In the Ratina Z Arena of Zangersheide, 66 combinations participated to this international “grand prix” for approved stallions (Tabel A, art. 238.2.2). The first round (length : 480m with 12 obstacles) was quite difficult. Besides, the list of participants was of an extremely high level. Finally, only 4 combinations succeeded in running this highly selective course without any fault : Andreas Kreuzer (GER) WITH Jumex Sport Atlantis (BWP – Quickfeuer van Koekshof & President), Rik Hemeryck (BEL) with Papillon Z (Zang – Perhaps & Cassini I), Gerben Morsink (NED) with Carthino Z (Zang – Carthago Z & Amor) and finally Brecht Bille (BEL) with Hunter’s Scendix (Hann – Stakkato & Dinar). Combinations as Jur Vrieling (NED) with Wittinger, Philippe Le Jeune (BEL) with Querlybet Hero Stx, Yves Vanderhasselt (BEL) with Pommeaus de Heup, Rene Tebbel (GER) with Light On, the local Judy-Ann Melchior with the famous stallion Crown Z or Daniel Deusser (GER) with Untouchable 27 were eliminated in this competition. Especially fence 12 (A and B) seemed extremely dangerous for many combinations.

 

The start of Andreas Kreuzer in the jump-off (length : 260 m and 45”) was brilliant. He finished clear in a fabulous time of 36”85. Rik Hemeryck with Papillon Z seemed to beat the time of Kreuzer, but he failed on the last obstacle (36”64 and 4 penalties). And then, there was the moment of Brecht Bille with Hunter’s Scendix : confident and ultra concentrated, this combination finished in a fantastic time of 35”77. Worldclass !!!!!!! The final decision layed in the hands of Gerben Morsink and Carthino Z. This combination started as a whirlwind, seemed to beat the top-time of Brecht Bille, but finally finished fourth with 8 penalties.

 

As Mrs. Judy-Ann Mechior says : “The Sires of the World has grown into a real classic. This exclusive stallion competition is much appreciated by many, riders and breeders. Stallions nowadays have to feature in the sport, the ‘Sires’ offers an excellent platform for this purpose.”

 

The fabulous performance of Brecht Bille with Hunter’s Scendix during this last weekend surely guarantees them an international career.