The highlight of the young horse competition scene in Germany is undoubtedly the Bundeschampionate held in Warendorf, just an hour’s drive from here.
Always a fascinating show to visit as a breeder, as not only can you see the combination of bloodlines that has produced the best young prospects in Germany, but also young breeding stallions that are now proving themselves in competition.
To be able to see their trainability and reactions to such a busy show, to see first-hand how they move and carry themselves is an invaluable tool when making breeding selections in future years.
Stallions from the 2011 Schockemohle breeding roster had a very successful show, with Toulouse and Cornet’s Balou winning their age categories in the show jumping, and Furstenball showing himself to perfection to win the 5yo dressage section.
This is a young stallion really on the up as his first foal crops have been very well received and now he has demonstrated his ability under saddle. His sire Furst Heinrich (also sire of Farouche) was a very popular breeding stallion and so far Furstenball seems to be one of his best sons, and with his super walk and free movement will no doubt be even more popular next season. In Oldenburg he will be a super outcross for the Sandro Hit line mares and its going to be very exciting to watch his development.
Cornet’s Balou is another interesting young stallion combining two of my favourite jumping bloodlines. Although they have a reputation as professionals’ rides, Cornet Obolensky stock always catch my eye with their attractive type and active movement. Balou Du Rouet is another favourite of mine and having worked with a lot of his offspring, I am a huge fan. So to combine his motherline with Cornet Obolensky makes a very exciting pedigree, and Cornet’s Balou himself seems to bring super technique and a really straightforward temperament to the table. His modern type should make him quite a popular choice with UK breeders breeding for both jumping and eventing spheres.
Back to the Volatis Stud stock, and we have been thrilled with the news that Volatis Diva (pictured, as a foal) was overall reserve supreme at the CHAPS Championships this month, at the age of only four. Orders have been sent home to buy copies of this week’s Horse & Hound, as for a small stud like ourselves it’s wonderful to get your youngsters into the right hands and see them shine.
