This week we looked into the database for the EPTM (Mare Performance Test) jumper mares. In 2019, the Comme IL Faut daughter La Selien W was the best EPTM mare with 93.5 points. Which mare will win the title this time and was the best in 2020 or in the first quarter of 2021?

The Mare Performance Test is a popular ability test, which is often used by various breeders and owners. Through the Mare Performance Test, you gain insight into a mare's natural talent for the dressage or jumping sport. It is also possible to have the mare saddle broken at the KWPN Center two weeks prior to the regular test. There have been six Mare Performance Test exams in 2020 and two exams in the first quarter of 2021. In total, 77 jumper mares passed in 2020 and in the first quarter of 2021. The average total score of the successful jumper mares in this period was 79 points. Among the jumper mares Carrera VDL is the most frequently mentioned sire with six successful EPTM mares, followed by Etoulon VDL with five mares.

Top score
The Zirocco Blue VDL daughter Kyrelena VDL, bred by VDL Stud, received a top score of 86.5 points. The jury spoke highly of this mare: "This mare was saddle broken at the KWPN Center and has developed very positively. Kyrelena VDL has a lot of natural talent and is very easy to work with. She jumps with a lot of quality and her canter has a lot of power and balance. Kyrelena VDL jumps with a very good front leg technique and opens her hind leg also very well.

85 and above
Last year and the first quarter of this year many quality mares were tested in the Mare Performance Test. Besides the outstanding mare that scored 86.5 points, there are also six jumper mares that achieved 85 points or higher. 85.5 points were given to the jumper mare Lady Queen M (by Grandorado TN), bred by H.G.J. Meijer. This mare got five nines for reflexes and technique. Inspector Marcel Beukers said afterwards: "This mare canters with good balance and has always shown a lot of quality in jumping. She is very careful, jumps with a lot of power and finishes the jump well every time. She jumps well with her withers up, uses her body well and shows a lot of athletic ability. She is also quick and careful." The by B.J. Huirne bred Carrera VDL daughter Miletto scored a total of 85 points, including no less than seven nines. The Singular La Silla daughter Lindesnes, also scored 85.The mare bred by Gebr. Bosch and Team Nijhof received also seven nines.

Obtaining the Elite predicate
In just a few weeks, it is possible for the young 'green' mare that is submitted for the Mare Performance Test to go home with both the Mare Performance Test and Elite predicate. After the Mare Performance Test examination, it is possible to participate in the studbook inspection and the Central Inspection. Last year, 36 jumper mares became elite. In order to become elite after passing the Mare Performance Test, the mare must be in possession of the D-OC or PROK predicate. If not, the mare is promoted to Keur. Last year, 12 jumper mares were awarded the Keur predicate.

Are you expecting a foal soon? Or are you planning to breed in the future? We have put together useful tips, the most frequently asked questions and information about breeding and registering your foal(s). We now also offer a discount on applying for the D-OC certificate for your foal. Would you like to enjoy the foals of other breeders or show your own foal(s) to fellow breeders? Then become a member of the special Facebook group for KWPN Foals!

Photo Kyrelena VDL: Donné Hegger