Iris Hakvoort had her strategy for the jump-off all planned out. Aboard the spectacular Stargos VDL she soared to the win in the M-class of the Blom Stallion Competition. 

The M-class featured a competitive entry list of 18 combinations, 13 of which remained clear in the course designed by Louis Konickx. Six repeated that feat in the jump-off at 1.20m height. 

Strong start

After a clear ride at blistering speed, the athletic, super careful and eager KWPN-approved stallion Stargos VDL (Stakkato Gold out of Estella sport-spr by Conthargos, bred by W. Winkeler) of VDL Stud seemed sure of the victory with his rider Iris Hakvoort. It was the Vannan-son Mees vd Watermolen (out of Holinda ster by Carambole, of breeder Jan Greve) that slotted into second place, showing great quality with his new rider Mart IJland. The rider of Stargos VDL enthuses: “I have been riding him for six months now and right from the start he gave me a fantastic feeling. He has such an incredible mindset, is naturally quick and breezes through the work. Stargos is so cooperative so I knew we could go for a top placement here. Wonderful it all worked out!”, tells Iris about her winning ride. “Last summer we placed fifth in the Blom Cup and then we competed at the WC in Lanaken. I am so happy with him!” The third position was claimed by another KWPN-approved stallion that also finished double clear: the striking Mindset ES (Aganix du Seigeneur out of Hosanne ES keur sport-spr pref by Kannan, bred and owned by Egbert Schep) once again showed off his unlimited scope. Jarno van Erp is therefore off to a strong start to the winter season, after the pair concluded the summer with the bronze medal at the WC of Lanaken. 

Photo Stargos VDL – Jacky van Tartwijk