Around 30 Holsteiner Verband stallions faced the scrutinising eyes of breeders and interested parties at the weekend, as the Holsteiner Verband’s stallion station had invited guests to its traditional presentation, which has now heralded the start of the breeding season.
Managing Director Felix Flinzer was accompanied by presenter Wolfgang Kohne, who entertained the audience with informative insights into the dam lines and sporting achievements of the families. Holger Hetzel had also accepted the invitation to Elmshorn and offered his commentary on the stallions from a sporting perspective. Right at the start of the presentation – whilst the now three-year-old stallions were free-jumping – Hetzel revealed that he had already been keeping an eye on the young sires at the most recent licensing event. He was particularly taken with the eventual champion stallion, Dark Zuccero by Diarado. “And I would have liked to buy him,” Hetzel revealed. “But Felix Flinzer made it clear to me that this special genetic material should be kept within the country for the breeders – I think that’s worth supporting.”
The Nations Cup rider also had words of praise for the older stallions on the course. “There are some really interesting sport horses coming through here, and I’d love to have a go on them myself,” he smiled. He also highlighted the training provided by the Elmshorn rider team, consisting of Lucas Wenz, Arne van Heel and Maria Bodega, who were supported this weekend by Mathies Rüder and Tjade Carstensen.
Of course, the star Holstein sires were also a must-see, including Casall by Caretino, Clarimo by Clearway and, as the crowning finale of the presentation, the former champion stallion Diarado by Diamant de Semilly with his sons Dinken and Dark Zuccero. Diarado, a four-time WBFSH ranking leader, proved himself to be in top form and full of vigour under the saddle of Mathies Rüder, even at the age of 21.
Three free-jumping sessions featuring Holsteiner Association stallions were raffled off, with all proceeds going to the Holsteiner Young Breeders’ Association. Anyone who was unable to watch the Association stallion presentation live or via the live stream can catch up on it in the ClipMyHorse.tv media library.
Two champion stallions, two Holsteiner Association stallions: Diarado (left) and his son Dark Zuccero
Photos: Janne Bugtrup (Cover photo: Million’s Way by Million Dollar and Arne van Heel)
