On Tuesday 21 April and Thursday 23 April, the first selection trial for the 2026 World Championships Young Dressage Horses took place in Ermelo. The selection committee, consisting of Johan Hamminga, Alex van Silfhout and Janine van Twist, assessed more than 80 five-, six- and seven-year-old dressage horses. “We had two very good days,” Johan Hamminga said enthusiastically. “The weather was great and there was a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere. In all three age categories we saw horses with a lot of potential, which were also well ridden and performed solid tests. Especially for the seven-year-olds, the test is quite demanding, but we saw some very nice horses in the arena.” Improved tests The bar is set high at the World Championships in Verden, not only in terms of quality but also regarding training and harmony. “Riders increasingly understand what is required, and overall the standard of riding was good. The technical execution of the tests continues to improve; there is definitely an upward trend compared to previous years. At a first selection, we primarily look at the quality of both rider and horse, but we also pay close attention to the technical execution of the test.” Selected horses In total, the selection committee referred 22 five-year-olds, 17 six-year-olds and 13 seven-year-old dressage horses to the second selection round. Five-year-olds: Dante’s Empire (s.Dante Weltino) with Moisés Jover Azuar Lord Charmeur (s.Lord Europe) with Janina Tietze Pepijn van het Brabantshof (s.Boet 516) with Shannon van Manen Radetsky H (s.Lennox U.S.) with Cynthia Eggenkamp Ratina-Ray (s.Fürst Dior) with Demy Kurstjens Ready to Rumble (s.Le Formidable) with Saskia Poel Real Dream (s.Dynamic Dream) with Charlotte Fry Red Rock (s.Mowgli V.O.D.) with Geertje Hoogendoorn Rendez-Vous (s.Kjento) with Moisés Jover Azuar Renzo (s.Kjento) with Charlotte Fry Rituals De La Fazenda (s.Magnum De La Fazenda) with Thalia Rockx Rivivi Litchy US (s.Liamant W) with Moisés Jover Azuar Robijn Vda (s.Vitalis) with Cynthia Eggenkamp Rockstar (s.Le Formidable) with Saskia Poel Rockstar Millionaire (s.D’Avie) with Cynthia Eggenkamp Roebel (s.Romanov) with Kim Noordijk Roller-Coaster DH (s.Johnny Depp) with Rosa Vlaar Rose-Bel Taonga (s.Kjento) with Franka Loos Roseville (s.Blue Hors Monte Carlo TC) with Jesslin Vinkesteijn Royal Esther Svn (s.Glock’s Toto Jr.) with Danielle Heijkoop Rubinella Dh (s.Jameson RS2) with Isabel Lienesch Rufus Van ’T Houtsche (s.Jameson RS2) with Lotje Schoots Six-year-olds: Fiji (s.For Romance) with Kim Alting Franzmann (s.Fürstenball) with Beatrice Arturi Mattie P Fan Dulve (s.Pier 448) with Danielle Heijkoop Oege van Cayenne Stables (s.Yme 507) with Zoë Kuintjes Panamera (s.Vivaldi) with Astrid Langeberg Paulo WM (s.Kjento) with Marieke Cobben Perfect Ritme (s.Lord Europe) with Kim Noordijk Pina Colada (s.Governor) with Kirsten Brouwer Pitch Perfect (s.Le Formidable) with Vai Bruntink Pjethro (s.Kjento) with Charlotte Fry Plenza (s.Kensington) with Daria Sushchinskaya Prada ND (s.Kjento) with Lieke Knook Prosecco TC (s.Joop TC) with Lennart Bos Puy du Fou (s.Donier) with Sophie Welmers Pythagoras Wk (s.All at Once) with Franka Loos Roman Empire (s.Romanov) with Bart Veeze Tie Break (s.Glock’s Toto Jr.) with Leonie Richter Seven-year-olds: Hexagon’s Oprahmanda (s.Diamond Hit) with Tessa Kole Jedokus Hof (s.Nane 492) with Bennie van Es O Curro (s.Havanna II) with Marijke van Schaik Oberon (s.Kensington) with Daria Sushchinskaya Obredho (s.Johnson) with Brecht D’Hoore Obsession Taonga (s.Vitalis) with Lara van Nek Ocarl (s.Glock’s Toto Jr.) with Thalia Rockx Odi Murona (s.Blue Hors Farrell) with Tessa Kole Oliviera 3 (s.Sezuan’s Donnerhall) with Marina Welbers Olympia W (s.Ebony) with Vai Bruntink Ortisei (s.Glock’s Toto Jr.) with Julia Groenhart O’Toto van de Wimphof (s.Glock’s Toto Jr.) with Diederik van Silfhout Ozstralis Cottinglee (s.Sir Donnerhall) with Kirsten Brouwer Follow-up selection process The second selection will take place in Delft on 26 and 27 May. These dates have been adjusted due to overlap with the Dutch Dressage Championships. In addition to the selected horses, several combinations that were absent during the first selection with a valid veterinary certificate will also compete. They will have the opportunity to present themselves to the selection committee, provided they submit a video presentation in advance. The second selection also serves as the entry point for wildcard combinations. On 22 June, the best twelve horses per age group will return to Ermelo for the final selection. Schematic overview of the selection process Selection criteria Source: MvE for KWPN Photo: Wilma Frentz

Registration for the selection process for the World Championships for Young Dressage Horses has opened. The first observation rounds will take place on April 21 and 23 in Ermelo, and in the months that follow, it will be determined which combinations will represent the Netherlands in Verden from August 4 up to and including August 9. The FEI/WBFSH World Breeding Dressage Championships for Young Horses is the ultimate event where sport and breeding come together. The best five-, six-, and seven-year-old dressage horses compete in Verden for the world titles. Participation Combinations can register via Equicompetition until April 14 for the first selection moments on April 21 and 23 in Ermelo, with the possibility of late entry up to and including April 17. During this selection, the FEI Preliminary Dressage Test will be ridden for each respective age group. This will be assessed by the selection committee for the World Championships for Young Dressage Horses, consisting of Johan Hamminga, Janine van Twist and Alex van Silfhout. Horses participating in the selection process must have been registered as a foal with a studbook that is recognized and based in the Netherlands and is also affiliated with the WBFSH. As of April 1, 2026, combinations must be eligible to compete at the following levels: Five-year-olds: L2+10 / eligible at M level Six-year-olds: M2+10 / eligible at Z level Seven-year-olds: eligible at ZZ-Zwaar level Further selection process After the first selection, approximately twenty horses per age group will be invited for the second observation in Delft on May 27 and 28. The combinations selected in Ermelo will again present the Preliminary Test. This observation will also be the entry moment for the wildcards, who will present the Final Test. On June 22, the best twelve horses per age group will return to Ermelo. There, the Final Test will serve as the final selection moment. After this, the Dutch delegation for the World Championships will be announced. Schematic overview Selections Selection criteria Source: MvE for KWPN Photo: KWPN

In the past period, a request was submitted for the approval of the showjumping stallion Missouri van ’t Ruytershof. The stallion selection committee has evaluated this stallion and has issued a positive recommendation regarding the approval. The Board has formally ratified this approval. The fourteen-year-old Missouri van ’t Ruytershof showed a great deal of talent as a young horse according to the stallion selection committee, However, he did not receive every opportunity in sport thereafter. Nevertheless, this son of Bamako de Muze has competed up to Grand Prix 1.55m level. Positive contribution With his strong dam line, the stallion is very interestingly bred: his dam has produced no less than fifteen international showjumping horses, including two winners of a Global Champions Tour Grand Prix. This dam line is known for its good attitude and rideability, two characteristics that are of great importance in international showjumping. The stallion selection committee expects that Missouri van ’t Ruytershof can make a positive contribution to showjumping horse breeding, particularly with regard to attitude and rideability. Pedigree Sire Bamako de Muze descends from the influential showjumping sire Darco. This 1.60m stallion comes from one of the best producing mares in the world: his dam Fragance de Chalus produced 26 international showjumping horses, eight of which compete at 1.60m level. This daughter of Jalisco B is also the dam of the stallion Mylord Carthago. Strong dam line Missouri van ’t Ruytershof is out of the well-known mare Inathina van ’t Ruytershof, who competed at 1.40m level with Jos Verlooy. This daughter of two-time Olympic champion For Pleasure has produced fifteen international showjumping horses, including Luna van ’t Ruytershof (s.Levisto), ridden by Nicola Philippaerts, and Messi van ’t Ruytershof (s.Plot Blue), ridden by Janne Friederike Meyer. Granddam Diamanthina van ’t Ruytershof (s.Diamant de Semilly) was successful at Grand Prix level, produced three Grand Prix horses, and is the full sister of the Olympic stallion Emerald van ’t Ruytershof. The dam line continues with a daughter of Carthago who produced seven 1.50/1.60m horses. Requirements Missouri van ’t Ruytershof meets the veterinary requirements regarding the hock and navicular X-rays. The conformation assessment shows no remarks. The genomic breeding value OC is 97 (reliability 46%) and Missouri van ’t Ruytershof is not a carrier of the WFFS gene. Source: KWPN Photo: 1ClicPhoto*

The KWPN merchandise has been restocked in the webshop of Official Partner Emmers Equestrian. The webshop offers a wide range of stylish and functional products for both horse and rider. The popular KWPN polos and jackets have recently been replenished and are once again available. For horses, items such as the KWPN saddle pad and the thermal sponsor blanket are available. The anatomically shaped saddle pad provides an optimal fit and a high level of comfort, while the breathable lining helps keep the horse dry during riding. The thermal sponsor blanket, on the other hand, provides warmth and comfort after training or during transport, thanks to its insulating and breathable material. Official KWPN merchandise There is also plenty of choice when it comes to clothing. The KWPN polo, available in blue and white, combines a timeless look with wearing comfort. The KWPN jacket is practical and comfortable, making it ideal for everyday use at the stable or on the go. For colder days, there are quilted KWPN jackets for both men and women, complemented by a warm KWPN beanie. Finally, the KWPN Lucky Charm adds a subtle and personal detail to your horse’s equipment. Browse the full collection in the webshop and choose your favorite KWPN items. Go directly to the webshop Source: KWPN Photo: Sandra Karman  

In January 2027, the largest KWPN event of the year will return to Den Bosch. From January 20 to 23, the Brabanthallen will host four days dedicated to the KWPN Stallion Show. The KWPN Stallion Show traditionally forms the highlight of the breeding year, where breeders, riders, and enthusiasts come together to assess the newest generation of stallions. Over the course of four days, the presentation and selection of dressage, jumping, harness, and Gelder stallions take center stage. Due to the dates of carnival in 2027 and Jumping Amsterdam, the Stallion Show will not take place during its traditional weekend, but instead from January 20 to 23. Sport and show In addition to the inspections, the Stallion Show traditionally offers an extensive program featuring sport, shows, and presentations, showcasing top stallions, successful sport horses, and interesting breeding products. There is also plenty of opportunity for networking and knowledge sharing. Further details about the program will be announced in the lead-up to the event via the official KWPN channels. Source: KWPN Photo: Dirk Caremans

The KWPN will soon take a major step forward in the further digitalization of the organization with the launch of a new online platform. This platform consists of a completely redesigned website, a new database, and an updated “My KWPN” environment. In addition, KWPN will introduce an app, allowing members to have important information readily available on their smartphones at all times. With this renewal, KWPN aims to provide members, breeders, and riders with faster and improved access to information and services. The new website will feature a modern design and a clear structure, making important information easy to find. It will also be better suited for use on mobile devices. Behind the scenes, an entirely new database will be implemented, enabling efficient management and processing of data related to horses, breeders, and members. This will form the foundation for further digital developments within KWPN. Temporary unavailability of My KWPN for changes “My KWPN” will also be updated. In this personal environment, members will soon be able to easily manage their details, register foals, sign up for inspections, and view all information related to their horses. Due to the migration process, “My KWPN” will temporarily be unavailable in the near future. We will strive to keep this downtime to a minimum. Access to horse data via the database will remain available. Future-proof With this new platform, KWPN is taking an important step towards a future-proof digital environment for all members. Keep an eye on our communications for the latest updates regarding the launch of the new platform. Source: KWPN Photo:  KWPN

Gertjan van Olst has been part of the top level of the sport for many years and has scouted numerous Grand Prix and Olympic horses at a young age. Together with eight colleagues, he recently launched a new initiative, Dutch Dressage Traders. We spoke to him about his eye for talent and how he identified horses like Valegro, Everdale and Glamourdale early on. Gertjan has been at the foundation of many successful Grand Prix horses that have performed at the highest level, or continue to do so today. Currently, stable rider Charlotte Fry is achieving great success on the world stage with the KWPN stallions Glamourdale (Lord Leatherdale x Negro) and Everdale (Lord Leatherdale x Negro). “Both Everdale and Glamourdale came to our yard as foals. Even at such a young age, their posture, presence and movement impressed me to such an extent that I bought them when they were barely ten days old,” Gertjan explains. Scouted as a foal “At the age of three, they returned to us for rearing, after which my wife Anne, together with her riders, continued their development.” Gertjan explains that many of the young talents he identifies are bred from stallions of the Van Olst stud. “Most of the horses that have grown to the highest level under our guidance arrived here as foals. The same goes for these two top stallions, who are now performing so well with Charlotte.” Horses such as Illegro, Kjento and Pjethro followed the same path. “It really comes full circle: many of the foals we buy from our clients are by our own stallions, which we once discovered ourselves as foals. That makes it very special,” Gertjan says, when asked about the process behind finding a Grand Prix horse. Supplier to the British team One of the most famous horses that found its way to Grand Prix through Gertjan is the legendary Valegro (Negro x Maifleur). “Over the past 16 years, many Dutch horses have competed in the UK and for the British team, including quite a few from our stud. Valegro also came to us as a foal. As a young stallion he was not approved. When he was three, Carl Hester visited our yard looking for a young horse. Valegro went with him to England, but was later sent back because his stables were full. Carl asked us to train him and sell him on his behalf. As time went on, we noticed he kept improving, and when he was almost sold, I decided to call Carl. I advised him to keep the horse and continue with him, because I saw so much potential. Fortunately, he took that advice, which resulted in four Olympic gold medals and the number one ranking in the world for that horse,” Gertjan says. “We complement each other perfectly” The selectors behind Dutch Dressage Traders are all experts in their field: Rom Vermunt, Jeroen Witte, Marcel van Manen, Diederik van Silfhout, Jorg van Os, Peter Wetzelaer, Sjoerd van Leeuwen, Sjaak van der Lei and Gertjan van Olst. “The idea for Dutch Dressage Traders came up last year during the stallion inspection, at the first viewing in Ermelo, if I remember correctly. The plan is to organise this auction four times a year. Sometimes one colleague will contribute more horses than another. That variation is exactly what makes it strong: we complement each other, and the collection, very well. In my opinion, that makes this auction quite unique.” Always with Grand Prix in mind The market for dressage horses is at a high level, and Dutch Dressage Traders aims to play a prominent role within it. “We focus on a broad audience, from young horses to fully trained dressage horses. Our goal is to offer different levels in every collection.” Quality is key within the DDT collection: “We look at correctness, health, character and rideability. Those are the most important criteria for us. We are searching for complete horses, real eye-catchers. The full picture has to be right, from mindset and health to movement. And when I select a horse, I always have the highest level, Grand Prix, in the back of my mind,” says the stallion owner from Den Hout. Auction closes Thursday evening Bidding on the very first collection is in full swing. The auction will close on Thursday evening, April 2, from 20:00 via www.ddt.auction. For questions about the auction, please contact Sjaak van der Lei via +31 6 12 38 87 06. Collection Photo: Hippo Foto Media