Stal Hendrix Special 2014 - English

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LAURA KRAUT: “WE SHARE THE SAME PASSION”

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JUMPING PEEL & MAAS IMPROVES EVERY YEAR

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ALL KWPN STUDS OF STAL HENDRIX

STAL HENDRIX SPECIAL

2014

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IMPORTANT DATES DON’T MISS OUT!

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PAUL HENDRIX: BREEDING AS FOUNDATION

COLOPHON Managing editor Luc van Moorsel Photography DigiShots Luc van Moorsel Persbureau Melissen Arnd Bronkhorst Elena Lucenti Photograpy Visit us www.stalhendrix.nl www.dutchhorsesales.com www.jumpingpeelenmaas.nl www.limburgseveulenveiling.nl Locations Stal Hendrix Baarlo Napoleonsbaan Zuid 32 5991 ND Baarlo T. +31 (0)77 477 1556 E. info@stalhendrix.nl

Dear reader, In front of you is the first edition of the Stal Hendrix Special.

We have bundled all the activities of our business into this newspaper. It gives a nice picture of the all-round business that our family has built up over the past 35 years. The fact we run the business together with our family makes us very proud. The third generation, Michel and Timothy, is ready to succeed us.

Stal Hendrix Kessel Rijksweg 45 5995 NT Kessel T. +31 (0)77 462 0428 E. info@stalhendrix.nl Like us www.facebook.com/stalhendrix www.facebook.com/dshs www.facebook.com/jpm www.facebook.com/lvv

Traditionally, Stal Hendrix is a trading stable that since the eighties has concentrated on the export to North America.

Although we have expanded the activities, the trading remains the most important mainstay. The leading international position of the Dutch horse certainly contributes to this. We try to contribute in holding onto this top position in the world ranking list. We do this by organising the Dutch Sport Horse Sales and the Limburg Foal Auction, amongst other things. But also through other facets of our business: our breeding farm, the training of jumping horses and the realisation of the stallion yard. The international show jumping sport which was previously carried out by Emile and now

by Michel and Timothy, emphasize this.

Contact We appreciate your opinion about this special. Please let us know what you think via Facebook or info@limburgseveulenveiling.nl

DISCLAIMER The content of this special is composed with great care.

Despite that, misprints in this special are subject to change.

Rights can not be dirrived from information in this special.

SEE YOU THERE

fYg

I would cordially like to invite you to make acquaintance with our business.

Enjoy the read.

Yours Sincerely, Paul Hendrix Stal Hendrix

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THE HENDRIX STUDS

LIMBURG

FOAL AUCTION

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 04 I STAL HENDRIX 08 I VITTORIO 10 I JUMPING PEEL & MAAS 13 I BUSTIQUE 15 I INTERVIEW LAURA KRAUT 17 I INTERVIEW PIETER KEUNEN 19 I DON DIABLO 20 I EL PRIMERO & ENTERTAINER 22 I INTERVIEW EMILE HENDRIX 24 I USTINOV 27 I STAL HENDRIX BREEDING 28 I LIMBURG FOAL AUCTION 31 I EQUINE MERC 32 I DUTCH SPORT HORSE SALES 34 I FANDANGO & FIRST VERDI 37 I INTERVIEW TWAN WILLEMS 38 I INTERVIEW LUC STEEGHS 39 I CONTACT & DATES

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STAL HENDRIX

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STAL HENDRIX The story of Stal Hendrix is truly a family story. A story with wonderful anecdotes and clear visions, with audacity and skill. A close-knit family where everything is about horses. Everything, absolutely everything. Because only then can such a business, that has been built up over the years, be realised. For that, both focus and devotion are necessary.

The story begins with Ton Hendrix. About 55 years ago. He was breeder of coldbloods. He later switches over to breeding riding horses. That is when the foundations were laid for the now worldwide renowned trading stable Stal Hendrix.

Sons Paul and Emile had equestrianism spoon-fed to them. Before they know it they are sitting on a pony. They hunger for more. The transfer to horses is quickly made. In 1977 Paul and Emile join the business. A logical step.

Over 35 years they develop Stal Hendrix into a renown all-round equestrian business specialised in jumping horses. Emile is one of the top riders in The Netherlands and even made it to the Olympic Games. Paul fulfils his job as trader with fervour, and together they form a successful duo. For a long time Stal Hendrix had just one location. This changed in 2005. The business outgrew its location.

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It was decided to build a new complex in Kessel, just three minutes from the home base in Baarlo.

Emile runs Baarlo, Paul runs Kessel.

Both brothers have children and in the meantime the new generation has made itself known. Michel, Paul’s son, is Grand Prix rider. He has claimed many victories, especially with the horses Wait and See and Noble. Timothy, Emile’s son, also competes at the highest level. He has already won the Grand Prix in De Warre and Roosendaal with his horses Vita R and Very Nice. In their twenties, both are driven sportsmen who can rely on the support of their father and uncle.

With Michel and Timothy, the family story continues. In that story selling horses is the most important factor. Bringing the right horse to the right rider, or the other way around. That is where Stal Hendrix’s strength lies. They make use of a stock of some 400 horses and a large international network. That is why the customer can confidently assume that he will find the perfect horse. A horse that lives up to, or even exceeds, expectations. In a manner that is committed and honest. Whether it is a young horse or a talented horse that can immediately perform at Grand Prix level.

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Trading stable - Stal Hendrix sells jumping horses to customers all over the world.

The majority of the horses are sold to North America. The others are sold to countries within the European Union.

Stal Hendrix’s clientele includes top riders such as Ian Millar, Nick Skelton and Laura Kraut.

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Stud - Since the end of 2012 Stal Hendrix has its own stallion yard at the Kessel location. There, the stallions can be trained by the stable riders throughout the whole year. In this way they are their own ambassadors at the competitions. A win on the Sunday? Then requests arrive on Monday. An ideal combination between sport and breeding.

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Training - Emile, Timothy and Michel train riders from all over the world. Riders from America, Canada, India, Turkey, Finland and Sweden come to Limburg to learn how to master the skills. A.o.the American rider Lauren Hester has had Stal Hendrix in Baarlo as her home base in The Netherlands for several years already.

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Breeding - Paul Hendrix is a breeder at heart. He is very committed to breeding in general. In particular he is proud of the breeding in Limburg.

There are about 25 foals bred at Stal Hendrix each year. And not just from the Hendrix stallions. Other Dutch, German, Belgium and French stallions are regularly used.

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SUCCESSFUL OFFSPRING STAL HENDRIX STALLIONS HAVE ALREADY PRODUCED MANY SUCCESSFUL OFFSPRING. SEVERAL OF THE STARS ARE PICTURED HERE.

Anatevka

Ustinov x Pierrot Winner of international classes for seven-year-olds.

Don Diablo

Vittorio x Calvados Winner of the KWPN Stallion Competition

Bright Csina

Vittorio x Lupicor

Vittorio x Ircolando Successful in international classes, ridden by Malin Parmler.

Overall winner Magna Racino Spring Tour 2012 for five-year-olds.

The rider is Joy Lammers of The Netherlands.

Blue Berry

Ustinov x Bal Pare Winner of several classes for young horses.

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VITTORIO,

PEDIGREE PRODUCER

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The in 2005 KWPN approved stallion Vittorio caused a furore in show jumping ridden by Pieter Keunen. They competed internationally at 1.50m level. The stallion is currently being ridden by Tim van den Oetelaar. It is partly due to his high-profile results that an increasing number of breeders are choosing the pedigree Calippo-son.

And successfully. Vittorio produced the reserve champion in the stallion show in’s-Hertogenbosch in 2013. A good reason to look more closely at this stallion with German influences.

Vittorio was born in Nusse, Germany, at breeder Otto Schultz’s yard.

As a two-year-old he was sold at the auction during the stallion show in Holstein. A year later he successfully took part in the KWPN stallion show. He was awarded his KWPN stud license in 2005. The bay Calippo-son is out of the Holstein mare Ma Belle. Ma Belle’s sire is the Turkish-bred thoroughbred stallion Martel. Emile Hendrix won many international jumping competitions on Martel.

Sports career Pieter Keunen has trained Vittorio from a three-year-old to a 1.50m winner. He says of the Calippo stallion: “I started riding Vittorio when he came back from the performance tests. We know each other through and through. He is a dream horse to ride.” You can tell Pieter has built up a special bond with this horse from the way he talks about him. He continues: “He is so elastic, flexible and easy to work with. I could sit on him all day long.” In June 2012 Vittorio swapped his permanent rider Pieter Keunen for Tim van den Oetelaar who took part in the Junior Nations Cup in the Reims, France. They were part of the Dutch team and won in the finals. In the Grand Prix the combination won individual second place. Vittorio won the most titles however ridden

by Pieter Keunen. In 2011 he came second during the Grand prix in Asten. During the CSI2* in Zelhem Keunen and Vittorio were placed 2nd. “In the meantime I have already trained many of his offspring.

The excellent riding qualities and beautiful build are always present.”

That made Pieter decide to use the stallion to cover his own mare. He says: “Although I think that he best suits a slightly heavier-built mare I have used him for my Lux mare, funnily enough that goes well too.”

Offspring Vittorio is now 12 years old and has many successful offspring. His most well-known son is Don Diablo (Vittorio x Calvados), this stallion is also owned by Stal Hendrix. Don Diablo, ridden by Pieter Keunen, won the stallion competition (D-year) in January 2013 during the stallion competition in ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Many of his offspring have done well at auctions such as the horses Blanche (Vittorio x Voltaire) and Be My Guest (Vittorio x Good times). These were sold at the jumping horse auction Dutch Sport Horse Sales in Weert for €68.000,- and €86.000,- respectively. The stallion George (Vittorio x Caretino) made an impression during his first test in December 2013. The large-framed stallion with his sharp conformation showed good ability. He is also interestingly-bred as he is out of the preferente Namulus dam-line and as a result could be very successful in ‘s -Hertogenbosch. Just as Vittorio himself, his offspring are uncomplicated, cooperative, careful and have excellent riding qualities. Vittorio can improve the conformation and movements of well-developed jumping mares. Vittorio can be used as a true refiner thanks to his excellent pedigree.

Well-known Vittorio progeny: Laura Kraut’s Cavalia Malin Parmler’s Bright Pieter Keunen’s Don Diablo 09 I STAL HENDRIX SPECIAL 2014 I

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“Each year everything is just that bit better” Many Whatsapps were needed to get them all together. The busy agendas did not leave much time for interviews. Eventually we manage to sit at the table with three members of the Hendrix family: Michel, Janou and Timothy. All three horse-mad thanks to their fathers - Paul and Emile - but also the organisers of the Jumping Peel & Maas competition. This competition, which has lots of classes for young horses, is for many riders the last preparation for the championships in Ermelo.

We are almost complete in the foyer of the Hendrix complex in Kessel, looking out over the rainy competition ground. Michel is held up by a discussion with the vet but joins us soon after. Growing up surrounded by the horses, Michel and Janou (Paul’s children) and Timothy (Emile’s son) learn a lot about the comings and goings of competitions. When Janou in 2007 went to Tilburg to study Sport, Economy and Communication she was given the chance to organise a competition herself. Together with Bas Janssen and Sharon Martens she put the first edition of Jumping Peel and Maas on the map.

Janou recalls the beginning: “We thought it would be fun to organise an event from beginning to end ourselves. The responsibility, organisation and the related commercial aspect always attracted us. It was a challenge to immediately choose a self-sufficient competition. That is not easy.” For that reason they called on Timothy and Michel for help. Timothy follows on from his cousin adding: “That Janou had to carry out this school project was actually an ideal situation. Michel and I had already been toying with the idea of organising a competition at the facility in Kessel. So we didn’t hesitate for a second when Janou approached us.” It was important to the organisers that the first edition would be an immediate success. In order to play safe they called on the expertise of Yvonne van Bergen. She runs the secretariat at many competitions and knows the ins and outs. An excellent move, as it happened, given that 3.000 visitors turned up for the first edition. The tone was set.

A once-over with the whip Michel emphasizes that each edition of Jumping Peel & Maas excels the previous one. “Whether it’s the competitors, the programme or the prize money. Everything shifts up a level. And so it should. We want to be a compact and national competition that has the look and feel of an international competition.” The others nod in agreement. It shows the unanimity of this trio. Michel continues: “An important role is cut out for our sponsors. They can meet here together in a relaxing atmosphere.” Unlike other competitions

VIP-guests are not appointed a particular table. The sponsors should be able to mix freely and to feel invited to do so.

The basis for the competition was and still is, the classes for young horses.

Logical given the fact that Stal Hendrix is known as a trainer of young talent.

Gradually over the years more national classes have been added. Jumping Peel & Maas has thus grown year after year. Which class is the trio’s favourite?

Janou doesn’t have to think hard: “I always find the Grand Prix the best. It is really popular with both riders and public. That can be seen in the tribunes.

They are absolutely packed full. It is the icing on the cake.” Another class which attracts many spectators each year is the spectacular Master’s jumping in which the riders have to indicate, before going into the ring, one jump that has to be raised by five centimetres. The next combination also has to indicate one jump at random, the effect being that the course gets progressively more difficult for the participants in the elimination race. Michel and Timothy never participate themselves. Why is that? Timothy: “Yes, more people ask that. It is nice that people seem to enjoy watching us ride. Maybe we will participate next time. Who knows?”

Halting is trotting backwards Even after five successful editions, the Hendrix-offspring cannot sit still.

There are enough plans in the pipeline, such as the idea to allow international riders to stable their horses at stables close to the competition ground.

Timothy: “The names of well-known riders such as Jos Lansink and Maikel van der Vleuten grace the competitor lists already. But that way we would be able to attract more well-known international names. That is something that we are thinking about.” Janou starts to smile and says without doubt: “Laura Kraut is a rider that we would love to see competing here. Or one of Ludger Beerbaum’s youngsters.” Michel’s telephone suddenly rings. He stands up.

He has to take this call. It is a customer, and customers go before (almost) anything else.

MICHEL TIMOTHY

JANOU

Dilemmas, dilemmas...

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EXTRA COMPETITION DAY vs. ONE COMPETITION DAY LESS In order to guarantee the quality, then rather one competition day less.

Certainly also to keep our volunteers motivated. They are extremely important.

ATTRACT WELL-KNOWN NAME WHO WINS GP vs. WINNING IT ONESELF It would be nice if Laura Kraut came, but it would be even nicer is she was placed second and I won.

WIN GP JUMPING P&M vs. GOLD MEDAL OLYMPIC GAMES Ha ha! I already know how wonderful it is to win the Grand Prix here.

That’s why I’ll choose winning a gold medal. So we’ll just keep training.

JUMPING PEEL & MAAS

Beautiful show jumping, Limburg hospitality and perfect facilities: that, in a nutshell, is Jumping Peel & Maas. It is a national competition that is always held in the last weekend of July. On 24th, 25th and 26th July Stal Hendrix in Kessel is the backdrop for this equestrian event. The first edition of Jumping Peel & Maas took place in 2009. The initiative came from Janou Hendrix and two of her co-students. Their course required them to complete a project as practical training. The competition has since then become a large-scale event with 840 combinations competing in thirteen classes. The event attracts 5.000 visitors annually.

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VERHAGEN HORSE SERVICE I I I A.I. STATION

BIRTH GUIDANCE

GRADING PREPARARATION

REARING

ALL STAL HENDRIX STUDS ARE AVAILABLE VIA US Verhagen Horse Service can facilitate all services for your horse.

All Stal Hendrix studs are available via us. We are happy to give you advice and we can provide extensive mare guidance.

Steffi Verhagen & Bustique (Indoctro x Grannus)

RIETVEN 4 I 5427 LP I BOEKEL I 0031(0)6 2249 7342 I 0031(0)6 2209 8570 STEFFI@VERHAGENHORSES.NL I WWW.VERHAGENHORSES.NL

BUSTIQUE Michel Hendrix Michel Hendrix trains Bustique. Success came quickly. The combination won the KWPN Stallion competition 2010/2011. The combination competed at L-level for the first time mid-2010.

Bustique seems to perform better the higher the jumps get. Michel says of the Indoctro son: “He is always eager to work. For a stallion he has an incredibly laid-back nature.” The highlight for Michel Hendrix and Bustique are the classifications during the six- and seven-year-old classes in CSI2* Wierden, CSI2* Neeroeteren and CSI2* Roosendaal. This year the combination took part in their first CSI3* competitions. They were placed 8th during the CSI3* Zandhoven.

Michel explains what Bustique’s strong points are in the course: “His canter is a real advantage. He is naturally very quick. Furthermore I can turn very sharply in the jump-off. But also, if there is a possibility to ride one stride less, then I can always take that risk with Bustique.” How does Michel see the stallions sporting future? “I want to train him further to Grand Prix level. I think that we are well on our way.”

High expectations characterise Bustique’s life. His talent was recognized by various horsemen even when he was a foal. Bustique has lived up to these expectations by winning the KWPN Stallion Competition in 2010. Nowadays he exceeds expectations. He is now eight years old and in 2013 he competed in his first international three star.

Dam-line Bustiqe was born in April 2006 in Prinsenbeek, Noord-Brabant. Breeders Hans van de Wijngaart and Henk Schippers (Breda) are the proud owners of their performance mare Jutha (Grannus x Argentinus x Zeus). They chose to use Indoctro as sire. Besides the fact that Indoctro is a producer of many healthy, easy to ride winners, there was something else that caused them to make this decision. Previously, in 1997, Jutha had also given birth to an Indoctro offspring; the legendary show jumper Mustique. Together with the Frenchman Yann Candele the pair formed a successful partnership. The combination won the Grand Prix in Palgrave (Canada), the Kubota Grand Prix in Halifax (USA) and the Nations Cup in Wellington (USA). The combination of the Grannus mare and Indoctro seemed therefore to work well.

From foal to stud stallion Bustique immediately stood out as a foal. Partly due to his dream pedigree and strong movement it seemed a good idea to Van de Wijngaart and Schippers to enter him in the Prinsjesdag Auction in 2006. That turned out to be a wise decision.

Bustique was bought by Bob Prakken for €46.000,- Bustique then went to Black Horses in Sliedrecht to mature. The owner of Black Horses, Jan Vink, saw something in the stallion and became a co-owner. Prakken and Vink decided to enter the Indoctro son in the KWPN Stallion Competition. A logical step. They thought that a stallion such as Bustique could be an asset to breeding as he has four generations of topproducers in his pedigree. All four - Indoctro, Grannus, Argentinus and Zeus - are, or were, listed in the top ten of the World Breeding Rankings.

Jutha also produced the international jumping horse Noor (s. Libero H). Carry Huis in ‘t Veld won several international competitions with Noor.Noor is also the mother of rider Ibrahim Hani Bisharat’s Grand Prix jumping horse Team Harmony Hypnotic (Baloubet du Rouet x Libero H). Leon Kuijpers’s 1.35m horse Uiltje (Lux x Grannus) is also a Jutha offspring. In short, Bustique’s dam-line is bursting with talent. His father Indoctro needs no further introduction.

Bustique passed with flying colours. He gained high scores for ability and attitude. In view of his exceptional scores he was invited to the champions competition where he became reserve champion. In 2009 he was sold as a wildcard in the KWPN Select Sales collection where he fetched €220.000,- Bustique was bought by Paul and Emile Hendrix and the Canadian Susan Grange.

The stallion remained in The Netherlands and moved to Kessel.

Offspring In 2010, twenty of Bustique’s 133 offspring were submitted for the KWPN progeny tests.

It emerged that Bustique can add technique and ability to the breeding of jumping horses. The foals have a nice jumping model and correctlybuilt fundament. We can thus ascertain that as sire Bustique passes on more from his grandfather Grannus than from his father Indoctro.

The best-known offspring of the relatively young stud stallion is Footloose (photo) (Bustique x Concorde x Cantus). This mare from 2010 was crowned champion of the three-year-old jumping mares in 2013. Cor Loeffen about this mare: “Footloose is a very complete horse, especially over the jump. She is youthful, has a good wither and stands out due to her agility and analysis at the jump.” Bustique’s first crop of foals (the F-year) will make its appearance in the sport in 2014. Michel Hendrix: “We are very interested in this crop. It seems very promising. We certainly expect that Bustique’s offspring will be aboveaverage good.”

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SEF BOOTS Tower of Strength

LAURA KRAUT

“We share the same passion” For almost twenty years now, show jumper Laura Kraut (48) has been representing the United States in the Olympic Games, World Cup Finals and Nations Cup competitions. In 2008, during the Olympic Games in Hong Kong, she formed part of the Gold-winning American team. Many of her successes have been on horses that she has bought via Stal Hendrix. The everenthusiastic horse-fanatic tells in this interview about her cooperation with the Hendrix brothers, that started sixteen years ago.

“I was fortunate enough to be introduced to Paul and Emile by Kate Bomgaars, one of my customers here in America. Kate had bought a horse from Stal Hendrix and was very pleased with it. When she wanted to buy another horse she asked me to go to The Netherlands with her to advise her.

That was in 1998. I had never bought a horse in Europe before. At that time I only rode American Thoroughbred horses. So, as you can imagine, I was a bit nervous.

Sometimes you have to have some luck in your life. And I had luck. We found a suitable horse for Kate. But in addition I struck up a friendship with Stal Hendrix. I enjoy working with people who are just as passionate about the equestrian sport as I am. My next trip to The Netherlands was quick to follow. It was just a few weeks later that I bought Liberty. That is the mare on which I competed in the Olympic Games in Sydney in 2000. We came sixth with the team. Then I bought my absolute all-time favourite horse: Anthem. I won many, many Grand prix with that horse. He was eighteen when he won his last Grand Prix in Barcelona in 2009.

As you can understand, I was happy to return to

For thirty years Stal Hendrix has been able to rely on the help of Jozef Boots, better known as Sef. Each year the 65-year-old horse-lover from Maasbree rears about 40 Stal Hendrix foals. He has the young horses at home and goes and checks them each day. His involvement means nothing escapes him. Sef also sometimes transports Stal Hendrix horses from A to B in the lorry.

The working relationship between Sef and Stal Hendrix began in 1985 with Ton and Nellie, Paul and Emile’s parents. As well as running his own business, he helped out if horses needed transporting or feeding. Sef remembers: “I look back on the working relationship with Ton and Nellie with much pleasure. They were so involved.

I will never forget the evening I had to drive a horse to a clinic in Germany. When I arrived back in the middle of the night, Nellie was sitting in the kitchen waiting, with a cup of coffee for me. That is a really typical example of how generous they were.”

Limburg to buy horses, and I still am. Paul and Emile understand what type of horses suit me.

Many horses followed such as Miss Independent, Milano and Quickstar. I bought my current top horse, Cedric, from them too. The Harley VDL mare Constable (previously Cloë) who I bought during the Dutch Sport Horse sales in 2012, is a real promise for the future.

In the thirty years, Sef has seen a lot. Such as when the River Maas flooded in 1993. “There were about 50 young horses in the fields bordering the Maas. At a certain moment the water became so deep that the horses were left standing on an island which they didn’t dare leave. Emile fetched a horse from the stable and rode it to the island.

As he rode back all the young horses followed him. It was a risky decision but it worked, it was marvelous.”

Paul and Emile have become good friends of mine.

Their strength lies in the fact they give everyone the undivided attention they need. I know how difficult that is. They also know what I look for and then call me if they find a horse they know for sure I will like. A large part of my success is due to their devotion to making me happy with talented horses. They are honest, hard-working men. I am grateful that I met them.”

Sef has already reached pensionable age but is not yet considering stopping. He enjoys rearing the yearlings and two-year-olds as hobby far too much. “It stated with a few and has gradually expanded and now there are about 40 foals a year.

But it won’t expand any further. I need to have some time for my two grandchildren.”

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TIMOTHY’S WINNERS

VARANKA

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VERY NICE

VITA R

“During the first four years I won few rosettes” For eighteen years now Pieter Keunen has been part of Stal Hendrix.

As trainer of young horses - especially stallions - he is, for many a familiar face at national competitions. Pieter grew up in Blerick, surrounded by his father’s horses, and as a young man he rode purely on skill. That is different now. “I used to concentrate on riding through the finish line faultless. Nowadays I have to really school the horses, make them better.”

Pieter only goes for the highest that is achievable. He is not satisfied with anything less. “My job is only done once I know that I have got everything out of the horse that there is to get” Sitting on a horse is second nature to him. Being interviewed is not. Fidgeting with his cup of coffee, he undergoes the first questions “This is my fifth horse today, El Primero. Fantastic horse. We came third in the Stallion competition in Roosendaal.”

School years As a young man it was very quickly clear that Pieter was not really cut out for the school books. He did however motivate himself to follow the basic instructor course in Horst, after completing his Lower Vocational Studies. He recalls those times: “I was absolutely no student at all. At home, school came in third place. The horses came in first place, and in second place too, for that matter.” After his education he started to work fulltime at home. That sometimes led to confrontations. “My father was someone who never gave up on a horse. Always wanted to get everything out of them. A good quality, but he also did it with horses which I thought we were wasting our time with.”

Eventually the time came when both father and son decided that it would be sensible to gain experience elsewhere. “He asked me where I wanted to work. First choice was then easily Stal Hendrix, the most well-known yard near us.” The first four years were quite hard for Pieter as the philosophy behind training a horse was new to him. “Especially flatwork. Before then I did a lot based on skill. But for Emile and Paul that was not enough.”

During those four years Pieter, as he himself says, ‘won few rosettes’.

Stal Hendrix however did not lose confidence in him. He mastered the philosophy and with it regained success in the ring.

Pieter continues to learn and grow. Even in the past few years there have been enough positive developments. “I now have more routine in my training sessions. Have just got more handy at it, but that is logical after all these years.” Furthermore he has ridden in more international and twostar competitions. “I think that as a result of the big competitions I ride the young stallions better. Because stallions are more easily distracted, absolutely everything has to be correct. The schooling at home then becomes even more important.”

Special HPs Which horse has made the most impression on him? There is a pause. “I think the story of Vittorio and me is rather special. I trained him from the very beginning up to 1.50m-level. I have always been mad about that stallion, partly due to his excellent attitude. But Mojito is also a very special horse who I am very fond of. He has brought me a lot of successes, that helps of course too.”

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DON DIABLO Most people know Don Diablo as a well-known DJ. But for Dutch horselovers this Vittorio offspring is becoming increasingly known as a successful KWPN stud stallion. This progeny out of the Niki-pedigree was born in June 2008 and is steadily growing in his role as sports horse on the one hand and sire on the other hand. Ridden by Stal Hendrix rider Pieter Keunen he performed exceptionally during the KWPN Stallion Competition in 2012. What will the future offer him and what can he contribute to jumping horse breeding?

We put the questions to his rider Pier Keunen.

H

arm Hartlief from Niki Stables is a breeder in Peize, Groningen. The name of his yard betrays the fact that he mainly breeds from mares out of the Niki-bloodline. The Niki-bloodline produced an innumerable number of talented sport horses. Several jumping horses from this bloodline are Ekstein, also bred

by Harm Hartlief, Lajos and Palfeinier. Zolaniki, Don Diablo’s dam, is also out of this famous Niki bloodline.

Paul Hendrix bought the now keur mare at the Star Sale foal auction in Drachten in 2004. As a three-year-old Zolaniki was covered by the Holstein stallion Vittorio (Calippo x Martel). The stallion was then already owned

by Stal Hendrix. This led to the first and only foal that Zolaniki has produced up until now: Don Diablo.

Zolaniki was trained to Z-level in The Netherlands and was then sold to Norway. She is now competing at 1.40m level, ridden by the Norwegian rider Celine Marie Foss. In May 2013 the combination was seventh in the Silver Small Tour Finals during the CSI2* Drammen in Norway. Don Diablo’s great-dam is the ster preferente performance mare Zaniki (Joost x Kassander x Sinaeda).

She is the dam of the KWPN stallion Ekstein but also of the international jumping horse Joniki (Derrick x Joost) who was successful at 1.40m level, ridden by Peter Geerink. Lajos (Faust x Joost) was also a full-brother of Zaniki. Peter Geerink won various 1.60m courses with the gelding. Zaniki is the mother of the Belgian Olympic rider François Mathy’s ZZ-horses Orphaniki (Faust x Joost) and Heartdancer (Legaat x Joost).

Vittorio Vittorio is leaving his mark in Dutch breeding. He already has two KWPN approved sons. As well as Don Diablo, Fandango (Vittorio x Odermus R x Burggraaf) was registered in the Dutch studbook in 2013. Vittorio is a true sire. He produces well-developped, very rideable offspring with a fantastic character. Don Diablo is a good example of this. Pieter Keunen says of the chestnut stallion: “Don Diablo is really a very good horse. He has exceptional power at the jump, shows much ability and is also very fast. A horse with an incredible attitude.

He really works with you. Don Diablo is by nature very careful, but is sensible. He always keeps his focus on the jump.”

Results Don Diablo’s most eye-catching result to date is, without doubt, his victory during the KWPN Stallion Competition at L-level in ’s -Hertogenbosch. There he showed just how easy the stallion is and how focused he is on his job. In the impressive surroundings, especially for young horses, Don Diablo was not only quickest but remained faultless too. He was champion of the day as well as overall champion.

Don Diablo’s sports career got off to a flying start immediately. One of his first competitions was the competition for four-year-old jumping horses in Roggel.

He won first prize. Later, in 2011, a third place followed during the Stallion Competition in Deurne. And also a fifth place in the VION Cup in Ermelo. In November 2013 the combination was sixth in the Stallion Competition in Deurne at M-level.

Offspring Despite all his successes in the sport Don Diablo could not immediately gain the trust of breeders. There were not a lot of coverings. The progeny test shows that Don Diablo passes on a lot of from his father. Well-developed foals with a good rectangular model. Characteristic too is the appealing head, the charisma and elasticity. Don Diablo can add technique and elasticity to the breeding of jumping horses. He seems to best suit nicely-built mares.

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El Primero: The Professor El Primero already seemed to be very promising during the performance test. We can now say for certain that he is very promising. Ridden by Pieter Keunen, El Primero is invariably at the top of the results lists in the KWPN Stallion Competition. They were third in Roosendaal and are fifth in the interim standings after Zuidbroek, with one competition still to go.

The in 2009-born son of Numero Uno is an intelligent stallion. El Primero’s nickname is “The Professor”. For a young stallion he is very laid-back and picks things up very quickly. This has not gone unnoticed by breeders. Partly due to his exceptional performance scores - four times an 8.5 - and outstanding appearances during the stallion shows, he has gained the trust of the breeders. There were plenty of breeders willing to give this young stallion a chance.

It comes as no surprise that El Primero’s sire, Numero Uno, produces good offspring. With no fewer than eight KWPN approved sons and many international sport horses, he is wellknown in Dutch breeding. Numero Uno is also well-known worldwide. As well as a world famous father, El Primero also has a well-known dam-line. His pedigree goes straight back to the

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world famous jumping mare Especiale who had many successes with Eric van der Vleuten. Eric about Especiale: “What I will always remember is her fantastic attitude and the fact that she was always so careful. She did not have the best ability but she was always so eager to win. She compensated for everything with her character.

I recognize that character and desire to work in El Primero too.” The mare competed in the sport until she was twelve. After her sport career Especiale (studbook name Erica) was used for breeding, where she proved to be invaluable.

Pieter Keunen is El Primero’s appointed rider.

We asked him for his experience with the stallion: “He is a dream horse to ride, very sensible. I think that he can contribute ability and rideability to the breeding.” Pieter tells of the sport path that he has set out for El Primero. “We ride the young stallions in as few a competitions as possible. It is better when they can gradually gain experience and slowly get stronger. With El Primero I will do the Hendrix Competition, the KWPN Stallion competition and then Jumping Peel & Maas as the perfect preparation for the championships in Ermelo. I have a lot of confidence in El Primero.”

Entertainer: A true showman The five-year-old Entertainer is a KWPN approved stud stallion and is owned by Stal Hendrix. In 2009 he received excellent performance scores including an 8.5 for his canter and an 8 for his posture, balance and technique. In the meantime, his first generation offspring have been born. These foals are making a promising impression.

A true sire: that is how the big Warrant-son can already be described.

The young stallion received a very good foal report. He produces offspring who resemble him a lot in terms of appearance and charisma.

During his progeny test it emerged that his foals are correctly built and have sound legs. The foals showed three good paces whereby the canter was characterized by good take-off and balance. The committee also stated that Entertainer could add model, appearance, galoppade, pedigree and jumping technique to the breeding of jumping horses.

Entertainer’s pedigree is an accumulation of top genes. On his sire’s side we find Warrant, Corland and Voltaire. Three stallions who have amply earned their spurs in the international jumping sport. Sire Warrant had a long, successful career, ridden by Henk van de Pol. The combination won the VHO-Prize in ’s-Hertogenbosch and the Nations Cup in Drammen, amongst others. Following these results Warrant was included in the B-team and was on the point of being promoted to the Olympic team. But in June 2013 Warrant was sold to the American Wil Simpson. Simpson won team gold during the

Olympic Games in Hong Kong. On Entertainer’s dam’s side we find the proven Lavsca-bloodline. Dam Shilavsca Fortuna, who herself jumped at Z-level is also the dam of Cooper (Carolus II) who was sold for €105.000 during the Expo Talent Sale in 2011. Her full-sister produced the very promising Zellobee (s. Berlin) who is currently successfully competing at 1.45m-level, ridden by the Russian Christriakov Spartak.

Entertainer is trained and competed by Pieter Keunen. The combination became third at the VION-Cup for four-year-olds. The 37-year-old rider from Linne says of Entertainer’s development: “He has undergone a tremendous development. When I rode him after the 70-day test he was still really distracted by his environment. That has now got much better and he is more focused on the jumps. This still needs more improvement. But he jumps with so much ease that he can afford to be slightly distracted.” He continues enthusiastically: “I think Entertainer is a true promise for the future. Check it out: he has good riding qualities, is careful and has really good reflexes.

Those are three characteristics that a good jumping horse really needs.” How does the 2014 sports year look for Entertainer? “He gets the same training as every other young stallion. The things we are working towards are the KWPN Stallion Competition, the Stal Hendrix Competition, then Jumping Peel & Maas and then the championships in Ermelo.”

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Emile Hendrix:

What is the best horse that Stal Hendrix has ever had?

The first one that springs to my mind is Ian Millar’s Big Ben (Etretat x Flevo). A fantastic advertisement for Stal Hendrix. Not only in Canada but throughout the world. Laura Kraut’s Anthem (Dutchboy x Triton) was in my opinion also such a horse.

For more than a quarter of a century Emile Hendrix was part of the absolute top of the Dutch show jumping sport. The horses Finesse and Livius are inseparably associated with his name. He is known as a true team player; in his sporting career just as in business. For more than 35 years he has been part of a team with his brother Paul.

Together, they run the successful equestrian business Stal Hendrix.

In conversation with Emile Hendrix, looking back at his life.

“How often as a child did I not jump obstacles made from buckets and broomsticks. I really cannot imagine a life without horses. My father was a breeder of coldblood stallions. He understood his profession. But due to modernisation the workhorse disappeared and the popularity of the riding horse increased. He became supplier to various riding clubs in Limburg. I was thus spoon-fed with equestrianism. To be honest I knew all along that I wanted to be a rider. I very fleetingly once dreamed of a career in music. But dreams are deceptive. To this day I still cannot play any instrument at all.

No, Paul and I went into horses. But first I completed my secondary school education. The best day of my life was the day I finished school.

Afterwards I was given the tremendous opportunity to go and work as rider for Alwin Schockmuhle for one-and-a-half years. Through this I made many contacts in both Germany and further afield. Partly due to that I grew further in our business. That was a very organic process. My father always thought that there was not enough room for both of us. But the tasks became very quickly naturally split. Paul was the leader of the breeding and organised everything on the yard.

He was then also at home the most. At that time I was very often

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What is the biggest blunder you have made in your career?

We received an offer of just over one million for Aldato. We didn’t sell him at the time because we put his sports career first. With hindsight it would have been better to have sold him then, he didn’t develop as far as expected.

away at competitions. I got to know most of the customers during international competitions. But even more importantly, I was able to invite them to our yard to try out horses. Paul and I then sold them a horse. We were therefore both busy with the business, day in day out.

Once I stopped competing in 2002 this division of the tasks continued naturally. Paul, together with his wife Saskia, still concentrates more on the breeding than I do. I find the passion they exude where the breeding is concerned exceptional. It really is a great asset to the concept of Stal Hendrix. Especially when you look for example at the own-bred products in the Dutch Sport Horse Sales. That is a perfect combination of breeding and sport.

Paul and I understand each other infallibly. If for example someone from elsewhere comes with a proposition and we both immediately say ‘yes’ then the proposition is good. When we have to spend too much time discussing something then that is a sign that we shouldn’t do it. Furthermore Paul knows when he has apply the brakes with me or when to give impulse. The other way around is also true. That has just grown over the years. You learn from each other. In this way I learned from Paul that you should especially not look at others too much. You should believe in your own formula and keep to it. He also taught me that you have to very consciously choose the people with whom you do business. You can only do good business with good people. We both understand that, but Paul realised this earlier.

I realise that both Paul and I learned a lot from our parents. My father always said to us that if someone was prepared to lend a hand,

“Paul and I understand each other infallibly”

What tip would you like to give Michel and Timothy?

You must be able to accept and respect each others weak points.

If you can do that you can be a team. They are both very different and both have strong sides. I am confident that they keep up their reputation, just as we have done during the past 35 years.

Do you ever miss your riding career?

I do not regret one minute of my career. But I also do not regret for a second that I stopped. It was a well-considered decision, not an emotional decision. Although it was a wonderful time, I have never had the feeling that I wanted to go back to it.

they would always make an income. His attitude was “don’t just talk, get on with it”. We were brought up with that attitude. My mother was a binding force within the family and thus also within the business. From her I learned that you should be grateful to people. And then not only when you need them. Especially now my parents are no longer with us, I often think about them. Then I try to imagine how they would have handled a difficult situation.

I am so proud of the fact that Stal Hendrix has been around 35 years and that we have managed to realise 35 years of unbroken growth. Even in difficult economic times we did not falter. The best move we ever made was to not let go of the American and Canadian markets. Even in lesser times. We always remained loyal to our customers there. That has contributed to the position Stal Hendrix has acquired in the equestrian world these days. As a family business we can appropriately be very proud of this. I know many examples where things have gone wrong within families. I cannot of course rule anything out regarding the future, but fortunately our successors, Michel and Timothy also have a good relationship with each other.”

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USTINOV 24 I STAL HENDRIX SPECIAL 2014 I

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You can easily spot Ustinov’s offspring. They can bascule over a jump like no other, and have excellent technique.

They open up behind well and are not afraid of the devil.

Ustinov himself performed at 1.50m-level ridden by the Dutch rider Caroline Muller. Immediately after receiving his KWPN stud certificate, and even beforehand, Ustinov could count on the trust of breeders. Ustinov is now twelve years old and he is still a much-desired stallion.

In this article we will look at what this power-horse has achieved.

Ustinov’s story begins with G. van de Veen based in Heelsum, Gelderland. But Ustinov was not born in Gelderland. Dam Haifa had critical health problems so Ustinov was born in Germany, in a clinic in Hochmoor.

Much was done to ensure this operation succeeded. The combination of Haifa and Libero H had been previously successful, producing in particular the KWPN stud stallion Nijinski. This full-brother of Ustinov was sold to America for the hunter sport.

Haifa is a keur preferent performance mare (Nimmerdor x Marco Polo), bred by VDL Stud in Bears. Her mother also produced the KWPN approved stud stallion Glendale (Nimmerdor x Marco Polo). Haifa was reserve champion of the keur mares at the UTV. Ustinov was her seventh and last foal. Ustinov’s sire Libero H is one of the celebrities of show jumping. Ridden by Jos Lansink, Libero H was the winner of the World Cup in ‘s- Hertogenbosch in 1994.

During the last decennium the stallion has become a true producer of jumping horses. At least 25% of Libero H’s offspring that are competing are performing successfully at international level. Most especially in combination with Nimmerdor-daughters he produces top horses, for example the KWPN stud stallion Icoon and the Zangersheide approved stallion Iowa.

Sire The beautiful Libero H-son is a true sire. He can be widely used but is not suitable for every mare. Hans Horn about Ustinov: “In my opinion he is a stallion who passes on many qualities, especially ability and carefulness.

The characteristics you want to see in a jumping horse.

He reminds me of his father. Libero H also displayed exceptional commitment.” For which mare can you best use Ustinov? Hans: “For a mare that herself has height and body. It is better if the mare also has some pedigree.”

Ustinov has already produced many successful offspring.

In 2013 three Ustinov sons were selected for the second test. The year before three were selected for the ability test. In 2011 two of his sons were selected for the second test.

Several Offspring Anatevka (Ustinov x Pierrot): Pieter Keunen - 1.40m Abarlo T (Ustinov x Concorde): Sarah Johnstone - 1.40m Backstory (Ustinov x Amulet): Jennifer Rossire - 1.50 Barola (Ustinov x Zeus): Tim van den Oetelaar - 1.40m Bestinov (Ustinov x Indorado): Dutch Five-year-old Champion and DSHS auction star

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From foal to three-year-old

FOAL

Born & weaned Stal Hendrix has 25 broodmares originating from the best dam bloodlines in The Netherlands. After the foals have been weaned they are placed in group stables.

01 Free jumping & turnout Once the foals have become yearlings they are allowed to do free jumping.

Attention is paid to the type, movement and technique. Yearlings who do not satisfy the requirements are sold.

02

Free jumping & Holstein In the Autumn free jumping is done again. It is then decided which stallions should be gelded. The horses then go to a breeding centre in Holstein and return when they are three years old.

03 Homeward & breaking-in The three-year-olds return to Kessel and are allowed to free jump again.

They are then broken in and trained by riders in the region.

04

3-YEAR-OLD

Breeding as foundation of the Hendrix concept Fifteen years ago Stal Hendrix decided that it did not want to be totally reliant on the sale of horses to the market. Paul and Emile saw the added value of a breeding farm that corresponds with the philosophy of the trading stable. Specifically, produce breeding products that can play a role in the international jumping sport. In this article we ask Paul Hendrix to talk about his philosophy regarding the breeding part of the Stal Hendrix concept. “In the beginning we looked for mares who had proven themselves in the sport. Mainly in America and Europe.

We brought them back to our yard. We notice that we give our business a stronger foundation through the addition of own-bred foals. We found many people who were prepared to help us develop this concept.

You can definitely not do it alone. The training of the three-year-olds for example is done by many different riders in the South of The Netherlands.

We try to sell the best of our own-bred horses via the Dutch Sport Horse Sales. Either that or they remain here in training to train them to a higher level. The pedigree dams that we brought back from America such

as Liberty, My Girl, Isabella and Bonita are now being succeeded by the second or third generation. These mares gave our breeding farm a flying start. Since then, we have expanded the number of brood mares to 25, all originating from performance bloodlines.

This has resulted in several approved stallions and well-performing horses internationally. We are, of course, very proud of this. I continue to strive for horses who jump with quality and who have a correct and appealing build. As well as sports qualities such as light-footedness and suppleness a horse should also have charisma, in my opinion.

We have now reached the point where our young homebred products can offer an improvement to people wishing to progress to a higher level in breeding. Stal Hendrix can be of added value for example if a breeder is looking for young mares with a top pedigree. We have, after all, already done a lot of selection for them. For those people interested we provide them with honest advice that corresponds to the breeding objective.�

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FOALS UNDER THE HAMMER

The name gives it away slightly. The Limburg Foal Auction is an annual auction in which dressage and jumping foals from Limburg and surroundings go under the hammer. In 2013, the auction achieved an average sale price of â‚Ź7.800,- and 78 foals changed owner. This puts the auction in third place out of all the KWPN foal auctions in The Netherlands.

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LIMBURG FOAL AUCTION SEPTEMBER 24 th 2014 Many lovers of horse-breeding already have it marked in their agendas: the Limburg Foal Auction. Each year the closing event of the Dutch foal auction season. This year the auction will be held on 24th September. The last two years have seen a number of important changes implemented. We discuss them with organiser Luc van Moorsel.

The twenty-five-year-old from Brabant explains: “From 2000 to 2011, the organisation was in the hands of the Limburg Foal Auction Foundation. That was a driven club of breeding-fans that was set up by enthusiastic volunteers. After several years of disappointing sales figures, the foundation found a solution together with Paul Hendrix. Stal Hendrix took over the organisation. The auction was thus put in the hands of an experienced party with more commercial perception.” But the organisation of such an auction is not something that you can just do alongside everything else. That is why Luc was recruited. Since March 2012 he is employed by Stal Hendrix and, in addition to the Foal Auction, he is also responsible for the jumping horse auction, Dutch Sport Horse Sales. He explains: “The Limburg Foal Auction is an honest and reliable auction with competitive prices. For buyers, our auction is a perfect opportunity for them to buy, in relaxed surroundings, foals selected by an expert selection committee.”

Limburg is traditionally the breeding ground for jumping. The dressage share during the auction was thus previously small. How did the organisation deal with this? Luc regarding the turning point: “It is the story of the chicken and the egg. If you don’t have dressage foals in the collection then it is difficult to attract buyers of dressage foals. But if you don’t have buyers of dressage foals in the room then it is difficult to attract dressage foal breeders to the selection days.” There were two options to break this circle: specialise or attract more dressage foals.

Specialising would, in the Limburg Foal Auction’s case, result in an auction exclusively for jumping foals. This option was not chosen as

the taking over of the auction included the philosophy of the Limburg Foal Auction: provide a sales channel for breeders from Limburg.

Given the fact that breeders in Limburg - albeit to a lesser extent - also breed dressage foals, the second option was chosen. The Limburg Foal Auction’s dressage supply needed a stimulus. Luc: “Gertjan van Olst came at exactly the right moment with his proposal for cooperation. A respected name in the dressage world who wanted to join forces with our auction, that was exactly what we needed.” That Gertjan van Olst’s arrival paid off was quickly clear. “The dressage foal entries for the selection days tripled in comparison with the year before. In order to give it more impulse we set up a special dressage selection committee. We also held an extra selection day, at Gertjan’s yard in Den Hout, exclusively for dressage foals.” With an average auction price of €9.210,- for the dressage foals the confidence of both breeder and buyers has been won and the 2014 edition is looked forward to with anticipation.

Borderless breeding The number of sales outlets for Dutch foals will increase in the near future. Luc van Moorsel explains: Countries such as China, India and Russia are showing increasing interest in equestrianism. The demand for good breeding products is increasing faster than the supply. I therefore expect there will be an increasingly more international clientele at the Limburg Foal Auction. This will also benefit the price development. We will have to have a few more years of patience before the sprint actually takes off. What we see with countries such as China, is that they are currently looking mainly for ridden horses. It is just a matter of time before they become interested in breeding and start looking for good Dutch breeding material. As foal auction therefore, you can only grow by improving your international presence.”

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START UP:

Equine MERC New entrepreneurs can always use some publicity. Just one phone call was therefore enough to generate enthusiasm for an interview with Luc and Daisy. Over the coming years they will organise the Limburg Foal Auction and the Dutch Sport Horse Sales for Stal Hendrix. The enterprising twenty-somethings set up the company Equine MERC in January 2014. MERC stands for Marketing, Events, Relations and Communication. They support entrepreneurs organising equestrian events. They also help companies in the equestrian sector in defining and carrying out a clear marketing strategy. In this way busy entrepreneurs have work taken off their hands and can concentrate on their core business. We agreed to meet in the ever-convivial ‘s-Hertogenbosch to hear more about their plans.

Who is Daisy van Nieuwkasteele?

Daisy van Nieuwkasteele (27) from Rotterdam completed her Bachelor degree Small Business & Retail Management in 2009. She has ridden since childhood.

A job in the Sales Promotions Department of the KWPN was therefore the ideal combination of her hobby and her degree. For three years she organised, amongst other things, the KWPN Select Sale and government-subsidised trade missions to India, China and Russia. She was also responsible for the foreign marketing campaigns. The beginning of 2014 was time to take a new step. Together with Luc van Moorsel she started a new company: Equine MERC.

Who is Luc van Moorsel?

Luc van Moorsel (25) is from Erp in Brabant and lives in ‘s Hertogenbosch. He studied International Business and Languages. As part of his course he also worked for six months at the Dutch Embassy in China, carrying out market research for the KWPN. Luc wrote his graduate thesis by appointment of the Sligro Food Group in Veghel. In 2012 he started at Stal Hendrix where he was responsible for organising the Dutch Sport Horse Sales, the Limburg Foal Auction and for the marketing activities of the trading stables. His hobbies are training young horses and photography.

“It feels good that Stal Hendrix has confidence in us” The front door swings open the smiling Luc opens it wide, we are guests at his home. “Welcome, we don’t have an office yet. The overheads have to stay low, right?!” Daisy waits for us at the top of the stairs. Not much later coffee is served with, how could it be otherwise, a “Bossche Bol”.

Both Daisy and Luc have ridden horses since childhood and have not let go of the sport since. Daisy started work for dressage rider Laurens van Lieren after her studies. She helped Laurens by taking charge of the marketing activities and the organisational tasks. Daisy says: “Because of my first job with Laurens I realised that working in the horse business does not just have to be about mucking out stables. What can be better than making your hobby your job?”

Luc also found that out two years ago when Paul Hendrix approached him to organise the Dutch Sport Horse Sales and the Limburg Foal Auction. He explains: Before then, I was not planning on working in the horse sector.

But the idea of working for a renown trading stable such as Stal Hendrix really appealed to me. You can learn so much from their ideas and way of doing business.”

Daisy tells what motivated them to set up Equine MERC, while Luc pushes the knob on the Senseo-machine again: “When I worked for the KWPN I noticed that equestrian entrepreneurs were often looking for ways of presenting their business optimally. They often have no understanding whatsoever of marketing and communication.” Luc continues: “Our unique selling point is that we have experience in both. Through our studies and years of experience with horses we are the link between the equestrian entrepreneur and the marketing tools.” Daisy gives an example: “ You can have an excellently-running business but to portray that clearly in a promotional video, that is a different matter.”

Their first customer is Stal Hendrix with the Limburg Foal Auction and Dutch Sport Horse Sales. Luc: “This is a very good example of our added value. Paul and Emile need to concentrate on the horses and the customers.

They shouldn’t be busy compiling the catalogues and checking whether the odd-jobbers are on time.” Daisy says: “It gives us a good feeling that Paul and Emile have confidence in us. Projects such as these are great opportunities for us to show our worth.”

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GOING ONCE, GOING TWICE

The Dutch Sport Horse Sales is an auction for talented young jumping horses.

The annual equestrian top event is organized by Emile and Paul Hendrix, Yves Houtackers and Neil Jones. The auction will be held on 23rd September 2014 for the eleventh time.

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DUTCH SPORT HORSE SALES SEPTEMBER 23 rd 2014 SELECTION COMMITTEE MEMBER: Yves Houtackers. He tells about his many years of experience as member of the Dutch Sport Horse Sales selection committee.

Yves Houtackers (39) was born in Sittard. As show jumper he represented The Netherlands several times at international competitions.

In 2005 he was thus part of the Dutch team that won Bronze during the European Championships. In more recent years he is trainer to both national and international show jumpers. He does this from his yard in Weert, located on the ‘De IJzeren Man’ complex. Since September 2013 he can add an impressive title to his CV: Sports Director of the CHIO Rotterdam. He is married to Ardy. Together they have sons Philippe (10) and Benjamin (14). Yves has been involved as a Dutch Sport Horse Sales committee member right from the very beginning.

International horsepower There are two things necessary in order to make an auction such as the Dutch Sport Horse Sales a success. The first requirement is a strong collection of four-year-old, five-year-old and six-year-old jumping horses with an exceptional amount of talent. The second thing that must not be lacking is buyers for these HPs. If one succeeds in combining these two aspects then that is excellent. If one succeeds each year, and then for ten consecutive years, then that is admirable. We ask Yves Houtackers for his experiences.

Yves recalls the beginning of the Dutch Sport Horse Sales: “My father-

in-law, Adri Gordijn, was a faithful visitor of both foal and horse auctions in Germany. In Oldenburg in particular. He saw a market for the same in The Netherlands. There was nothing like that here at the time.” The idea of the owner of ‘De IJzeren Man’ found audience in the horse traders he approached: Paul and Emile Hendrix, Neil Jones and Yves Houtackers. All four are horsemen through and through.

When we ask about the strength of the auction he replies: “The young horses that are included are followed by the selectors right from the beginning. The majority of the horses come from Stal Hendrix. Paul and Emile know them like the palms of their hands. The horses have all had an honest and sound training. It is then our job to match these quality horses with the right riders.

Developments In the ten years, Dutch Sport Horse Sales has put itself on the equestrian map worldwide. Many top international riders come to the auction to buy their future winners. This shows the confidence that riders have in the selection committee. That the committee has confidence in the collection is to be seen by the fact that every horse in the auction is also owned by one of these horsemen.

What will the auction be like in five years time? Yves: “We have to keep developing both the quality of the horses and the event itself.

Price-wise I hope that we can match the 2013 level because that was really exceptionally good.” Over the ten years the auction has already produced more than thirty Grand Prix horses. The new collection of talented young show jumpers will be made known in August 2014.

Stud Farm & A.I-Station Dirckx Offers the following stallions studs for covering:

Entertainer (Warrant x Corland)

Don Diablo (Vittorio x Calvados)

Bustique (Indoctro x Grannus)

Our station offers large stables, possibilities for grazing and a perfect room for A.I. The veterinairy guidance is done by animal clinic Ell. You can order semen of all Stal Hendrix KWPN stud stallions.

Dijkerstraat 28a I 6006 PS I Weert I 0031 (0)495 545 506 I 0031(0)6 5159 7818

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FANDANGO IS CHARACTERIZED

BY HIS LIGHTFOOTEDNESS AND CHARISMA The beautiful Fandango became the reserve champion during the KWPN stallion show in ‘s-Hertogenbosch in 2013. A big achievement. According to the selection committee, Fandango has the right mentality and exceptional reflexes. They were also very positive about his rideability.

Fandango is an offspring of the international jumping stallion Vittorio (Calippo x Martel XX). In 2009, Vittorio took part in the World Championships for young horses in Lanaken, ridden by Pieter Keunen. Since then, he has had a glorious career with victories in several 1.50m classes.

Fandango’s dam’s side is also very spectacular. He is an offspring out of the successful Balia dam-line. This dam-line produced many super athletes including Hamlet: the father of Olympic champion Hickstead. But also the jumping horse Pybalia, who took part in the Olympic Games in Los Angeles under Philippe Guerdat. The super mare Nirmette won five Grand Prix in 2007 alone and was placed 11th in the world ranking that year. Nirmette was ridden by Marcus Fuchs. Wimette, ridden

by Michel Hendrix, and Tobalio, ridden by Albert Voorn, can also be added to the long list of Balia-winners.

Fandango’s exceptional pedigree, in combination with his light-footedness and charisma make him a special stud stallion. He will make his first appearance in the jumping sport in 2014.

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WHERE GOLD AND SILVER UNITE Exceptional qualities and an impressive pedigree. First Verdi, who was KWPN approved in 2013, has both. As his name suggests, he is a son of the Olympic jumping stallion Verdi. Verdi won team silver in London with Maikel van der Vleuten. Despite his young age, Verdi already has two approved sons of which First Verdi is one of them. Verdi’s offspring does very well in sport; for example the horse Bibi-Sijgje that won the semi-finals of the VION-Cup in 2011.

However, it is First Verdi’s dam-line that makes him really special. Mother Votti Lottie is a ster prok daughter of Fuego du Prelet out of the pref prest mare Ielottie W (by Voltaire). She is also the granddam of Wiesielottie W, who competed at Grand Prix level ridden by Willem Greve. The Lotti-dam-line guarantees top jumping

FIRST VERDI horses. The dam-line also produced Vindicat W (Olympic gold medal with Peter Charles), Maybe Forever (winner of the Grand Prix in Dortmund with Bernie Traurig) and Biesielottie with Laura Kraut. Furthermore, this breeding-family produced the KWPN stud stallions Amadeus, Arlando, Irco Polo and Safari.

According to the stallion committee First Verdi is a stallion with much presence. He is a well-developed stallion with good jumping conformation. He has three well-developed gaits out of which his canter really excels. His canter was rewarded with an eight, just like his jumping ability. He received high grades for his balance, technique and attitude. First Verdi is an honest and reliable stallion which can contribute correctness and scope to jumping horse breeding.

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Atec Aanhangwagens BV Molenstraat 24 - 5437 AB - Beers tel. 0485 - 322 322 e-mail: info@atec.nl

TWAN WILLEMS

“IN THOSE DAYS PAUL WENT BY MOPED TO CUSTOMERS” If anyone is part of the furniture at Stal Hendrix, it is the 59-year-old Twan Willems. He has worked there for 37 years. He started as rider and is now responsible for the more than 200 horses that fall into the category ‘foal to three-year-old’. We asked the manager of ‘the young stock’ four questions.

1. How did you end up at Stal Hendrix?

Originally I am a carpenter. After my education I worked in my father’s rose nursery for half a year. But my heart was in horses. So I chose to go and work for Van den Brand Stud in Haarsteeg. After a while I was ready for something new. So when Ton Hendrix, the father of Emile and Paul, asked me to come and work for him I did not have to think twice. Ton knew me via my brother, who occasionally did business with him.

2. How big was Stal Hendrix when you began?

It was a mixed business with cows and horses. Not that big.

When I started Grandpa Hendrix had ten young horses and fifteen riding horses. There were more cows than horses.

But after five years the horse business took the upper hand.

I rode between eight and ten horses daily. If Emile was at a competition I rode the other horses and made sure that the yard was in order. It was much smaller than it is now. We did not have an indoor school and when it snowed we went to an indoor school in Kessel. Paul was still at school. In those days he went by moped to the customers.

3. How did your career develop at Stal Hendrix?

For some 15 years I rode horses for Stal Hendrix. But I was an all-rounder so I also prepared many young stallions for the grading. The number of horses increased and more riders were taken on. Partly due to my age, I started to concentrate on other areas such as breeding and raising. Now I advise in the breeding and the stallion yard.

4. How did the breeding department develop?

It began really when Grandpa Hendrix bought two Rigoletto mares via an acquaintance up North. Very gradually the number of brood mares increased. We now have 25. Paul really expanded it in 2012 with the indoor school and barn stabling in Kessel. From then on I went to work in Kessel, before then I had always worked in Baarlo.

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The 47-year-old rider Luc Steeghs, has become an indispensable member of the staff at Stal Hendrix, having worked there for 25 years.

Arriving at the Hendrix complex in Baarlo we met him, how otherwise, than on a horse. “I’ll just do a few more jumps and then I’ll be with you!”

Luc and Eclair in Arwnhem (2000)

LUC STEEGHS, SENSIBLE MENTOR Once at table he recalls at length his enjoyable youth, during which he acquired his father’s passion for horses. As well as being independent in the agricultural sector, Luc’s father was also chairman and commander of the Panningen Riding Club. To tell the truth, he never really wanted to be a professional rider. “No, that only became clear to me later. After my higher secondary school education I did my military service for a year. Afterwards I started work immediately as a slaughterhouse poultry inspector for the NVWA. My intention was to keep horses as a hobby as I would not be able to earn my keep.”

But in the eighties professionalisation of the horse sector accelerated. Forerunners in this were Stal Maathuis and Stal Hendrix. As a result of this, he began to wonder. Could it really be possible to earn your keep as a rider? “Paul Hendrix saw me get a difficult horse round a course at a competition in Panningen. Afterwards, he asked me if I would like to work for them. I was 22 at the time and had fulltime job with a permanent contract. So I really had to think hard about it.” His reply to Paul typifies his character. Luc doesn’t take unnecessary risks and makes well-considered decisions. “What is important in your life? If I look at it critically, then it is that my work can offer me a certain security.

The permanent contract that Stal Hendrix offered

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me settled the matter. I wanted to give it a try.”

At the beginning Emile was the first rider. As second rider Hendrix employed Wiel Heber.

Reinier van de Maas followed Wiel. “After Wiel I became second rider. And I am still here. Over the years my working relationship with Emile and Paul has become a relationship of trust.” Luc sees the business gradually becoming more mature.

What is Stal Hendrix’s strength according to him? “Look, selling a horse is not difficult. But continuously selling horses to the same people, that is an art. That you can keep customers satisfied and that they themselves bring new customers.”

Showpieces The horse that brought Luc the most success is Eclair (Elanville x Ramiro). “I started riding Eclair when she was three and I trained her until she was eight. Character wise she was certainly not the easiest but she was a true athlete.” The combination won the Grand Prix in Maastricht in 2000. The grey mare was just seven years old. The following year Eclair competed in ten Grand Prix making never more than one fault.

Unfortunately Eclair broke loose one day, and galloped off. “On the way she slipped and fell and broke something which caused internal bleeding.

She died unfortunately as a result of the bleeding.”

But the optimistic Luc adds that the positive happenings have by far the upper hand. A big success for Stal Hendrix was Leandro (Hemmingway x Sultan). A home-bred product that as a four-year-old was Dutch Champion.

“That year I rode eleven horses in the National Championship for Young Horses. Seven of them went through to the final.”

Impassioned lessons Since 2012 Luc is federation coach for Ponies and Children, appointed by the KNHS. A logical step, given the fact that training young people has always been very important to him. He proudly tells us about his new job. “I believe that I should not keep the knowledge just to myself. The sport needs well-trained young riders. Only in this way can you be a strong horse country in the future too.” He finds it important that people handle their horse or pony responsibly. He gets very annoyed with people who blame the horse and who never look whether they themselves are actually to blame. “You have to keep constantly delving into improving, optimising the way of riding your horse.” Luc is still busy with that last every day.

But for how long does he plan to continue riding?

“I still feel very fit. I still really enjoy myself every day when I can improve a horse, so I don’t envisage a career stop in the near future!”

IMPORTANT DATES Do you not want to miss out on anything? Put this important dates in your agenda quickly. We would love to welcome you during our events in 2014.

Stal Hendrix stallion show Jumping Peel & Maas Dutch Sport Horse Sales Limburg Foal Auction

Wednesday April 9th From July 24th untill 26th Tuesday September 23rd Wednesday September 24th

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WHY ARE YOU SO INTERESTED IN BREEDING? My grandfather bred carriage horses. When he died at a young age my father took over the horses. He changed over to KWPN horses. So I grew up with it. I first sat on a horse when I was three-years-old.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR STAL HENDRIX? I started in the Spring of 2011. That was a special moment.

When I was nine I said to my father that one day I would work for Paul Hendrix.

HOW MANY PEOPLE IN TOTAL RUN THE STALLION YARD? In principle I run the stallion part together with DaniĂŤlle.

We collect the semen and treat it in the laboratory. In the weekends Twan helps too. Everything is done in consultation with Paul and Saskia, they are always informed of everything.

WHICH STALLION IS YOUR FAVOURITE AND WHY? Difficult question, they all have something that appeals to me. I often give breeders the advice that if they want a beautiful, commercial foal then they should use Vittorio.

WHICH STALLIONS HAVE YOU USED TO COVER YOUR OWN MARES? For my Contendro II x Ahorn Z mare I used Bustique. An Indoctro x Ahorn Z was to be sold so I used Vittorio. That way I knew that the new owner would get a beautiful foal.

For my Landor S x Corland I used El Primero.

OF WHICH YOUNG STALLION DO YOU HAVE HIGH EXPECTATIONS? Entertainer. He is so agile and has a good attitude. He can do everything really. He is sometimes a bit tense at competitions but when I see him jumping at home, time and time again, he is phenomenal in his way of going.

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INTERVIEW

STEFFI

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“Stal Hendrix�

Jumping horse breeding: start with the highest achievable Over a twenty year period the breeding farm of Stal Hendrix has expanded into a high-level cultivation pool.

Top talents such as the KWPN-approved Don Diablo and Fandango are examples of this. But so is the national champion of the three-year-old jumping mares, Footloose. By using international jumping mares with a genetically good pedigree as broodmares after their sports career, Stal Hendrix has ensured an excellent foundation in its breeding. You can contact us for breeding material out of these proven sport bloodlines. We will happily provide you with advice.

Stal Hendrix Kessel Rijksweg 45 5995 NT Kessel 0031 (0)77 462 info@stalhendrix.nl www.stalhendrix.nl