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Daniel Deusser and Scuderia 1918 Tobago Z Win the Léon Melchior Open Sires of the World, Powered by Zangersheide
Loose Jumping and Stallion Competitions Unite Breeding Fans at the Nekkerhal
On the second day of Jumping Mechelen, breeders from all corners of Belgium and beyond flocked to the Nekkerhal as they do every year. With three stallion competitions and a spectacular final of loose jumping for 2-year-old talents, sponsor Zangersheide offered an exciting and engaging program. The day delivered not only thrilling action but also some remarkable winners.
The Stars of the Day, From Young to Old
Camille Du Maillet Z (Chacco Blue x Berlin | Zang | Thirion/Elevage Du Maillet) impressed the jury the most in the loose jumping competition. The stunning bay mare with exceptional technique achieved a total score of 91 points.
In the 6-year-old stallions’ competition, Saladin S. (Ducati Vh Schuttershof x Cash | BWP | Hens – Verelst) emerged victorious. His rider, Gilles Thomas, navigated the jump-off at lightning speed, edging out Harrie Smolders with Ecclestone Z (Zang) and Wim Vinckx with Vivace vd Kattevennen Z (Zang).
Among the 7-year-old stallions, Gin Flip de Muze Z (Gino H x Elvis Ter Putte | BWP | Desmedt – De Backer), ridden by Thibeau Spits, claimed the top spot. Dacantos Boy Z (Dacantos x Balous Bellini | Westf), piloted by Christian Ahlmann, and Gancio van’t Smisveld Z (Gino H x Nabab De Rêve | Zang), ridden by Jens Vandenberk, also delivered faultless rounds in the jump-off, securing second and third places respectively.
Established Stallions Compete in the Léon Melchior Open Sires of the World
Of all the breeding events at Vlaanderens Kerstjumping, the Léon Melchior Sires of the World undoubtedly stands out as the main attraction. This CSIW5* competition brought together 33 impressive stallions aged 8 years and older. The victory went to a living legend: Scuderia 1918 Tobago Z (Otangelo x Mr Blue | Zang), the Zangersheide stallion who has claimed Grand Prix titles worldwide with his rider, Daniel Deusser.
Breeder Jonas Bellemans was present: “What an incredible moment. Seven year ago, he also won this competition here, something I’ll never forget. I used to ride Tobago myself, but when he turned 8, he moved to Stephex Stables, and Daniel took over. Now at 16, he still leaves an unforgettable impression. I’m immensely proud to see him perform like this.”
For Marine Renaudet, Tobago’s groom, the stallion also holds a special place: “I’ve been working for Daniel for several years now and have gotten to know Tobago very well. At home, he loves peace and quiet, but at competitions, he equally enjoys everything happening around him in the stables.”
Daniel Deusser confirmed: “At home, he’s very calm, even a little lazy. But in competition, he gives it his all—and he’s been doing that for 10 years now. He’ll soon turn 17, but he still feels exactly the same as in the beginning.”
” Selecting the best moment from their decade-long partnership is nearly impossible for Daniel: “Our victory in the FEI Jumping World Cup in Bordeaux was start of our international career, so it’s definitely one of my favorite moments. But our second place in Aachen is equally unforgettable.”
Daniel is also competing at the 5* level with a son of Scuderia 1918 Tobago Z: “Otello De Guldenboom has a completely different look than Tobago, but he moves just as spectacularly and feels very similar during competitions. Over the past few months, he has delivered strong performances in major classes, and I’m very curious to see what he’ll show this week.”
