Stephex Magazine

Stephan Conter

WHERE TALENTS ARE MADE The Stephex Premises

Carefully maintained greenery, traditional red brick buildings, modern equine facilities and loads of open fields. At the Stephex Group Headquarters in Meise, Belgium, you are welcomed to an equine paradise. With seven world class riders, and over 150 top showjumping horses the Stephex name has grown to become a leading international showjumping and trading stable. The brand was founded in 1986 by a Meise local Stephan Conter. He obtains an exceptional understanding of the qualities a leading showjumping horse should carry. Their mentality, physique, and pedigree will shape their excellence in the sport. This, combined with his entrepreneurial vision the Stephex Stables has grown to what it is today.

The Stable Manager

e175 boxes throughout our four stable buildings

First Stephex exclusive breeding collection auction

The beginning of Brussels Stephex Masters in 2014

BEYOND THE FENCE

A glimpse into the Stephex Stables

In the 39 hectares the Stephex Stables facilities have been divided into different sections. The five stable buildings provide 175 boxes. Two of the buildings are reserved for client use. The Stephex riders and clients enjoy four outdoor arenas. Three sand ground arenas totaling 15 m2 and grass arenas of 28 m2 provide the riders plenty of space to train in. Four large indoor arenas give shelter during rain or snow. The most recently finished indoor arena has an impressive 3,200m2. The premises also include housing for grooms and riders, fully equipped veterinary facilities, a 2,5 km canter track, the Brussels Stephex Masters grounds, and the Stephex Office.

Sports make us better. Active sports make us physically and mentally healthier. But passively enjoying sports also does a lot of good to us. From a winning swimming competition in youth, a crisp smash in the volley or a flawless exercise on the beam. Such sporting moments inspire us and bring out the best in people.

Sport is like cornstarch for our society: it is a binding agent between young and old, male and female, rich and poor. Look around you at any sporting event: the whole world is cheering together.

As Flemish Minister of Sport, I support our (top) sportsmen and women. After all, they take all of Flanders in tow. They inspire us. They encourage people of all ranks and positions to exercise and sport more.

Enjoy. Support. Experience sport.

Sporty greetings

- Flemish Minister of Sport Ben Weyts

© Foto’s: Belga

AUDI SITS DOWN WITH STEPHEX RIDER DANIEL DEUSSER: A

peek into his love for the equine sports

Bronze at the Olympic Games

At Stephex Stables in Meise Audi meets the originally German top rider Daniel Deusser, also known as ‘Double D’ and currently 12th in the FEI jumping world ranking. With a grandfather who bred horses and a father who also participated in competitions, riding is in his blood. After some initial successes, Daniel joined Stephex Stables in 2012, after which his results continued to improve. For example, he won the final of the World Cup Jumping 2014. In 2016 he finished in third place and took the bronze medal at the Olympic Games in Rio. Countless other victories have followed.

Every week is different

Daniel tells the Audi team that the most difficult thing in this sport is understanding that you are working with animals. As a rider you can never be 100% sure of your plans during a competition. “There is always the possibility of an injury, or the circumstances during a competition can be different from during training. It may suddenly start to rain while you were training in good weather, ambient noise plays a role… all of these can cause the horse to be distracted, leading to mistakes or injury to the animal. As you never know the course nor the look of the obstacles beforehand, many factors in the sport cannot be trained for.

The course designers create technical courses, and our job is to finish them flawlessly. Each week the courses vary in terms of distances between jumps, arena surfaces, weather and crowds … This makes the sport interesting. You train for something, but you never know exactly what to do until half an hour before the game.” Shares Daniel. “The rider can never forget that they are working with an animal. We must work in full partnership with the horse. It is our responsibility to build trust and do everything in our power to let the horse perform its best round. Showjumping is teamwork at its finest: completely based on non – verbal, feeling driven communication with a 800KG animal.

At the Brussels Stephex Masters Daniel Deusser will be seen with his top horses. “The circumstances during Brussels Stephex Masters are exceptional. We have 2 large grass arenas, warm-up arenas, the ideal conditions for jumping, enough space, the necessary stables ... you really feel that this event was made by and for horse lovers. Everything looks beautiful and is well organized. The competition, along with the entertainment and lifestyle village attracts a large audience. The partners also have a vital role in making the event what it is. In short, this year’s Brussels Stephex Masters will be a very interesting total spectacle.” says Deusser. The Brussels Stephex Masters presents one of the most prestigious classes worldwide: the CSIO5* Rolex Grand Prix, presented by Audi. The best riders in the world compete for a prize pool of €500,000 including the latest Audi A8 e-tron.

This article is based on a complete interview made for the Audi magazine. Find the full article on the Audi Belgium website.

Audi Q8 e-tron

THE STEPHEX HORSETRUCKS

Where teamwork hits the road

Thanks to their constant innovation and success Stephex Horsetrucks have become a familiar sight on roads worldwide. With their three distinct brands (STX, AKX, and Ketterer) the company has solidified its position as an international leader in the industry.

Design and Engineering

The entire process, from design to delivery, is managed within the Stephex Group: “The process begins with close collaboration between our engineering and design teams. We gather input from customers, considering their preferences and specific needs. Once we have a clear vision, we create detailed 3D models and prototypes to refine the design”, says Tom Kerkhofs, the Stephex Horsetrucks Sales Director.

Production of the Horsetrucks takes place in Hungary. The large-scale factory of Stephex employs about 700 people, from engineers to designers. “In our factory, all trucks are made by hand. We focus on quality and accuracy. Through a thorough quality check we ensure that all our products are produced correctly and with great care”, Tom says.

Quality and Functionality

Tom emphasizes the quality of the Stephex Horsetrucks: “We prioritize using high-quality materials that provide durability, stability, and safety like steel and aluminium. The horsetrucks boast impressive functionality. They feature luxurious living spaces with sleeping accommodations for up to 6 people, expansive bathrooms, well-equipped kitchens, and ample storage. The horses also enjoy a comfortable space with easy-loading ramps, advanced light technology, optimal ventilation, and more.”

Customization is a strong suit of Stephex Horsetrucks. Different interior layouts, equipment, and optional features are offered to cater individual preferences and needs. Sales and design teams work closely with customers to create personalized solutions, ensuring their Horsetruck is tailored perfectly to their style and requirements.

Customer Service and Garage Support

The company’s after-sales service is what sets the Stephex Horsetrucks apart from the competition, with an extensive garage team dedicated to maintaining strong customer relationships. “The service team aims to provide comprehensive support even after the initial purchase, offering prompt and reliable maintenance services to ensure that each Horsetruck continues to perform optimally throughout its life. Customers can rest assured that their vehicles are in capable hands, as the garage team consists of highly skilled technicians with a broad expertise of the Stephex Horsetrucks”, Tom explains.

International Success

Stephex Horsetrucks’ success extends beyond Belgium, with an ever-growing international presence. The company’s dealership partners and Stephex Ambassadors, represent the brand’s values and commitment to excellence. They contribute to the brand’s global reputation. Showcasing versatility and adaptability, Stephex Horsetrucks continue to be the preferred choice for equestrians across various disciplines worldwide.

“We prioritize using high-quality materials that provide durability, stability and safety”

- Sales Director Stephex Horsetrucks

Tom Kerkhofs

In our factory, all trucks are made by hand

STX MOTORHOMES

Let passion drive your journey with STX Motorhomes

The STX Motorhomes reflect Stephex’s ambition. After a remarkable success in pursuing perfection through the STX Horsetrucks, our team has become undefeatable. Years of engineering experience have led us to build luxury STX Motorhomes of the highest standards.

From spacious living areas to innovative technology, the Pop-Outs are the epitome of comfort on the road. In the adventurous STX 2 Pop Out, no rock will be left unturned. The Garage can transport a Fiat 500 or a Mini Cooper, giving you more freedom. The STX 3 Pop Out Motorhomes provide a great amount of storage and living area. With its luxurious options including a wine cooler, closed toilet and a hydraulic leveling system, this motorhome has become the ultimate home on wheels. Space will not be an issue in the STX 4 Pop Out. In the expanded bedroom and bathroom you will be taken to the realms of ultimate space. Whether you want to take your family and on a holiday or travel around Europe chasing races with your sports team, the STX Racing Standard model will fulfill your wishes.

30+ MODEL ENHANCEMENTS

Practiced through 30+ models, such as the most recent revelation: the STX 4 Pop Out.

200 + VEHICLES

Over 200 vehicles have been built. Throughout the years we have evolved from building motorhomes for recreational use, to designing Motorhomes for world renowned sports teams.

20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

Over 20 years of engineering experience. Our excellence roots in Horsetrucks. We have developed knowledge and strong engineering skill in building sturdy, long-lasting trucks. Space efficiency top materials at the forefront.

BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE BRUSSELS STEPHEX MASTERS

An exclusive backstage pass

Since the start of the Brussels Stephex Masters the Stephex Events Director Ellen van Guyse has been part of the organisation of the Stephex Events. Her deep connection to equestrian sports adds new insights to the event year after year. We had an exclusive talk with her, peeking behind the scenes of organizing an event like the Brussels Stephex Masters.

How has the Brussels Stephex Masters become what it is today?

Ellen Van Guyse: “What makes the Brussels Stephex Masters one of a kind is the strong connection between equestrian sport and an impressive lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality scene. We combine all these aspect into one event. It’s not only great for riders, but also for visitors, partners, and VIP guests. We brand ourselves as the Tomorrowland of equestrian sport. Even people who don’t have a clue about the sport are attracted to the event. That is our ultimate goal: attract a big range of audiences.”

What did you enjoy most during the preperations of the event this year?

Ellen: “This year we were able to continue to expand our team. This allows us to develop many new concepts. A good example are the ‘collabs’. We worked with some exclusive brands to create beautiful products. We are very proud of that.”

How do you manage to keep the event fresh and innovative year after year?

Ellen: “Innovation goes hand in hand with reflection. During the preparations as well as after the event, we have feedback sessions. Together with the team we discuss everything that went well, but of course also things that did not go smoothly. It is important to be critical. That is how you will make next years even better.”

“We broaden our horizons by observing how different events are organized. For example taking inspiration from a golf tournament or a music festival. This way we can continue to attract and entertain our different audiences.”

Could you tell us about the challenges and joys of organizing such a big event?

Ellen: “I get a lot of satisfaction for organizing the Stephex Events. Every year you run into unexpected problems, but all comes down to how you deal with them. In recent years I have learned that it is important to stay calm. There are always solutions, especially with a good team around you. I am a perfectionist and then often see many things that can be improved. All the noise disappears during the final show on Sunday afternoon. The worries vanish, and can really enjoy the atmosphere. I feel an incredible sense of pride towards the whole SX Events team, and of the accomplishment achieved.”

Read more about the ‘collabs’ on page 32

“We make the connection between the equestrian world on the one hand and lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality on the other”

- Event Director of the Stephex Events Ellen Van Guyse

Ken Ruysen, the Sports Director of Stephex Events, plays a pivotal role in Ellen’s team. His fervent commitment to equestrian excellence and his unwavering dedication to pushing boundaries make him an integral part of the event’s success.

What are the primary objectives you aim to achieve in each edition? How do you ensure the event evolves and improves each year?

Ken Ruysen: “The well-being of the horses is and will always be the main objective. The riders and grooms are high on the priority list. Our role is to facilitate the teams for them to deliver their best performances. Each edition is reviewed with the experiences and feedback from the year before. If you keep doing what you’ve done before, you lose the competitive edge over other events. This is only possible when you finetune the details and invest in the team behind the event. It is a corny thing to say, but I do believe that teamwork makes the dream work. Both with the professionals and our partners. We aim to share the sensation of the show with everyone. If we meet these objectives, we can improve on every edition and keep on making the Brussels Stephex Masters a highlight on the show calendar.”

Reflecting on your experience organizing, what has been the most rewarding moment for you, and what aspirations do you have for the future of this sport?

Ken: “For us as the organizing Committee, it is rewarding is to see horses and riders shine and the audience enjoying the show. Seeing all our hard work turn into an amazing experience for riders and fans, that is the best part. When receiving good feedback from the riders, the audience, and partners, we are pleased. We are also very excited that we can bring the Nations Cup to Brussels this year. believe we need to keep this unique concept going and contribute to the sport to make it even bigger. Let’s hope we can keep up the support of our loyal, amazing partners to let the event grow. All in all, I’ve been working with the Stephex Events team now for 5 years and it has been an unbelievable journey.”

“Seeing all our hard work turn into an amazing experience for riders and fans, that is the best part”

- Sports Director, Stephex Events Ken Ruysen

Teamwork makes the dreamwork T

HOSPITALITY

COLLABORATIONS

Where stories come together

Each year, Stephex Events presents an incredible opportunity for businesses to engage in active collaborations. This year the team went one step further and collaborated on merchandise with a couple of trusted partners

“We’ve had some great success stories through our partner packages”, the Stephex Events Director, Ellen Van Guyse says. However, this year, the possibilities of the partnerships have been elevated. She goes on: “As a company, we wholeheartedly believe in the brands we collaborate with year after year. We value these partnerships and aim to strengthen brands through likeminded collaborations. That’s why we are excited to introduce the ‘Collabs’ to our esteemed partners.” Well-known brands enthusiastically engaged in this creative process.

Ellen proudly shares: “Together with our teams, we’ve designed some eyecatching products. We are thrilled with the final results and can only hope that the public will appreciate them as much as we do.”

These exclusive collab products are prominently showcased in the Lifestyle Village during the event and are available as limited editions at the Stephex Events merchandise stand.

Ellen van Guyse

A special thankyou to our merchandise partners

“We have created a delicacy that captures the very essence of luxury and taste, for which both our brands are known”

- CEO of Cuberdon Léopold David Decroix

Gregory Bodo

Thrilling jumps, technical distances, and precise timings. These are some of the perplexities that showjumpers face in top level competitions. Gregory Bodo, a CSI5* International Course Designer, is the mastermind behind the thrilling courses you get to witness during the Brussels Stephex Masters. His passion lies in creating detail oriented and unified courses that push riders and horses to their limits. “Riders need to be alert from start to finish. Not a single obstacle should be overlooked”, he shares. With a relentless pursuit of fresh ideas, Bodo ensures an unforgettable experience that keeps the audience captivated and riders filled with excitement throughout the event.

Considering last year’s CSI5* Rolex Grand Prix Presented by Audi course design, were there some specifically challenging jumps?

Gregory Bodo: “At this level it is our aim to design a course with uniform penalties on all obstacles. According to the statistics gathered at last year’s Brussels Stephex Masters, there was a fault on every single fence. No fence was left untouched.”

Can you describe your motive in the placement of jumps? Why are they so technical?

Gregory: “For the CSI5* Rolex Grand Prix my goal is to find the perfect balance in the placement of fences. The competition arena ground is not completely flat. This will involve a loss of balance, adding a level of technicality to the course.”

“The distances between jumps play a big role in rider mistakes. Last year, the distance to the double Audi (vertical to oxer)forced riders to make seven open strides. Either the vertical or the front or back oxer pole was bound to fall. Another tricky line was riding eight strides from a two-meter-wide triple bar to a liverpool with shiny golden poles. In my courses riders need to be alert from start to finish. Not a single obstacle should be overlooked.”

What makes a course challenging/fun?

Gregory: “Nowadays course designing is an accumulation of details. Each detail carries its own secret. When using all parameters, such as a variety of jumps, the overall course profile, color of fences, the time allowed, the quality of footing, starting list, and so on, a course can go from good to fantastic. However, what I find vital is to have a conversation with the riders. It is important to ask questions and never overlook the efforts for the horses.”

Tell us about your biggest joy in designing last year’s course

Gregory: “Last year I was very pleased with all courses. The horses jumped great from Wednesday to Sunday. The atmosphere is good, the footing is of the highest quality, and really appreciate the grass field. The ring also has an unique shape. I really like it.”

Considering this year’s Nations Cup and 5*GP, what are you looking forward to the most in the competition?

Gregory: “The approach for the two competitions is different. Firstly, because one is a team and the other is an individual competition. Secondly because the Nations Cup runs with two identical rounds. 15 fences with some technical sequences are ridden twice. Faults occur naturally.In a Grand Prix we can propose a more delicate course. However, the priority is to see great sport, horses jumping at their best, and a lot of emotion.”

“ No fence was left untouched”

- CSI5* International Course Designer Gregory Bodo

The oxer Audi jump

THE NATIONS CUP

From rivals to riding partners

As the Stephex motto goes, no fence is high enough. That’s true for Stephan Conter, the CEO and Founder of the Stephex Group. The Stephex Events reflect his innovative character year after year. Last year his team kicked off the first Nations Cup showjumping spectacle hosted in Belgium in over eight years. This year the Stephex Events team kept the ball rolling.

Six countries will be competing under the lights. “A Nations Cup provides the audience and competitors with a unique thrill. One is not competing for themselves anymore but for their country. The audience can relate to the competition uniquely; they become patriotic and feel connected to the teams through their shared nationality. Even if you have no experience in showjumping, when your country is represented in the ring, each stride the horse takes is exhilarating. You get very quickly invested in the show.” shares Stephan Conter. This year Argentina, Mexico, Sweden, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, and the Netherlands will be competing for victory.

“I love hosting big spectacles and seeing people enjoy themselves. A Nations Cup is an important way to bring a new dimension to the show. This year will be the first time we host a Nations Cup at the Brussels Stephex Masters. In previous years we’ve put great emphasis on the evening shows. Competing under the lights is magnificent. Combining this with a Nations Cup on our big grass arena will be something to really look forward to.” Stephan continues. He also places great emphasis on the Stephex Events team and the partners of the Brussels Stephex Masters. Henders and Hazel are the main partner of the Nations Cup and have been a valuable partner for Stephex Events for years. Their insight and active contribution to the success of the show is vital. “Their collective vision with the Stephex Events team brings a Nations Cup like never seen before to the evening of August 25th.”

STEPHEX RIDERS

Get to know the riders!

Kendra Claricia Brinkop

What is your greatest memory?

Petronella Andersson

“All the firsts for sure are some of my greatest memories! My first 140cm class, jumping my first ranking class, and my first Nations Cup are moments that I will never forget.”

Daniel Deusser

What profession would you have chosen, If you weren’t an athlete?

“Good question, probably a Gardener.”

What is your greatest memory?

“The birth of my daughter.”

If you could have a lesson with any rider, who would it be?

“If he would speak a bit more, John Whitaker.”

What is your currently your favorite song to dance to?

“Anything by Taylor Swift.”

If you weren’t an athlete, what would you do?

“Real estate flipping. I would like to buy old houses, renovate them, decorate them, and sell them forward.”

Advice to aspiring riders?

“Keep believing in yourself.”

India Bussey

What is your go to meal before a show?

What is your favorite sport outside of riding?

“Any ball games. My grandmother was a tennis player, and my brother plays football, so I have been immersed in these sports from a young age. Football and tennis are great fun. I am quite good at them if I say so myself.”

If you weren’t an athlete, what would you do?

“I would love to be a doctor.”

Emilie Conter

What is on your bucketlist?

“For sure winning a CSI5* Grand Prix.

What is your favorite sport outside of riding?

“I tried Pilates on reformers, and I really enjoyed it! I also like to play Pickleball. My sister (Zoe) and I became real Pickleball enthusiasts. It was great!”

If you could compete against any rider, “Julien Epaillard. I would take Clochard, my

What would you do with $10 million?

“I would buy a horse for sure. Maybe two.”

Describe Kendra in 3 words:

“Kendra is very strong, loud, and really funny.”

What is a book, movie or TV show that you’ve been reading or watching lately?

“Big bang theory and Young Sheldon have been on my watchlist for a while now.”

“It is not so much a meal, but always need a cup of tea before I ride.”

If you could have a lesson with any rider, who would it be?

“I am very lucky to be based here and be able to ask all our amazing riders for help daily, and I think that there is something to learn from everybody.”

What are you looking forward to the most in the Brussels Stephex Masters?

“I am looking forward to riding there for the first time this year and hopefully having some good results!”

What is on your bucketlist?

“I would like to travel to Indonesia, Japan, and Australia. Somewhere far away that is very different from where I live now.”

What is your hidden talent?

“I am quite a decent cook. My favorite thing to make is a creamy pasta with chicken.”

What is a book, movie, or TV show that you’ve been reading or watching lately?

“My sister (Emilie) and I have been binge watching the old show Desperate Housewives lately. It’s a classic!”

Spot

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Casper Pommex Z (Chacco Blue x Kannan x Darco), Amigo – STX van Kattenheye (Emerald x Karandajs x Ircolando) and Betty Boop Pommex Z (Baltic VDL x Emerald x Heartbreaker) are foals to look out for at the Thursday night auction.

FIND YOUR FUTURE WINNER

The Stephex Exclusive Breeding Auction

At Stephex, we do not compensate for quality. The Exclusive Breeding Collection foals carry some of the most prestigious pedigrees. With sires such as Emerald, Scuderia 1918 Tobago Z, Heartbraker and Chacco Blue, and dams such as Erenice Horta, Krackotte Z Amaryllis, and Jeunesse van’t Paradijs the pillars for success are guaranteed.

As the Stephex motto goes, no fence is high enough. That’s true for Stephan Conter, the CEO and Founder of the Stephex Group. The Stephex Events reflect