By Eva-Maria Broomer / AES
Photography: Horsepower Creative

On August 25, AES Netherlands carried out another highly successful foal show and mare grading event that was well supported with strong entries from a great range of horses showcasing the diversity of the studbook and its focus on performance breeding.

Participation in the foal inspection is free of charge, there was a prize fund of €1,000 to the highest scorers, and the entries were assessed by an expert jury that included Robbert Ehrens and Bert van den Oetelaar. The team was joined by Dr Eva-Maria Broomer from the UK who led the mare gradings which took place alongside the foal inspections. In addition to being evaluated for frame, walk, trot, and canter, mares were also assessed on hard ground for correctness and conformation. Every mare received a full linear profile, numerical marks, and detailed verbal feedback designed to advise and support the breeders.
The jury looked at each foal in the ring, assessments based on conformation and movement. After each presentation verbal feedback was given alongside the numerical marks to explain the jury’s decision. The foal inspection is also a great opportunity for breeders to compare their foal alongside others, and to see the offspring from a range of sires to help them with future breeding decisions. The inspection was open to foals from jumping, dressage and eventing, and also included a class for sports ponies. Breeders were also able to have their foal sketched and chipped (with a thermochip) after the assessment.
The day saw many lovely foals with a total of 57 entries. From these, the top scorers were invited back into a walk ring to identify the final winners... To read the complete article you need to be a subscriber
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