Two 10s ensure Happy athlete Danciero of world title

Press Release

The Hanoverian bred Danciero (Dancier x Fuechtels Floriscount) and his rider and owner Anna Kasprzak emerged victorious in the final for seven-year-old horses at the Longines FEI/WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championships for Young Horses. Two 10s on the score sheet raised the total score to 86.82%. The silver medal was awarded to Global Player OLD (Grand Galaxy Win T x Blue Hors Don Schufro) that received 83.12% under Leonie Richter. The third step of the podium was claimed by Lightning Star (Ferguson x De Niro) and Kirsten Brouwer with 81.77% score.

“The first word that comes to mind is ‘harmony’, I wrote it down in capital letters”, begins commentating judge Maria Colliander her evaluation of the brand-new world champion. “He is clearly a happy athlete and you two have a beautiful partnership together.” This was reflected in the marks as the horse received a 10 for both the submission and the perspective. The mistake at the end of the test due to a changing screen on the scoreboard should not affect that score, argued the jury. The paces of the dark bay gelding were all rewarded with a 9+ mark, the walk peaking at a 9.8. “Danciero has a nearly flawless walk; clear, relaxed and he shows so much ability to collect”, said Mrs. Colliander.

Amazing feeling
“It is easy to be a good rider on this horse, he gives so much of himself”, says a glowing Anna Kasprzak about her world champion that was bred by Zg. Broers U. Weber. “He gave me an amazing feeling today; he felt a bit more focused than Friday and his walk was better as well. I am super happy with the result but even more so with his progression. It means a lot to me that he received the 10s for those two aspects and I am eagerly and confidently looking forward to the future.” Danciero’s breeder shares he had faith in the gelding ever since he was young: “As a foal he displayed good paces and quality, but nothing made me suspect that he would go on to achieve such great things. And what a level-headed temperament, Danciero even seemed to enjoy the prize giving ceremony. In Verden he got silver with Eva and now gold. A dream.”

Global Charmer
The 2022 world champion of the six-year-old horses, Global Player OLD, flaunted his qualities in Ermelo once again. Awarding a 9.7 for his trot and a 9.6 for his walk, the jury revealed to be deeply impressed by the black stallion. “Global Player has a very active and elastic trot and moves so freely from the shoulder”, lauds Maria Colliander. “His walk is clear, covers a lot of ground and his extended walk is fantastic. We expect and hope this horse has a bright future ahead of him in dressage. We could also call him ‘Global Charmer’”.

Trust
Bronze medalist Lightning Star was also bestowed with a medal at a previous edition of the WC for Young Dressage horses. Two years ago, the KWPN mare and her rider Kirsten Brouwer clutched the bronze in Verden as well. “I had a great feeling this WC, Lightning Star is so safe in her tempi changes despite her age, and she always wants to work for me”, beams her rider. “I always try to establish this bond with my horse, so they are happy and trust me and want to work with me. This test is quite technical, but she is fine with that. She now gets a well-deserved break and this winter perhaps a debut at Small Tour level.”

Alluring lady
The jury, chaired by Henning Lehrmann, confirmed Kirsten’s feeling with high marks and raving comments. “Lightning Star is a true lady, incredibly charming and clearly well-produced by her rider. She has a pure walk and powerful trot with a great suspension. The contact with the rider was consistent yet soft.” The mare, owned by R&R Sporthorses and Stal Brouwer and bred by T. Wilaras, was awarded four 9-something marks, including a 9.2 for her submission and perspective.

Picture: Dirk Caremans
Results

My Toto propels to gold in world championship

Press Release

After three solid performances, My Toto (Glock’s Toto Jr. x Voice) and Hans Peter Minderhoud clinched the gold in the world championship for six-year-old horses. The KWPN gelding produced a score of 88.6%. Vitalos (Vitalis x De Niro) and Leonie Ruchter swayed to a silver position. The bronze medal was bestowed on Zuperman OLD (Galleria’s Vincent Maranello x Destano) and Beatrice Hoffrogge that scored 87.2%.

After the qualification on Friday the black powerhouse, owned by Aat Both and Lida Both-Van Loef and Miga Horses, had to settle for the 17th position. Their win in the Small Final granted the Dutch combination the opportunity to return on Sunday, Being the first duo to enter the ring this class and immediately set the bar high. My Toto gave a convincing performance which earned him a 9.5 for the canter and a 9.0 for perspective, sending his home fans into ecstasy. Chairman Adriaan Hamoen enjoyed the performance of the young talent. “My Toto’s test was the most complete today, he was forward, happy and showed off his exceptionally powerful canter.”

Long wait
Hans Peter Minderhoud says he always had faith in his WC debutant: “I think the jury overlooked his qualities in the qualification, because I was happy with the first test as well. Nevertheless, he went on to win the small final and today he gave me an even better feeling. He is a clever horse that can cope so well with the demanding conditions.” And then the Dutch rider, who had two irons in the fire this final, had to wait and see if his score was enough. “After the test with My Toto I was happy we probably secured a top ten position. After the ride with Massimo, we were sure of a top five ranking and then I stayed in the stables until the last results came in. My Toto absolutely deserves this medal, he really tried his heart out.”

It was also an exciting afternoon for breeder Aat Both. “After retiring as chairman of the organising committee, I was looking forward to a relaxed Sunday. Then this happens! I assure you this is even more nerve-racking. He was the first to go, so it was a waiting game.”

Silver once more
The 2022 silver medalist of the five-year-old horses could cash in another medal of the same colour this edition. The Hanoverian stallion Vitalos, bred by Josef Bramlage and co-owned by Hengsthaltung Helgstrand and Schockemöhle, effortlessly moved to 88.4%, receiving a 9.2 for the trot and 9.0 for perspective. “A horse with a grand future ahead of him thanks to his natural talents”, lauds Ulrike Nivelle. “He moves with abundant balance and shows great aptitude for the collection.” Vitalos already displayed those natural abilities as a foal, according to his breeder: “Unreal! When we sold him as a foal, we already thought he was a super star, a future champion in the making. We still have his full sister for breeding and she will not be sold for any price.”

Best character
Rider Leonie Richter is having a remarkably successful day during which she reached the podium twice. “It is an amazing feeling, I so happy, especially since this horse deserves this result. He does everything for me, he truly has the best character.” The two have been a combination for three years now and are always looking for things to improve. “In my eyes he can do no wrong, but his canter got a lot stronger during the last year. You want to show off the progression, so there is some pressure, but as soon as I am in the saddle of Vitalos, I feel safe.”

Showpony
Germany’s Beatrice Hoffrogge has a double role when it comes to Zuperman OLD. She is not only the rider, but also the proud owner of this Oldenburger stallion bred by Stefan Tietje. “I was super pleased we advanced to the final. The fact he feels so great on the last day and only got better as the weekend progressed gives me a lot of confidence towards the future”, radiates Hoffrogge. “It is a special feeling to compete in the World Championship with your own horse, but I was not nervous at all. Zuperman is a true show pony.” The combination made great strides in a short period of time, since the dark bay stallion was sidelined by an eye infection for a while. The bronze medalist is now blind to one eye, but that does not affect his performance in the ring. “He is super smart and a fast learner, so I am eagerly looking forward to our future together.”

Proud
Not only his owner beams with pride when talking of Zuperman OLD, the breeder is also having a wonderful time in Ermelo. “Indescribable, an extremely emotional experience”, tells the teary-eyed breeder. “A beautiful moment and we are so proud of Zuperman and Bea!” Commentating judge Ulrike Nivelle praised the canter and the perspective of the stallion. “Zuperman is an impressive horse with a bright future ahead. The highlight of his test today was his uphill canter that has a huge jump and great rhythm to it.”

Picture: Dirk Caremans
Results

DSP Big Bang winner of 7 year old small final

Press Release

With a score of 76.54%, DSP Bing Bang (Bon Coeur x Quadroneur) and Kristine Moller secured the victory in the small final for seven-year-old horses at the Longines FEI/WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championships for Young Horses. The combination from Luxembourg was closely followed by L’Amore Per Sempre OLD (Livaldon x Alabaster) ridden by Santiago Damil, who scored 76.03% to claim the second position. The bronze medal went to Quinten Begijnhoeve (Heros Begijnhoeve x Ferro) ridden by Tommie Visser with a score of 74.06%.

"After enjoying a beautiful class, we had the pleasure of witnessing some very fine horses. Truly quality horses, although some of them had occasional difficulties with the exercises," shared jury member Monique Peutz after the small final. The seven-year-old DSP-bred Big Bang, owned by Jens Thorsen and bred by Dr. Frank Klakow, impressed significantly more today than during the qualification on Thursday. The gelding received an 8.5 for his canter and an 8.4 for his overall potential. Monique Peutz expressed great enthusiasm for the winner, saying, "Big Bang delivered an outstanding performance. Tremendous quality in all three gaits, and technically ready for this level. Clearly the winner for us."

Kristine Moller, the rider of Big Bang, also considers him a winner. She said, "I am super happy and very satisfied. This is only our third competition this year, and he still managed to deliver two very good tests. He doesn't want to make mistakes and always gives his best, which means a lot to me."

The second-place horse, bred by Martin Otten and owned by Damil Dressage, also received compliments from the jury, with a 9.3 for the trot and an 8.5 for potential. "What an elegant horse. A truly stunning mare, I would love to take her home," praised Monique. "However, with L’Amore Per Sempre, you can see that she still needs some assistance from her rider. We should consider that in the assessment, but she still possesses a lot of charisma, particularly in her strong trot."

The BWP stallion that finished in third place, bred and owned by Stoeterij Begijnhoeve, displayed promising elements in the test, resulting in an 8 for potential. "Quinten is a very big horse that still needs to gain some strength, but Tommie rode a beautiful test, harmonious. If he becomes even stronger, he will undoubtedly be a horse for the future."

Photo: Dirk Caresman

Results

My Toto swings effortlessly to final for six-year-old horses

Press Release

A landslide victory for My Toto (Glock’s Toto Jr. x Voice) and Hans Peter Minderhoud in the eHorses small final for six-year-old horses at the Longines FEI/WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championships for Young Horses in Ermelo. The KWPN gelding moved to 87.6%, leaving a gap of 4% towards the runner-up Chere Celine OLD (Governor-Str x San Amour) and Lena Waldmann. Hesselhoej Double Up (Hesselhoej Donkey Boy x Sir Lancelot M) and Anders Uve Sjøbeck placed third with a score of 82.2%.

The six-year-old Glock’s Toto Jr. offspring, bred and owned by Aad Both and co-owned by Lida Both-van Loef and Miga Horses, received a 9.4 for his walk and a 9.0 for the perspective. According to chairman of the jury Adriaan Hamoen, the gelding showed off his talents significantly better than during the qualification. “The horse was clearly more relaxed and then his impressive qualities really come out to shine, plus we get to award higher marks. The entire top three gave a much better performance than yesterday.”

Comfortable horse
Rider Hans Peter Minderhoud is visibly pleased after the test: “My Toto felt even better than yesterday and that resulted in higher marks for every aspect. My goal for Ermelo was to qualify for the finals with both horses and we did it. I am super happy! My Toto’s best quality? His mindset, he always gives it his all and he is such a comfortable horse to ride.”

Revenge
The Oldenburger mare Chere Celine, bred by Gestüt Meyenburg and owner Gisa Löwe, received two 8.5s for her powerful walk and canter. Chere Celine placed sixth in last year’s final for five-year-old horses and is now granted another chance to prove herself in the final. The DWB-bred Hesselhoej Double Up, bred by Hans Jørgen Hoeck and owned by Hesselhoej.Dk., is making his World Championships debut this year. The stallion gave a solid performance logging 8.5s for the canter and perspective on his score sheet. Arie Hamoen is looking forward to the final on Sunday: “There are a few contenders in the race, I cannot think of only one prime candidate for the title. Even in the final it depends if the horses are on their game that day, it is definitely going to be close.”

Picture: Dirk Caremans
Results

Extraordinary Quinn G World Champion of five-year-old dressage horses

Press Release

Quinn G (Quaterhit x Fassbinder) and Betina Jaeger charged to a win in an electrifying final for the five-year-old dressage horses at the Longines FEI/WBFSH Dressage World Championships for Young Horses. The Danish Warmblood mare produced a substantial margin of no less than 6.2% between her and the silver medalist No Limit (Geniaal x Florestan I) and Simone Pearce. The bronze medal was awarded to Beck’s (Benicio x Desperados) and Thomas Schulze.

On the last line the crowd erupted in a thundering applause. “I saw you smiling during the test, and this must have been a lovely ride”, commenced commentating judge Ulrike Nivelle. A jaw-dropping 10 for perspective appeared at the scoreboard, which signals this mare is one to watch in the future. “By nature, an easygoing and willing horse. She has enormous potential.” The other marks on the score sheet confirmed the extraordinary qualities of the chestnut mare bred by Stutteru G – Helene Geervliet and owned by Helgstrand Dressage. Both her trot and submission were rewarded with a 9.7.

Always on fire
Betina Jaeger is at a loss for words right after the prize giving ceremony. “I don’t know how I feel, I only think: Wow!” radiates the Danish rider. “After the third place in the qualification on Thursday we practiced our transitions, and I was so eager to show off her qualities here. We succeeded.” When asked about the best features of this mare, Betina beams: “She is such a happy horse that always wants to work for me, with her ears pointed forward. As soon as she sets foot in the arena she is on fire and gives it her all.”

Happy horse
Chairman of the jury Susanne Baarup noticed Quinn is a happy athlete in the test. “Forward and easy-going, we nearly gave the mare a 10 for submission until their minor hick-up. We wanted to reward the power and ease of these young horses, so as a jury we unanimously agreed this should be today’s podium. We had goosebumps in the jury boxes.” Quinn’s breeder can attest to the fantastic character of the mare; “she was a nice foal, but not extraordinary. Her qualities emerged when she started her training under saddle. As it turns out, she is a true competition horse. She has a lovely temperament and always says ‘yes’ to her rider. And now gold, it’s the best feeling imaginable as a breeder.”

New team
The silver medal fell prey to another chestnut, albeit it a Westphalian gelding this time. The impressive No Limit, bred by Marcel Roerdink and owned by Monika and Thomas Ritzinger, recorded three nines on his score sheet, the highlight being a 9.5 for his trot. “No Limit is an incredible horse with a lot of perspective”, states Ulrike Nivelle “He has a huge, elastic trot and is well-balanced and uphill in the canter.” His Australian rider Simone Pearce only recently picked up the reins of No Limit and never expected to grab a medal in Ermelo. “Six weeks ago, No Limits could not even perform this test, so I am incredibly proud of him”, she shares overwhelmed by emotion. “Everything is new to him and for us as a team, so it is amazing he tried his heart out here.”

Chestnut equals success
The colour palette in the prize giving ceremony was a tad monotonous as the podium was filled with three chestnuts. You either love them or hate them, but today chestnuts guaranteed success. Marcel Roerdink, breeder of No Limit takes a decisive stand: “I love chestnuts, so I was immediately fond of this foal when he was born. No Limit was bred out of a famous dam line and a very talented mare. He takes after his dam; she is also a special one. This is fantastic, it’s the dream of any breeder.”

Biggest friend
The Hannoverian bronze medalist followed No Limit closely, the score interval being merely 0.4%  “Beck’s shows a lot of power, balance and activity in the trot” says Ulrike Nivelle. “He was presented in a nice frame and showcases a willingness to collect.” It resulted in a 9 for the trot and perspective for the stallion bred and owned by Christian Felker. “I have believed in this horse since day one”, explains Mr. Felker. “Thomas and Beck’s are a perfect match. This was a WC-debut for rider, horse and for me as a breeder. An experience I will never forget!” Thomas says he can feel the power and ease in the saddle. “Beck’s is my biggest friend and wants to do everything for me. After his test on Thursday, I noticed he was impressed by the surroundings and even a bit tired, so we only did some light training to save his energy for the final. It worked out perfectly”, smiles the German rider proudly.

Picture: Dirk Caremans
Results

Opoque lives up to expectations and wins final four-year-old dressage horses

Press Release

Opoque (All at Once x Davino V.O.D.) and Mette Sejbjerg Jensen won the final of the Sport Pro Horses Prize for four-year-old dressage horses, thus holding on to their lead position of the qualification. The runner-up position was claimed by Josi (Jovian x Samarant) and Chiara Prijs Vitale that climbed up the rankings after their ninth place in the qualification. The podium was completed by Elastic 11 (Escolar x DiMaggio) and Maxi Kira von Platen.

Commentating judge Maarten van der Heijden foresees a bright future for the four-year-old chestnut bred by Stal 104 that owns the stallion together with Helgstrand Dressage. “Opoque performed a lovely test, he is a very promising horse.” The four-year-old KWPN stallion was awarded an 8.7 for his perspective and received his highest mark for the canter, an 8.8. “He covers a lot of ground and has such an uphill jump in this gait. Another strong suit of this horse is his shoulder freedom.” The final score of Opoque was 85.6%.

Teamwork
“We did it together, though it is mainly the horse”, responds Mette Sejbjerg Jensen when congratulated with her win after the prize giving ceremony. “I feel so lucky to ride a horse like this. Opoque is a very sensitive horse, but I always say the best horses are the most sensitive. We are great team; he trusts me, and we really enjoyed our ride today.” The question arises whether we have seen a potential future WC-combination. “I certainly hope so, it is my deepest wish. If I still get to ride the horse next year, I’ll be back in Ermelo! Now we go home and take a late summer break. Hopefully you guys will see us next year.”

Daughter of Jovian
The entire class obtained top marks; out of the ten finalists, nine young horses recorded an 80%+ score. Sired by former world champion of the five- and seven-year-olds Jovian, it came as no surprise Josi proved a fierce competitor to Opoque. The Westphalian mare, bred by Frieder Heilemann and owned by Dressage Horses Vitale Prijs & GC Dressage Horses, moved to 85%, receiving an 8.8 for her trot and 8.5 for perspective.

Elasticity
Helgstrand Dressage’s name popped up as owner of another top three horse in this class. The Westphalian horse Elastic 11, bred by Daniela Werheit-Wagemeyen, showed to be aptly named in a solid test that was valued at 84.4%. ‘What an elastic and talented horse”, praised Maarten van der Heijden. The stallion was given an 8.8 for his trot. “This horse possesses a fantastic trot, active and light-footed with a swinging back.”

Picture: Dirk Caremans
Results

Danciero bests Global Player en route to final for seven-year-olds

Press Release

A microscopic difference of 0.15% put Danciero (Dancier x Fuechtels Floriscant) and Anna Kasprzak ahead of Global Player OLD (Grand Galaxy Win T x Blue Hors Don Schufro) and Leonie Richter the KWPN/KNHS qualification for seven-year-old dressage horses at the Longines FEI/WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championships for Young Horses. 83.32% and 83.18% secured the first and second position, though Diaton (DiMaggio x Benetton Dream FRH) ridden by Nicole Wego-Engelmeyer was breathing down their necks with 83.05%.  

The silver medalist of the WBFSH in 2021 received a score sheets with four 9+ marks. “Danciero gave me an amazing feeling. He was a bit tense during the training and the warming up, but in the test he was perfect. We have worked on a lot of things and the trot now has a lot more balance and he has also developed strength in the changes and pirouettes.” His rider and owner Anna Kasprzak acquired the by Zg. Broers U. Weber bred DiMaggio-offspring in May 2022 and had him gelded. The rider gave the Hannoverian ample time to recover and now he is ready to vie for the medals. “His best feature? The rideability, he is such an easy horse to ride in the test. Danciero also has the perfect mindset for the big sports, he does everything for me. And I think that’s the most important. The podium is in sight, but the scores are all so close. Anything can happen, there is no room for mistakes. It will be an exciting final!”

Tit for tat
Everyone was eagerly anticipating the performance of the 2022 world champion of six-year-old horses, Global Player OLD. The Oldenburger stallion, bred by Henrik Hansen and owned by Hengsthaltung Helgsrtand and Schockemöhle flaunted his talent as he obtained a 9.4 for the trot and 9.3 for perspective. However, the competition is far from over. Receiving a 9.3 for the walk and 9.4 for perspective, Diaton, bred by Silke Groeneveld and owned by Maria Teresa Pohl, has set his eyes on the title as well. “The top three contenders excel in quality, but the final will undoubtedly be sensational since the numbers one through six are seriously talented horses”, predicts chairman of the jury Henning Lehrman.

Picture: Dirk Caremans
Results 

Be Allex and Lyngbjergs St. Paris neck and neck in Provincie Gelderland qualification for six-year-old horses

Press Release

A mere 0.2% difference between Be Allex (Ampère x Dalwhinnie) and Lynbjergs St. Paris (Blue Hors St. Schufro x Blue Hors Rockefeller) signals we are on course for a thrilling Provincie Gelderland final for six-year-old dressage horses at the Longines FEI/WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championships for Young Horses in Ermelo. Allex and Jeanna Hogberg are grabbed the lead thanks to their 89.6% score, with St. Paris and Victoria E. Vallentin in hot pursuit at 89.4%. Dinja van Liere guided Mauro Turfhorst (Zonik N.O.P. x Negro) to the third score of 88.2%

The SWB gelding, bred by Eva and Bo Petterson and owned by Hennix Horses Ab, Västra Hoby Stuteri Ab and his rider Jeanna Hogberg, earned a 9.3 for perspective and a 9.2 for the canter. The Danish former world champion of five-year-old horses, owned by her rider and Four Oaks ApS and bred by Bente Børjesson, also received a 9.3 for perspective and obtained the same mark for her walk. The only stallion in the top three, KWPN horse Mauro Turfhorst, was given the highest mark for submission. This harmony of the performance of the Zonik N.O.P.-offspring, owned by Reesink Horses and Stoeterij Turfhorst and bred by J.W. Greve, was granted a 9.3.

Winner Jeanna Hogberg is overjoyed with this fantastic start to the championship: “I am over the moon! The final on Sunday is always a challenge. That test contains more changes as well, but luckily those come easy to him. Last year, Be Allex placed eighth in the final for five-year-old horses. So, this time my goal is to best that position, but a podium would be even better”, quips the Swedish rider.

The jury team in this qualification was composed of Ulrike Nivelle, Adriaan Hamoen, Anette Fransen Lacobaeus and Jean-Michel Roudier. The quartet shared their enthusiasm about the 45 six-year-olds they evaluated today. “We have seen so much quality. As a jury we worked together very well, we were on the same page in our scores”, says Ulrike Nivelle. Jean Michel Roudier chimes in: “It was a lengthy session, but we are incredibly happy with what we have seen today. High-level sport, plus we were amazed by the improvement in riding, it was all so light and self-carried. We truly believe many of these combinations are on track to the Grand Prix.” As 19 horses obtained 80% or above, this class proved to be super competitive. Adriaan Hamoen concludes: “With so many quality horses there is no doubt we can look forward to a thrilling final.”

Picture: Dirk Caremans

Results 

Vital Hit most complete horse in small final Sport Pro Horses Prize (4yr old)

Press Release

Obtaining a score of 84.2%, Vital Hit (Vitalis x Royal Dance) and Judith Sarda Mane won the small final of the Sport Pro Horses Prize for four-year-old dressage horses on the second day of the Longines FEI/WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championships for Young Horses. The second position was claimed by Escapado (Escamillo x Bordeaux) and Riccardo Sanavio and the podium was completed by Oasis SDHW (Fontaine TN x Firestone) and Ingrid Gerritsen.

Rider Judith Saeda Mane, employed by the Gestüt Schafhof which owns the Vitalis-offspring, is very pleased with the result of the young Oldenburger horse. “Vital Hit was amazing today, he felt super fresh and was so motivated. He had a bit of tension in the transitions, simply because he wanted to do too much. Overall, it was great, I am super proud of him.” The Spanish rider anticipates a bright future for the stallion; “He is so talented; we’ll continue his training and I would love to ride the championship for five-year-old horses next year. Fingers crossed!”

Powerful walk or trot
Members of the jury Thomas Kessler and Maarten van der Heijden agreed the small final was brimming with top-quality four-year-old horses. “We have judged some lovely horses today. Powerful gaits, self-carried horses and great riding. The number one had a powerful gait and was so relaxed throughout the performance, it was truly the most complete horse this morning.” As Oldenburger stallion, bred by Raey Campell, excelled in his walk, Escapado received his top mark for the trot, a 9. “The number two showed us the best trot today, but unfortunately suffered from some tension every now and then, which primarily emerged in the walk. Nevertheless, still a horse with a lot of quality.” The final score of the four-year-old gelding bred by Andrea Puschmann and owned by Scuderio 1918, amounted to 83%.

Relaxed four-year-old horses
You could expect the young horses to be impressed by their surroundings however the combinations generally performed their tests in a remarkably relaxed manner, even keeping their heads cool during the prize giving ceremony. “If such young horses show some tension, we do not immediately mark down the gaits”, explains Maarten van der Heijden. “As long as it does not influence the transitions or cause any big mistakes, we only take it into account in the mark for submission, but not for gaits.”

Picture: Dirk Caremans
Results

Hannover‘s Supergirls - Herwart von der Decken-Show

Verden. Their names are Hann.Pr.A. Donna Bella and Hann.Pr.A. Summersby and they are the best three-year-old mares in Hannover. They won the Herwart von der Decken-Show.

Dressage part of press release

"Great finish", said Katy Holder-Vale after the presentation of the 40 dressage mares on the triangular track. Together with Matthias Klatt and Ulrich Hahne, the chairwoman of the British Hanoverian Horse Society judged the three-year-olds, who were extremely strong in movement. She had hardly stepped onto the track as the first competitor when the hearts flew to her: Hann.Pr.A. Ballerina by Bon Courage/Destano (breeder: Hof Schepergerdes, Meppen, exhibitor: Christa Zumbeel-Dust, Bawinkel) thrilled with her performance and was celebrated as the Champion Mare Dressage. A year ago her half brother Big Ben by Bonds was licensed in Verden. She was hardly inferior to Hann.Pr.A. Summersby by Sandro Hit/Donnerhall (breeder and exhibitor: W.M. Stud, Visselhövede), who won the title of Reserve Champion. She comes from a sporty family, her granddam Real Gold is the dam of Duke of Britain FRH, who won team bronze with Germany’s Frederic Wandres at the World Championships in Herning/DEN. 

 

In addition, the best mare family of the past show season was awarded in the For Pleasure arena. The Friedrich Jahncke Prize went to Hann.Pr.St. Chayenne by Christ/Raphael (breeder: Marefield Meadows, Blender) and her two daughters Hann.Pr.A. Doortje by D'Egalite and a two-year-old by Jovian. The breeding association Lange from Albstedt had presented this outstanding family out of the Swan Maiden line in Elmlohe.

Further information and results:www.hannoveraner.com

PRESS RELEASE - Valerie B close to perfection in victory ride in qualification for five-year-old horses

A nearly perfect trot secured Valerie B (Revolution x Blue Hors Zack) and Danish rider Anne-Mette Strandby the win in the Anemone Horsetrucks qualification for five-year-old horses during the first day of the Longines FEI/WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championship for Young Horses. Boasting a powerful canter, Skyline to B (Blue Hors St. Schufro x Ampère) and his rider Carl Hedin slotted in second place, followed by another Danish mare: Quinn G. (Quaterhit x Fassbinder) and Betina Jaeger and Beck’s (Benicio x Desperados) ridden by Thomas Schulze.

“This horse gave me goosebumps”, states chairman of the jury Susanne Baarup about Valerie B. “It is quite emotional to judge a horse like that, she has no weaknesses. Absolutely a horse for the future.” The five-year-old mare bred by Karin and Peer Guldbrandsen and owned by Helgstrand Dressage A/S, was awarded two 9.7s on her score sheet. Besides the trot, this DWB Mare of the Year 2021, also obtained that top mark for perspective, bringing the total to 9.48 points. “The entire top 10 we have seen today, are future stars of high quality. It’s the small details that make the difference in the ranking.”

“She is perfect”
Anne Mette Strandby utters nothing but praise when she talks about her performance with Valerie. “It felt amazing! In the warming-up she was a little bit nervous about the umbrellas and the rain. It surprised me, since she is usually 200% cool. As soon as she entered the arena, she was perfect.” The Danish rider confidently looks forward to the rest of the event. “Her best qualities? Everything. She possesses three amazing gaits and a super heart. I am super happy with our debut!”

Extraordinary canter
The Swedish stallion Skyline to B, bred by Maria Rasmussen and owned by Eques Management Ab, obtained a superb 8.96-point total, partially thanks to the 9.5 for his canter. The DWB champion of five-year-old horses Quinn G, also owned by Helgstrand Dressage A/S and bred by Stutteri G, was awarded a 9 for his powerful canter. The final score of the Quaterhit-offspring came down to 8.82 points, thereby sharing the third position with the Hanoverian stallion Beck’s (Benicio x Desperados) and rider Thomas Schulze. The Danish mare and German stallion obtained similar marks, only noting a difference in the canter and trot.

Picture: Timo Martis
Results

PRESS RELEASE - Opoque head and shoulder above the rest in Sport Pro Horses Prize Qualification

Noting three 9.5s on the scoreboard, Opoque (All At Once x Davino V.O.D.) and Mette Sejberg Jensen triumphed in the Sport Pro Horses Prize qualification for four-year-old horses on the first day of the Longines FEI/WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championship for Young Horses. Elastic 11 (Escolar x DiMaggio) and Maxi Kira von Platen placed second, ahead of Del Sogno 4 (Dante’s Junior x Lauries Crusador xx) ridden by Philly Roberts.

“A horse with abundant quality in the gaits and a fantastic submission throughout the test as well as a lovely, soft contact”, says member of the jury Marian Dorresteijn. “Opoque really excels in the walk.” The four-year-old KWPN stallion, bred by Stal 104 BV and co-owned by Helgstrand Dressage, received a 9.5 for his walk. His canter and perspective were also awarded a 9.5. “Especially the best-ranked horses today, showed to possess three solid gaits and a great rideability.”

Owe it all to Opoque
Mette Sejbjerg Jensen can hardly believe the result after the prize giving ceremony: “What a ride, what a horse! He is truly incredible. My goal here is to enjoy it all and have fun. I am so lucky to ride a horse that did not put a hoof wrong in the test. I owe it all to him.” The rider was complimented on her presentation of the crowd pleaser of the 2022 KWPN Performance Test. “Upon his arrival I immediately told Andreas: ‘this is my horse, please let me ride him’. Riding a horse in such a grand arena is every rider’s dream. To me, it does not matter how the final pans out, I will always remember this ride.”

Great movement mechanics
The runner-up Elastic 11, bred by Daniela Werheit Waemeyen and owned by Helgstrand Dressage, was granted a 9.5 for his canter, but struggled with the walk. “The number one was a true highlight on all accounts, the other competitors left room for improvement in one gait. It sometimes resulted in nearly the exact same scores”, explains member of the jury Janine van Twist. This was also the case for Elastic 11 and Del Sogno 4, that obtained scores of 8.78 and 8.72, respectively. The Hanoverian number three, bred by Eibe Johannes and owned by Rothenberger Venturea GMBH, showed a powerful trot that was awarded an 8.9. “Overall, a very good class with a lot of quality, great movement mechanics and correct presentations”, concludes Marian Dorresteijn.

Photo: Timo Martis
Results 

Van Olst Sales online auction with 10 foals by World Champion stallions starting 4 August

Be able to join both sport & breeding

For the upcoming online auction by Van Olst Sales a total of 19 foals are for sale. With 5 foals from double World Champion Glamourdale and 5 foals by double World Champion Young Horses Kjento this collection is for sure interesting for both riders and breeders.

Further more offspring for this collection by Van Olst Horses stallions, Lantanas, Nalegro, Nacho, Jayson and Secret Lover.

All foals are not only by top stallions, but also from successful damlines in breeding or/and sport.

Take a look at the full collection here and make sure your ready for the final bid up starting Monday 7 August at 8 pm.

REMEMBER TO REGISTER HERE FOR THE ONLINE BIDDING.

Clear the stage for Hannover's best mares - Herwart von der Decken-Show

The best three-year-old mares from Hannover and the Rhineland will compete at the Herwart von der Decken Show. (Photo: Hannoveraner Verband)

Part of press release

Verden. On Thursday, August 3, the time has come in Verden: The best three-year-old mares from Hannover and the Rhineland compete for the title of champion mare. At 2.00 p.m. the first dressage mare on the triangular course will impress with her type and strength of movement. The Herwart von der Decken Show will be broadcast live on the internet.

On Thursday, 3 August, the time has come in Verden: The best three-year-old mares from Hanover and the Rhineland compete for the title of champion mare. At 2.00 p.m. the first dressage mare on the triangular course will impress with her type and strength of movement. The Herwart von der Decken Show will be broadcast live on the internet.

The date of the Herwart von der Decken-Show on Thursday is new: Right in the middle instead of in front, it also documents the importance of the connection of breeding and sport. About 50 dressage mares and 20 jumping mares were entered by the district associations. All of them were among the best at the past shows of the horse breeding clubs. The judges are breeding manager Ulrich Hahne and the two members of the presidium of the Hannoveraner Verband, Hergen Forkert and Matthias Klatt, as well as the Dutch stallion owner Paul Mais and Katy Holder-Vale. She is Chairwoman of the "British Hanoverian Horse Society". In addition to the champions and reserve champions, the best half-breed mare will be awarded. Another highlight: The best mare family of the past show season will be honoured with the Friedrich Jahncke Prize. 

The Verden Championships start on Tuesday with the qualifiers for three- and four-year-old riding horses. Wednesday belongs to the five- and six-year-old dressage horses. After the Herwart von der Decken Show on Thursday, Friday is all about the foals. After the presentation on the show grounds, the OnLive Auction will start in the Niedersachsenhalle in the afternoon. Saturday and Sunday will be exciting: The Hannoveraner Champions of riding and dressage Horses will be crowned and the Piaff-Förderpreis will be decided.

Glamourdale and Lottie were shining in pouring rain yesterday - their final show before Riesenbeck

Last competition before the European Championships for double Gold World Champion combination Glamourdale and Charlotte Fry at this weekends CDI3 at Peelbergen in the Netherlands.

And they are definitely ready to shine at another Championship, hopefully in better weather conditions than for yesterday´s Grand Prix Special. The big black stallion shows his Incredible obedience and qualities together with Lottie Fry, without any doubt doing his job all the way regardless the rain was pouring down - they just kept on doing their stuff together.

Super winner tests for both the Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special with 79,544% and 81,085%

CAN´T WAIT TO SEE THIS COMBINATION AT THE EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS in Riesbeck taking place from 4 - 10 September.

Glamourdale and Vitalis with top prices at Westphalian OnLive foal auction

2 x 67.000 euro top prices

An enormous collection of 99 foals were sold at yesterday´s OnLive auction in Münster-Handorf.

A total of 15 foals were sold for more than 20.000 euro.

45 foals for the 1st part and 54 foal for the 2nd part.

Top 3 foals from 1st part:

Here you find the entire price for 1st part.

Top prices from 2nd part:

Here you find the entire prices for the 2nd part.

Westfalen week has already started

Huge program for this weeks “Westfalen Woche”

Friday with Elite Mare Show and Saturday with 1st part of foal auction.

Around 110 foals will be at the ONLIVE auction starting Saturday 29 July at 3 pm.

Here you find the entire catalog for the Elite mare show.

1st part of auction collection here.

2nd part of auction collection here.

Parallel some of the best Westphalian sport horses are competing to be Champions of the year.

Here you find start and results for competitions.