Mares, the essence of a breeding program !!
4 Feb 2024
Mares in crossbreeding....
Mares are known to have a great influence on their the ofspring. It is often said that their stamp is actually 60% , outweighing the stallion. Using top Iberian mares in warmblood crossbreeding programs is therefor vital! Iberian breeds are known for specific characteristics that can enhance warmblood attributes, but they could ofcourse also limit the quality of the ofspring. Therefor we at Stoeterij de Hoge Ginkel, pay enourmous attention to 1. **Temperament:** Our Iberian mares possess a proven and tested calm and intelligent temperament. Introducing these traits into warmblood lines can result in horses that are not only athletic but also trainable and adaptable. 2. **Classic Dressage Ability:** Iberian horses are renowned for their excellence in classical dressage. Utilizing top Iberian mares that stem from Grand Prix Iberian sires, can enhance the dressage potential of warmblood offspring, bringing collection, and precision to their movements. 3. **Versatility:** Iberian breeds are versatile and perform in various equestrian disciplines. Incorporating these versatile traits can re-introduce some 'all-roundness' in warmbloods'. The crossbreds can probably participate in disciplines such as dressage, show jumping, and even eventing. However, Iberian mares can ofcourse also degrade or harm the strengths and goals of a warmblood breeding program. It is therefor crucial to only use proven quality Iberian bloodlines and have the mares assesed by critical warmblood breeding judges. We asked the Oldenburger Verband to come and judge and score all our Iberian mares, on their suitability as crossbreed mares, as if they were warmbloods.
All our Iberian mares accepted in Oldenburger's Verband main studbook!!
After a day of thoughtfull inspections the judges of the Oldenburger Verband accepted all 5 of our mares into their Main Studbook!! Which means that they are actually Oldenburger mares and their offspring out of any warmblood stallion, wil be accpeted as Oldenburger foals and have an Oldenburger passport. That was a festive day!! In our breeding program we were already focussing on German bloodlines, because of their level headed mindedness. We will mostly use German stallions from now on.
But..... the proof of the pudding is in the eating.....
To Wrap Up
In buying horses, people tend to focus on the stallions in the pedigre. Which is logic as they are more well known. But if you have some time, look at the mare too. It could give you some very valuable information!
