The Holsteiner main licensing will take place as a pilot project in Elmshorn for the first time from 13 to 16 December 2023. Stephan Haarhoff, managing director and breeding director of the Verband der Züchter des Holsteiner Pferdes e.V., and Felix Flinzer, auction manager and managing director of the Holsteiner Verband Vermarktungs und Auktions GmbH, provide information about the concept in an interview.
What are the motivations for implementing this pilot project in Elmshorn in December?
Stephan Haarhoff: "Following the young stallion licensing held in Neumünster in spring for the first time this year, intensive follow-up discussions were held with those involved. The stallion candidates did not derive any notable advantages from the later date, and the trainers noted that the long period from pre-selection in November to the licensing in February was in need of improvement. The late February date not only lengthens the stallions' training period, but also collides with the preparation of mares for their performance tests and registrations. In a meeting with the stallion keeper representative body, the majority voted in favour of a date in December 2023 for the next Holsteiner young stallion licensing. The Holstenhallen had no capacities available at the desired time, which is why the event will be held in Elmshorn as a pilot project this year. Afterwards, there will be further discussions regarding the date and location of future licensings."
Felix Flinzer: "From a marketing perspective, the December licensing date is a significant improvement over the February date. By the spring date, many stallion keepers had already acquired their new additions, and international sport stables were largely travelling abroad for shows. In December 2023, an interesting collection of riding horses will also be offered for auction during the licensing days, expanding the customer and audience base."
What does the date change mean for stallions and exhibitors?
Stephan Haarhoff: "Due to the date change, the period between pre-selection and licensing will be significantly shortened to the benefit of the stallions and their trainers. The pre-selection will take place from 30 October to 2 November 2023 in Elmshorn. There are therefore only a good five weeks between this and the licensing event. The Pinneberg veterinary office responsible for Elmshorn was involved in the planning. Regarding the guidelines for animal welfare in equestrian sports, it is established that stallions of the 2021 crop born on or before 13 June can be registered for the pre-selection. Experience has shown that in past licensing years, very few stallions born after this date were registered anyway."
Where will the stallions be accommodated in Elmshorn?
Felix Flinzer: "At the time of the licensing, around 80 permanent stables can be provided for the stallion candidates in Elmshorn. From 2018 to 2023, generally between 65 and 75 stallions were registered for the licensing."
What changes will occur in the licensing procedure? And what further contents are planned as part of the event – beyond the components of the licensing?
Stephan Haarhoff: "Overall, the procedure of the licensing components is to be streamlined. A new feature will be that during free jumping, the stallions will no longer be led into the chute, but will run in freely."
Felix Flinzer: "The licensing in Neumünster follows a long-cherished tradition, and many spectators have concerns in this regard regarding the Elmshorn location. For the December licensing at the Verband facility, further atmospheric program highlights are planned alongside the schedule adjustment: for example, breeders, exhibitors and trainers will meet on Thursday already for a welcome evening for a chat. A show and breeders' party will be held on the Friday of the event."
How many spectators will have the opportunity to experience the excitement live in the hall? When will ticket sales start?
Felix Flinzer: "In the Fritz-Thiedemann-Halle, there will be 812 seats and approximately 300 standing places available. In addition, around 200 seats are planned for guests of honour in the indoor area. Public viewing facilities will be set up on the Verband grounds. Advance ticket sales are expected to start at the beginning of August."
Photo: Janne Bugtrup
