermelo.
Double for Keizersberg
The selected Revanche Keizersberg (Jenson van ’t Meulenhof out of Gina keur sport-spr by Phin Phin) from breeder Jos van Deurzen of Stal Keizersberg is a grandson of the Grand Prix mare Naomie W (s.Colino) with which Jurgen Stenfert was successful for years. The same breeder also received Troubadour Keizersberg Z (Tangelo van de Zuuthoeve out of First Diamond R.A.G. stb-ext by Diamant de Semilly). In the fourth generation, Troubadour Keizersberg traces back to the legendary mare Ratina Z, who is the foundation of numerous international show jumpers. Tangelo van de Zuuthoeve also sired the selected stallion Red Bull (out of Miss Diamant by Diamant de Semilly), bred and owned by Joost van den Hurk. A very appealing stallion is the athletic Harley VDL son Rebellion GPH (out of Charistia Z by Crawford), bred by Sannah Angenent-de Bruijn and a half-brother to the KWPN-approved stallion Kaiden (s.Chaman), winner of the Blom Cup as a four-year-old and currently competing at the international 1.40m level.
First sons
Refresh-S (Defender VDS Z out of Melle Oukje-S by Carrera VDL) from breeders family Van Straaten of Van Bockxgrave Horses comes from the first crop of his father and has a grandmother who competed at the international 1.50m level. He comes from a carefully built performance lineage and showed a lot of commitment in jumping, something this family is known for. Also bred from the first crop of his father is the selected stallion Radetzky (Donthargos out of Anquille T ster by Quidam de Revel, breeder Gerard Kouwen). From the first KWPN crop of the approved stallion Finishing Touch Wareslage comes his selected son Red Moon (out of Grietje PROK by Indoctro), from breeder Luc Bramel and co-registrants Herman van Triest and Matthijs van Middelkoop. From the first crop of the genetically interesting stallion Caesar Z comes the promising Cupido Fan Skûlenboarch Z (out of Mare Fan Skûlenboarch ster D-OC by Grandorado TN) from breeder Esther Haijma, whose dam impressed at the mare inspection with 85 points for jumping ability. This stallion showed very good performance both in Ermelo and Den Bosch.
Much potential
In Den Bosch, the genetically interesting Edinburgh Optimus Z (Ermitage Kalone out of Cacacha van het Schaeck by Bamako de Muze) from Rinus Blom, Niek van Haperen, and Michelle Dijkerman made a good impression, and combined with his strong pedigree, he received approval from the stallion selection committee. Azraff SPS Z (out of Galaxie d’Iscla by Contendro I) from breeder Peter Snijders and co-registrants Gerrit and Leontine ter Harmsel-Zanderink will also have the opportunity to prove himself in the performance test. The stallion comes from a strong French sports lineage, from which Edwina Tops-Alexander's former top horse Itôt du Chateau also originates.
Emerald blood
In Den Bosch, two full brothers descended from Emerald van ’t Ruytershof were in action. The eye-catching chestnut stallion Richman (out of Tiara M PROK by Cento) from breeder Yannick van Wijk of Van Bockxgrave Horses was selected. Bred from the strong Melusiena lineage of Stal Roelofs is the Pegase van ’t Ruytershof son Resoluut S.A. (out of Heihaiwej S.A. sport-spr PROK by Emerald van ’t Ruytershof) from breeder family Ellenbroek and co-registered Wesley Mulder. Also selected from this family is premium stallion Raikkonen LK. Also a great talent is the Eldorado van de Zeshoek son Respect (out of C’Est la Vie elite IBOP-spr prest PROK by Verdi) from breeders Gebroeders Bosch and co-registered Scot Tolman. The Grandorado TN son Romantico RM (out of Madame Cornet RM by Cornet Obolensky) from breeder René Mulder of Egbert Schep will also have the opportunity to prove himself in the performance test. His mother is a half-sister to the 1.50m horse Dolce Vita (s.Lord Z) and several 1.40m horses. This Grandorado TN son is well developed and appealing. This stallion canters with great balance and has shown good jumping ability on both occasions, demonstrating quick takeoff and good technique and power over the oxers.
Holsteiner lineages
The well-developed Ravello van de Hagenhorst (Dourkhan Hero Z out of Lowinskey SR stb-ext by Denzel van ’t Meulenhof) from breeder Herman Verhagen represents the well-known Holsteiner lineage 104A, and his mother is a half-sister to several 1.40/1.45m show jumpers. Rich and Royal (Mumbai van de Moerhoeve out of Cantate 47 by Crunch) from breeder Roelof Bril of co-registered Runningwell Sports Horses comes from a mother who competed at the international 1.40m level with Kim Bril. He represents a good Holsteiner lineage, is well-developed, and shows a lot of blood.
Back to the performance test
The selected Riwyruso H (Baltic VDL out of Wyrusa H ster pref prest PROK by Corland, breeder Anne-Jan Hazenberg) from VDL Stud is a full brother to the KWPN-approved stallion Norton VDL and a half-brother to the international 1.60m horse Cat Ninja (s.Zirocco Blue VDL) of Andrew Kocher. Also, the proven sire Bustique had a son selected. This impressive Ropario (out of Paquita van den Heuvel by Vleut) was bred by Kees de Vries from the full sister to the KWPN-approved stallion Fire (s.Vleut), who competed at the international 1.45m level. This stallion from Rinus Blom and Munsteg Horses stands out with his power in movement and jumps with a lot of impulsion. An eye-catching figure is the light chestnut Ruzgar VII S (Chacfly out of Julia Caesar III S ster IBOP-spr sport-spr by Zambesi) from breeder Levent Dutkun and co-registered Stal Bles. He has three mares in a row in his pedigree, all of which have competed at 1.30/1.35m levels in sport.
Strong performances
The Croatian-bred Zoom Zoom LF Star 2P Z (Zambesi out of Davita de L’Ampermeable sport-spr by Nabab de Rêve) from Koen van de Beeten comes from a mare that herself was active at the 1.50m level in Hungary. Also, a strong performance in Den Bosch was given by Raptor ADC (Luigi d’Eclipse out of Murciélago ster IBOP-spr D-OC by Emerald van ’t Ruytershof) from breeders G. and L.H. Boksebeld and co-registered Davey Boksebeld. Descending from El Barone 111 Z is the selected stallion Enfant El Baron RC Z (out of Jeunesse Dorée stb PROK by Arezzo VDL, breeder R. Cornelissen) from Egbert Schep, who comes from the direct dam line of 1.50/1.60m horses such as Atlanta 541 (s.For Pleasure), Secret (s.Quidam de Revel), and Unbelievable (s.Concorde). All in all, fifty stallions with much confidence are looking forward to the upcoming performance tests.
Text: Jenneke Smit
Photo Raikkonen LK: Dirk Caremans