The KWPN-approved stallion Merlot VDL (by Bordeaux) and rider Femke de Laat made a convincing debut in the ZZ-Zwaar at the Subtop competition in Nisse yesterday. Scoring almost 66%, they won their first competition in this class straight away.
Merlot VDL previously made a name for himself through his champion title in the performance test and a successful stallion career. And also with the victory in the final of the KWPN Stallion Competition class Z/ZZ in early 2024.
De Laat praises Merlot VDL as a complete horse with no real weak points. Especially the trot parts stand out, as well as his ability in the pirouettes and stretching. ‘He is willing to work, likes to think along - sometimes even a little too much - but by now the series are also well confirmed.’
For now, the combination is focusing on gaining more experience in the ZZ-Zwaar. A qualification for the NK Dressage is not a short-term goal. "He is still a bit inexperienced for that. I would rather build him up slowly and only take him to the Small Tour when he is really ready," said De Laat, who is looking forward to the upcoming competitions.
Merlot is bred by Fam. Klinkhamer from Sleen.
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