On the first selection day (Thursday, January 14), the selection committee decided that all candidates were allowed to continue the selection procedure on the second day, i.e. all stallions were given the opportunity to show their ability in loose jumping or free movement. A few candidates dropped out after that test.
Friday night, during the BWP Stallion Gala Presentation, the BWP championships for 5-, 6-, 7- and 8-year old jumping stallions were alternated with the honouring of two new BWP ambassadors – Nabab de Rêve and Flamenco de Semilly – and of the new elite stallions United, Breemeersen Adorado, Vinesse, Action Breaker and Bufero van ’t Panishof.
The BWP jumping stallion championships attract each year a great number of visitors. The titlte of 5-year old BWP champion went to Freestyle (Querlybet Hero x Quidam de Revel), ridden by Kurt De Clercq. In the age category of 6 years, only two stallions got a clear round in the jump-off : Echo van ’t Spieveld (Heartbreaker x Capital) was the fastest under the saddle of Niels Bruynseels. The competition for 7- and 8-year old stallions gave rise to much excitement : Vincent Lambrecht on Diabeau (Clinton x Skippy II) took many risks, yet remained clear and no other combination was able to beat them.
After the last inspection on Saturday, January 16, 38 candidates survived the various selection tests; they will be invited to participate in the third phase, which is due to take place from 10 to 13 March in “De Warre” in Neeroeteren. Hermes de Mariposa (catalogue nr. 10) was crowned champion of the 3-year old BWP registered candidates for approval. Hamilton van de Mispelaere (catalogue nr. 50) became vice-champion.
The BWP Premium Stallion Auction can be regarded as a success.
The first stallion offered for sale got the highest auction bid : 34.000 euro. This approved stallion was bought by Messrs. Luc Tilleman, Koen De Waele and Lieven De Vos. Twelf stallins were offered for sale. The average selling prize was 18.500 euro.