The exciting young ISF stallion Lowlands finished in fourth place at the prestigious Pavo Cup earlier this month. He earned an 89.4 in the final five-year-old test, receiving a 9.5 on harmony.
“I was really happy,” said his rider Dinja van Liere. “He gave a lot of energy and was very focused on me. It was a wow feeling!” In addition to the 9.5, Lowlands received 9.0s on the walk and overall impression, an 8.7 on the canter and an 8.5 on the trot. Van Liere continued, “The highlights were the simple changes, but he didn’t make any mistakes, so actually the whole test was a highlight!”
Lowlands will remain in the Netherlands as he continues his training with van Liere. “He’s getting stronger and more muscular,” she said. “He’s smart and willing to work, and of course, his looks and gaits are incredible!”
Lowlands is by Millennium and out of the Elite States Premium mare La Donna S. Lowlands’ first foals arrived this year.
Lowlands’ barn mate, Kaiman, also had an impressive showing at the Pavo Cup. The beautiful black stallion received an 83.8 in the six-year-old preliminary test, including an 8.4 for the canter, 8.2 for the trot and overall impression, an 8.1 for the walk and a 7.9 for harmony.
Van Liere explained that one of Kaiman’s greatest gifts is his rideability. “He is so sweet and easygoing. He is very light in the hand and very steady. I love his flying changes!” Kaiman’s superb temperament carries over to the barn. “He is the sweetest boy in the stable and he loves to cuddle all day,” she said.
Kaiman is by Dark Pleasure and out of the Elite/Preferent mare Franciska. Kaiman’s first foal crop were born in the Netherlands this year.
The Pavo Cup serves as the prestigious KWPN National Championship for Young Dressage Horses. To reach the final, a horse must receive a high-ranking score from one of the five selection trials. The event draws the Netherlands’ most promising dressage stars to Ermelo, with 145 horses competing at this year’s final.
