Throughout the year, several EPTM-tests are offered at the KWPN. This performance test is designed to provide insight into the natural ability of a mare for dressage or show jumping. There are still a few spots available for both the five- and seven-week EPTM-tests taking place in August and September. The seven-week test includes starting the mare under saddle.

The EPTM (Eigen Prestatie Toets Merries), also known as the mare test, is intended to assess a mare's natural talent for dressage or show jumping. The EPTM-test, including starting the mare under saddle, takes seven weeks. The training and daily care are in the hands of professional trainers, supported by a team of riders and grooms. Upon arrival, the mares participating in one of the EPTM-tests are assessed by the jury and undergo a clinical examination to determine whether they are healthy, suitable for testing, and pose no health risk to other horses.

Curious about how the EPTM-test in Ermelo works?
You can watch the video ‘Hoe werkt de EPTM-test in Ermelo?’ on KWPN.tv. This video shows how the mares are prepared for the EPTM-test and how the test is conducted. Curious about the video? Watch it here.

Predicates
The EPTM-test plays an important role in advancing predicate levels. After completing the test, a mare can be presented for studbook registration and may qualify for the ster predicate, and possibly keur/elite. Mares that have previously been registered in the studbook can be presented for a higher predicate after completing the EPTM-test.

Read more about the predicates

Participation
Mares must be at least 35 months old to participate in the EPTM-test. In addition to a correct influenza vaccination, the horses must also be vaccinated against rhinopneumonitis. Horses participating in KWPN events or staying at the KWPN Centre for more than seven days must be properly vaccinated against influenza. The regulations have recently changed: for horses born on or after January 1, 2022, the primary influenza vaccination must consist of three doses. A rhinopneumonitis vaccination consists of a primary and a booster vaccination. The EPTM-tests are held several times a year at the KWPN Centre in Ermelo. To participate in the EPTM-tests, it is important that you are aware of all guidelines and rules concerning the performance test.

Would you like more information or do you have questions about the EPTM? Please contact Angelique van Nieuwenhuizen via info@kwpn.nl or +31 (0)341-255 544.

Register for EPTM (mare test with starting under saddle) – June 23 to August 8, 2025
Register for EPTM (mare test) – July 8 to August 8, 2025

Register for EPTM (mare test with starting under saddle) – August 11 to September 26, 2025
Register for EPTM (mare test) – August 25 to September 26, 2025

Source: KWPN