First Round Viewing

The stallion selection and inventory of high-quality, (almost) three-year-old stallions consists of several inspections. The first round viewing takes place at the KWPN Centre in Ermelo and marks the start of the selection process.

During this inspection, the stallions are evaluated by the stallion selection committee, which consists of experts in sport and breeding. The assessment focuses, among other things, on conformation and the presence of visibly observable, potentially hereditary defects or abnormalities. In addition, it is assessed whether the stallion possesses a correct and functional conformation.

Each stallion is then presented in hand at the walk and trot on a hard surface. On this surface, deviations in limb conformation and movement are more clearly visible. Stallions that show sufficient potential based on this evaluation are referred to the second round viewing.

For dressage stallions, free movement is part of the first inspection. The stallions are shown in trot and canter in the arena, an enclosed space with rounded short sides that allows for optimal presentation. KWPN assistants ensure that the stallion changes gait and direction on the instructions of the stallion selection committee. The assessment focuses on posture, scope, technique, power, rhythm, and balance, both on straight lines and in turns. In addition, attention is paid to the use of the body in trot and canter and the ease with which the stallion can change leads when changing direction in canter. The stallion’s attitude is also of great importance. At the end of the presentation, the walk and trot are reassessed in hand. For dressage stallions, the walk is an essential basic gait, with strong emphasis on purity, scope, and suppleness.

Jumping stallions are evaluated during free movement and free jumping in the arena. Natural jumping ability is of great importance. Jumping also provides the stallion selection committee with valuable information about attitude and use of the body. In the arena, three obstacles are set up along the long side: two low verticals and a third obstacle that is gradually built up from a vertical to an oxer. The stallion is calmly guided over the fences several times to provide a clear impression of reflexes, technique, carefulness, and scope. The canter is also evaluated, with attention to posture, balance, and the ability to change leads easily. At the end of the presentation, the walk and trot are again assessed in hand.

Harness horse stallions are presented in hand only during the first inspection. The assessment mainly focuses on the trot. Particular attention is paid to suspension, a foreleg that reaches well forward with high action, and a powerful, well-engaged hind leg. Ideally, this movement is supported by a proud posture and a long, well-shaped, and vertically positioned neck.