Astek Stud Proud Breeders Of Another National Young Dressage Horse Champion
• March 2012
The talented young mare Astek Ghisella (by Gym Bello x Belcam Angelica - Aachen - Argentinius) so capably produced and ridden by Janelle Sangster-Ward, has recently taken out the Elite Equine National Young Dressage Horse Champion Of Champions title at the Bates NZ National Dressage Championships held at Manfield, March 1st - 4th 2012. Ghisella won the 5 year old division and went forward against the winning 4 and 6 year olds to find the overall young dressage horse champion. Test rider Jeremy Steinberg (USA) praised Ghisella for her exciting potential and trainability for higher level work and gave her 18/20 for rideability, with co-judges Alison King (Hong Kong) and Susan Hoevenaars (Australia) giving her the top score of 74.69%.
This title follows along from a super consistent 2011/12 season for Ghisella and Janelle who have also won the South Island Young Dressage Horse title and were Level 2 Champions at Blenheim, Nelson and Christchurch!
This is the second time one of our Astek progeny has won this prestigious National title - Astek Gymnast (now 7 years old and from the first select crop of Gym Bello progeny) is currently very competitive at Level 4 with owner Victoria Wall, also won the National Young Dressage Horse title as a 5 year old in 2010.
Ghisella was also the Level 2 Reserve Champion behind Kallista Field and Snapshot FE. Of note in the Level 2 Championship at the Bates National Champs, Gym Bello progeny also finished 4th (Georgio with Jacqui Thompson) and 7th (Genero with Megan Robinson) - great results for these young horses at our top dressage show!

Gym Bello Progeny All Winning At Major Dressage Championships Throughout NZ
• 7th February 2012
"Georgio", 5yo bay gelding by Gym Bello, ridden by Jacqui Thompson, has continued his successful season by recently winning the Wairarapa Level 2 Championship held 28th - 29th January 2012, beating a very strong field of locally bred and imported warmblood horses and top riders.
"Astek Gymnast", 7yo brown gelding by Gym Bello, ridden by Victoria Wall, has won the Auckland Manakau Festival Of Dressage Level 4 Championship for 2012, winning 3 out of 4 tests with scores of over 74% and judges comments including "clear quality, super balance and frame" and "very consistent test with expression and clear cadence". Great results.

"Georgio" by Gym Bello with Jacqui Thompson wins Wairarapa Level 2 Dressage Champion 2012.

"Astek Gymnast" by Gym Bello with Victoria Wall wins Auckland Manakau Level 4 Dressage Champion 2012.

"Astek Glentui", 5yo bay mare by Gym Bello, ridden by Alannah Beuth, has won the Auckland Manakau Dressage Champs 2012 Young Rider Level 1 Hack Champion. This success comes after only purchasing the mare from Astek Stud just over 2 months ago! A real credit to this young mare's temperament to successfully perform so quickly under a new rider and also very pleasing for us here at Astek to see one of our Astek produced horse that was sold ready to compete, go out and win already.
"Astek Ghisella", dark brown 5yo mare by Gym Bello, has been crowned the Elite Equine Young Dressage Horse Champion at the South Island Dressage Championships held over Waitangi weekend in February in Christchurch. Ghisella convincingly won the 5yo age group section, with Astek Gazeni, the 6yo gelding by Gym Bello ridden by Kery Hume, winning the 6yo section and then being crowned Reserve Champion behind Ghisella after the ride off. Both horses demonstrated real quality, movement and trainability, with Ghisella once again capturing the audience and stealing the show to add to her already impressive collection of championships this season.
A country-wide collection of top performances one would have to say!

"Astek Glentui" by Gym Bello with Alannah Beuth proud winners of the Young Rider Level 1 Dressage Championship at Auckland Manakau Festival of Dressage 2012.

"Astek Gazeni" (left) with Kerry Hume receive their Reserve Champion ribbons while Astek Ghisella (right) and Janelle Sangster-Ward accept their Overall Champion Sash for Elite Equine Young Dressage Horse Champion 2012, at the South Island Dressage Championships 2012.

 

"Vancouver" By Voltaire II Places Against Top International Competition In Florida Grand Prix • 22nd January 2012
The very talented, USA exported gelding Vancouver by Voltaire II has recently placed 3rd with his 18 year old rider Katherine Dinan in the Wellington Equestrian Realty Grand Prix, CSI 2* during the Winter Equestrian Festival in Florida.
The big indoor track, built by Belgium course designer Luc Mussette, attracted 50 entries, including top international riders Eric Lamaze, Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, Rodrigo Pessoa, Ian Miller, Mario Deslauriers and Ashley Bond to name just a few. Only 12 combinations went clear through to the jump-off where Vancouver and Katherine were last to go. They were quick and clean in 41.20 seconds to put them in third place, behind the winner Scott Brash on Intertoy Z and Olympic gold medalist Eric Lamaze in second on Derly Chin de Muze.
Said Katherine... "I am lucky to have Vancouver who is perfect. He is a brave soul and he will try anything for me, so that made me feel a lot of confidence going into these big classes under the lights."
Click here to read full press release on the Equestrian Sports website.
Click here to view full list of final class results.

"Astek Gianni" Continues To Catch The Judges Eye In Showhunter • 22nd January 2012 Our daughter Diana and her beautiful mare Astek Gianni (by Gym Bello x TB mare Stately Affair) have been having a great third season of competition together with consistent wins and placings in both Amateur and Open classes at all of their showhunter competition outings to date in the North Island. Gianni's excellent jumping technique, quality movement, presence and expression always gain very favourable comments from the judges in this increasingly popular sport which requires both showmanship, accuracy and ring-craft combined with smart jumping ability. Despite having only attended 4 shows so far this season, Gianni is currently in 5th place overall on the Waitemata Summer Series Leaderboard and 4th= in the Tara Groenstein Memorial Trophy leaderboard.

Astek Gianni and Diana Jamieson on their way to a winning round at Waitemata 3* SJ & SH competition, January 2012

Gym Bello's Progeny Dominant At Canterbury Dressage Champs
• 15th December 2011
Astek Stud was very well represented at the recent Canterbury Dressage Championships held at McLeans Island, December 3rd and 4th 2011.

In the hotly contested Level 1 classes, the lovely moving mare "RV Godiva", a 5 year old by Gym Bello (out of RV Jelina by Falknesee, owned by Leanne Andrews) had a super consistent show with rider Anna Gale, seeing them win and place including 1st place in the Level 1 Championship with a score of over 73%. RV Godiva was placed 3rd overall in th final Level 1 results.

In the very large Level 2 classes, the beautiful 5 year old mare "Astek Ghisella" (by Gym Bello x Belcam Angelica) consistently scored in the high 60's and low 70's in all 4 of her tests with owner and rider Janelle Sangster-Ward and, against 49 other Level 2 horses, and was ultimately crowned the 2011 Level 2 Champion.

Ghisella was also a member of the winning area team competing for the Marlborough region. This championship comes on a string of superb performances for Janelle and Ghisella throughout the 2011 season which has seen them also win Marlborough Level 2 Champion alongside winning both the summer and winter series championships, winning both Marlborough and Nelson Young Dressage Horse Champion, and they won all of their level 2 classes at the Nelson Qualifiers. Ghisella is currently in 2nd place in the SI Level 2 Challenge and the Zilco Musical Qualifiers (behind Genero!, below).

On their way to Winning Champion Level 2 2011 are Astek Ghisella with Janelle Sangster-Ward

Reseve Champion for Level 2 was none other than another one of Gym Bello's offspring, the bay gelding "Genero", ridden by Megan Robinson. This pair are also having a super season and were again extremely consistent putting in excellent performances throughout the Canterbury competition including winning one class with over 74%. Genero is currently leading the South Island Level 2 Challenge Accumulator and Zilco Level 2 Musical Accumulator.

The eyecatching 6yo gelding "Astek Graffiti" (by Gym Bello x TB mare Folk Dancer) also competed with success for owner Nicki Page, placing in his Level 2 classes and scoring well amongst strong competition.
The very handsome Holsteiner X gelding "S.E Repecharge" (by Ramirez x Belle) was also in attendance at the show, winning and placing in Level 2 classes with his well known local farrier rider Brent Jury.

Level 3 saw Gym Bello progeny to the fore again, with "Astek Gazeni", the magnificent 6 year old gelding (by Gym Bello x TB mare Appointment) putting on some excellent performances with our stud rider Kerry Hume, resulting in him winning Reserve Champion Level 3 2011.
Gazeni was also recently announced the winner of the overall Marlborough Dressage Level 3 Summer Series, winning a lovely trophy!
Gazeni is currently 2nd overallk in the both SI Level 3 Challenge Accumulator and the Level 3 Zilco Musical Accumulator. In his first season of straight dressage competition, Astek Gazeni is continuing to go from strength to strength.

And also of special interest, our stallion Gym Bello's own full brother "Kinnordy Gallium" (imported and originally competed by Julie Brougham, now owned and ridden by Jenny Scotter) won two tests and placed in the Level 5 classes with very good percentages. They were very unlucky to miss out on Champion or Reserve showing how tight the competition was, with them finishing in 3rd overall in the Level 5 division.

More Classy Babies Arrive At The Stud • 14th December 2011
Two more classy foals have been born for another two colts!
Kinnordy Ghislaine (Hanoverian by Gymnastik Star) delived a very athletic bay colt by Ramirez that we have named "Astek Riccardo". A very attractive, bouncy fellow with a lovely white blaze and socks, he is a full brother to the very promising fillies Rhapsody and Rapture.
Belcam Aarcadia (aka Bella, Hanoverian mare by Aachen) has had a delighful chestnut colt by Dutch Warmblood sire Voltaire II. Very good bloodlines in this refined, elegant foal, combining Argentinius with Voltaire for a powerful athletic mix. He looks like a real eventing type this one.

"Astek Riccardo", Holsteiner Colt by Ramirez x Kinnordy Ghislaine (by Gymnastik Star). Photo at a few hours old.

"Astek Vortex", Colt by Voltaire II x Belcam Aarcadia (by Aachen - Argentinius). Photo at 3 days old.

Two More Super Foals Arrive At Astek • 5th December 2011
We've had a rather busy few nights lately with the foaling alarms and stable TV helping us monitor the mares who are close to foaling. Two more super foals have now arrived, a very upstanding and handsome brown colt with real presence by Ramirez out of imported mare Cabernet (by Caberet - Cordeur, from the famous Cor de la Bryere line), and a beautifully marked and delightful natured bay colt by Gym Bello out of one of our favourite mares, the fantastic producer Belcam Angelica (by Aachen - Argentinius). Both boys are excellent examples of their bloodlines and even things up again with 2 fillies and 2 colts being born at Astek so far this season!
They are very pleased to be able to move around and stretch their long legs skipping around the paddock. We were especially rapt for Angelica to have a healthy foal again this year after very sadly losing her foal last season despite our best efforts to save him.
Look forward to seeing both of these very classy colts mature over the next few months.

Un-named Holsteiner Colt by Ramirez x Cabernet (by Caberet - Cordeur). Photo at 5 days old.

"Astek Gadzuks", Colt by Gym Bello x Belcam Angelica (by Aachen - Argentinius). Photo at 2 days old.

Eyreleigh Rosnalea Champion Under Saddle & Showhunter Winner • 25th November 2011
Kristy Thomas has been having great success with her beautiful Holsteiner/Irish mare "Eyreleigh Rosnalea" (by Ramirez) recently. She took her to the SI Premier Spring Show (their first show together) where they won Champion Novice and Champion Riding Horse. Following this they entered the Kaiapoi Pony Club show where they won Reserve Champion Saddle Hunter.

Eyreleigh Rosnalea winning Reserve Champion Saddle Hunter with owner Kristy Thomas.

Eyreleigh Rosnalea shows her winning form with Emily Cammock at the Labour Weekend Showjumping Carnival.

Emily Cammock rode Rosnalea in some showhunter classes at the Labour Weekend Showjumping Carnival where they won the 80cm training class, the 90cm Welcome Hunter and the 5 & 6 year old class. The judge was very impressed with Rosnalea and tracked down Emily after the classes finished to tell her what a beautiful horse she thought she was.
Click here to view YouTube footage of Rosnalea competing in showhunter Welcome Hunter followed by 5 & 6 year old class.

Astek Gymnast WINS The Medium Level World Dressage Challenge!!!
• 23rd November 2011

Astek Gymnast and Vic Wall - World Dressage Challenge Winners

Impressive 7 year old gelding "Astek Gymnast" (by Gym Bello x RV Liebschnee) recently competed in the World Dressage Challenge held at Taupo NEC in November. Gymnast, with owner and rider Victoria Wall, won both the qualifiers and were named on the NZ Team. They then put on a super performance to win the Medium level Challenge Final and beat the leading score in the Medium grade Chinese rider. The NZ team won the final and whole World Dressage Challenge by just pipping China who were the leaders until the final NZ leg.
Gymnast and Vic scored 68.9% in the first qualifier, and 66.4% in the second one (despite a minor course error).

Astek Gymnast is from the first small select crop of Gym Bello progeny so is one of his oldest offspring, and certainly doing a brilliant job at flying the flag for Gym Bello's ability to produce highly competitive, talented horses! This win is a real thrill for both Vic and ourselves as breeders.

Follow the links below to read ESNZ articles posted online during the World Dressage Challenge.

- Dressage Rides High winning the FEI World Dressage Challenge

- Mighty River Power Medium FEI World Dressage Challenge

- Day 2 Qualifiers

- Round 1 Qualifiers FEI World Dressage Challenge

 

 

Another One Of Gym Bello's Offspring Claims A Champion • 23rd November 2011
The classy dark brown mare "RV Georgie Girl", by Gym Bello out of RV Jelina (by Falkensee), recently won Novice Park Hack Champion at Marlborough Show with her new owner Sue Lucas. Georgie won Novice 0-5 wins, Open Gentleman's Type, and placed 3rd in Open Park Hack and 2nd in Open Paced & Mannered.
This lovely moving mare was bred by Wendy Beaven and produced under saddle by Wendy's daughter Kirsten, competing with success in dressage before being sold to Sue in Marlborough. It is great to see them doing so well together already.

Classy Hanoverian Filly Is Born • 21st November 2011 Powerful moving imported mare "Kinnordy Ravenna" (by Riverdance (Rubenstein) out of a Graf Landau mare) has delivered a classy filly by Gym Bello on the 21st November at 10.45pm. Another suprising chestnut coloured filly from this breeding combination but what a classy body she has... and the movement, wow!!!! "Astek Gwhinnie" has a beautiful front end and neck set and alot of personality showing through from early on, with the unusual white marking on her face refelcting her character! A full sister to the outstanding yearling colt Astek Galileo and lovely 2yo filly Astek Gymbella. Ravenna is being a great mum and very proud of her new daughter skipping through the paddocks.

"Astek Gwhinnie" - Hanoverian filly by Gym Bello x Kinnordy Ravenna (Riverdance - Rubenstein) at one week old.

Two fillies by Gym Bello - Astek Gawjuss (left) and Astek Gwhinnie (right)

 

Exceptional First Foal Of 2011 Season Arrives At Astek •  12th November 2011
An exceptional bay Hanoverian filly has been born at Astek, marking the start of our exciting 2011 foal arrivals. By Gym Bello out of our imported mare Fleur Di Mimosa, who is by Flemmingh out of a Weltmeyer mare, this new filly is simply outstanding in all respects - from her beautiful head and upstanding, athletic conformation through to her superb world reknown bloodlines and inquisitive nature, this young lady shows all of the type, movement, scope and promise that we seek to produce in our foals. She is very true to type of Gym Bello's progeny right down to her trademark snip and white socks.
We have named her "Astek Gawjuss" because she is just that!
A half sister to our young stallion prospect "Astek Quatermaster" by Quaterback, it will be very exciting to watch this filly mature and develop. A superb way to start the foaling season!

One week old, "Astek Gawjuss", Hanoverian filly by Gym Bello x Fleur Di Mimosa (Flemmingh / Weltmeyer)

Ramirez Mare Wins World Cup Showjumping Class at Kihikihi 3*•  7th November 2011
The classy bay Holsteiner mare "My Ocean Wave" (by Ramirez x TB mare, owned by the Green family) and rider Lisa Coupe have won a signifigant class on the New Zealand showjumping calandar, claiming 1st place in the exciting World Cup class at the Waikato Showjumping 3 star competition held at Kihikihi on the 6th November 2011.
From a strong field of 15 competitors featuring many previous World Cup winners and our top horses and riders from around the country, Lisa and "Tui" jumped a great first round over the very challenging 1.60m track, taking one rail down and placing them first equal with 6 other combinations on 4 faults. A brilliant and faultless second round saw them jump the only clear round of the class resulting in them winning the class and taking the trophy.
Prior to this win, Lisa and Tui have been having a very good 2011 season competing, with several wins and placings in the 1* Grand Prix series. A fantastic result and a very "in form" combination to watch for sure!

Astek Raphael - Young Horse Show Hunter Championsihp at Northland  •  31st October 2011
Owner Maria Huljich reports that they are very proud of Raphael (by Ramirez), who won the Young Horse Championship at his first registered show hunter competition. "He's also regularly jumping metre classes in show jumping and doing well, currently being ridden by Jaime Campbell, " she reports.
Astek Horses Out and About • 30th October 2011
Labour Weekend was a busy time for Astek horses. On the showjumping side, Astek Galliano, who is currently with Emily Cammock, won the 4yo Showhunter class at McLeans Island. Astek Roxette in the hands of Astek showjuping rider Devon van Til also had her first outing, showing plenty of scope. Kerry Hume with Astek Gazeni made the trip back up to Blenheim for the Marlborough Qualifying Show. Gaz had a great weekend, taking out the  Elementary (Level 3) Championship and unbeaten all weekend. Astek Ghisella with owner Janelle Sangster-Ward had a fantastic weekend also, taking out the Level 2 (Novice) Championship as well as the Young Dressage Horse title. In the North Island Jacqui Thompson's Georgio won the Level 2 Challenge class at the Denis Reichenback Wellington Dressage Champs.
Astek Gazeni - One to Watch • 5th October 2011

The eye-catching and talented 6-yo gelding Astek Gazeni is making his presence felt in the dressage arena. In the hands of Astek Stud dressage rider Kerry Hume, Gazeni is competing at Elementary (Level 3). Gazeni's first outing of the spring season was at Marlborough, where he scored two wins (68.61% and 68.00%), a seoncd and a third placing. This was followed up a week later by winning the Level Three Challenge (3.6) at the SCNO Challenge Qualifying Tournament with a score of 69.167%.

Astek Gazeni schooling 1-9-2011

It's remarkable that Gazeni's dressage career started only six months ago - he was previously in the hands of eventing rider Brent Jury, who can take the credit for the sound basics which have helped Gazeni and Kerry progress quickly.

"AMS Astek Ginsling" Continues Winning Form at Kihikihi International • 21st April 2011
Owned and competed by Stephanie Liefting, "AMS Astek Ginsling" (6yo gelding by Gym Bello x TB mare) has continued his very successful first season eventing by recently winning the Pre-Novice class at Kihikihi International Horse Trial held 8th - 10th April 2011. This eyecatching black gelding shows great athleticism, jumping ability and quality movement, gaining great comments in the dressage which saw him once again win the event by finishing on his dressage score.
A huge numbers of entries were posted for this competition, seeing the Pre-Novice section split into 4 divisions of approx 33 competitors each. Of note, Ginsling posted the highest dressage score of 78.7% across all of the Pre-Novice divisions, over 7% higher than all other entries apart from one, Donna Smith riding Winston SW who scored 76.1% and finished in 2nd place to Ginsling in the same division.
Just prior to this win, Ginsling and Stephanie also placed 2nd in the Training class at Woodhill Sands Horse Trial 26th and 27th March. Our congrats to this pair for more great results!

Ramirez Gelding Crowned Eventing NZ Junior Rider Champion • 13th April 2011 Talented 7 year old bay Holsteiner / TB gelding "Case in Point" (by Ramirez) and Francesca Silver have won the Eventing NZ Junior Rider Championship held at Central Districts 2nd & 3rd of April. This was only their second Novice start and, after very good clear cross-country and showjumping rounds, they finished on their dressage score to win the title and trophy which was a super acheivement. Francesca currently trains with Tinks Pottinger. We are sure to see more of this combination in the near future! Well done team!

"Case In Point" (by Ramirez) and Francesca Silver - NZ Eventing Junior Rider Champions 2011

Gym Bello Gelding Wins Reserve Champion Level 1 Dressage Horse at HOY 2011
Following their recent winning form (see news article further down the page), Jacqui Thompson and her lovely 4 year old Gym Bello gelding "Georgio" went on to compete very consistently throughout their dressage classes at Horse Of The Year show in March to post scores of over 70% in the title classes and finish as Reserve Champions Level 1 Dressage Horse Of The Year. The winner was imported stallion "Donnerubin". There were 48 horses entered in the Level 1 title classes making it the most hotly contested field of all levels.
Reserve Champion is a superb acheivement, especially considering Georgio's young age and that this is still his first competition season! Our congratulations to Jacqui on these amazing results!

"Astek Gianni" Finishes 2010/11 Competition Season In Top Form • 21st March 2011 The very elegant 16.2hh 6yo Hanoverian/TB mare "Astek Gianni", owned and competed by our daughter Diana in the North Island, has finished off her competition season in super form at the Horse Of The Year show in Hastings, held March 15th to 20th, by winning "Reserve Champion Amateur Showhunter Of The Year 2011". Gianni's 2nd placing on Friday in the also hotly contested "Amateur High Points" class saw her beat all but one ("Time'll Tell") of the country's top combinations who were finalists in the year long Amateur Series, and set her up well for the Title class on the Saturday.

Astek Gianni and Diana competing in the Amateur Showhunter Of The Year class, March 2011,

A very strong field of over 40 competitors entered the first round of the "Amateur Showhunter Of The Year" title class, including many previous showhunter title and series winners, with the top 10 going through to the final where they all rode a new course for the judges to compare. Two very smooth and well executed rounds, showcasing Gianni's real show-ring presence, elegance, movement and consistent quality jump, saw them announced in 2nd place as Reserve Champions, much to the delight of Diana, Sue, grandmother Melva and Diana's fiance Greg also all ringside to watch.

Astek Gianni and Diana lining up in 2nd place (second from left) for the 2011 HOY showhunter title class presentation.

The winner of the class, Tracey Parnwell riding Time'll Tell, was a cheered winner, being the horse previously owned by the late Denise Crisp who had won the class in previous years and for whom the class and large trophy are now in honour of. Thankyou to Clearview Estate Winery for their sponsorship of this class.
Click here to view full Horse Of The Year 2011 Showhunter Title class results. (PDF File)

Voltaire II Gelding "Mr Wiggles" Crowned National 4 Year Old Showjumping Champion
• 23rd February 2011
The very attractive 4 year old gelding "Mr Wiggles" by Voltaire II, ridden by Kim Best, jumped brilliantly throughout the 3 day Young Horse Showjumping Championships held at Taupo at the end of January (apologies for this late news posting!), fending off a large class of over 50 competitors to eventually claim the National title, much to Kim's delight. This class covers 3 days of showjumping and this year featured quite technical courses up to 1.10m in height, designed by a guest Australian course builder. Mr Wiggles was also crowned with the 4 Year Old Style prize, awarded to the horse judged to have the best jumping technique and rideability.

All Fine At Astek Following February 22nd Major Earthquake • 23rd February 2011
Thankyou to everyone who has been in contact, this note is just to confirm that all is well here at Astek Stud and our family members all well and safe, we certainly felt the earthquake but didn't lose power or have any damage to buildings or stock. Being approx 30 minutes south of Christchurch city we are well removed from the devestation that has struck the central city and our hearts go out to everybody affected by this tragedy.

"Kinsella Razi" By Ramirez Having Very Successful Showing Season • 4th February 2011
Kinsella Razi, a classy 4 year old bay gelding by Ramirez, bred and owned by Rebecca Rickerby of Christchurch, has been having his first season of competition in the show ring and doing very well so far!

Kinsella Razi and Rebecca Rickerby having a very successful show season, 2010 / 2011.

Some of his many wins and placings to date include;
- Champion Novice Hack and Reserve Champion Warmblood at Rangiora A&P Show 2010
- 1st Novice Paced and Mannered, 2nd Open Paced and Champion Sport horse at the ever popular Canterbury Royal A&P show in November 2010
- Reserve Champion Open Hack at Duvauchells A&P
- Supreme Champion Horse at Westland A&P.
Rebecca is thrilled with Razi's results for his first season of competition and already looking forward to competing him as a 5 year old next year, with the knowledge he has still got plenty more growing and filling out to do yet!

4 Year Old Gelding By Gym Bello Wins Level 1 Dressage Champion • 1st February 2011
Georgio, a 4 year old gelding owned and ridden by Jacqui Thompson, has recently started competing in dressage, with wins and placings in most of his class starts. At the recent Denis Reichenbach Wairarapa Dressage Championships in Masterton he went very well for Jacqui, with scores of over 73% and was crowned Overall Level 1 Champion. This was only his 5th competition outing so Jacqui was very pleased with his performance.

Georgio and Jacqui Thompson, Overall Level 1 Dressage Champions, Masterton, Jan 2011.

Georgio was bred by Allie Harper in Winton, he is by Gym Bello out of Jubilee who is by Jaguar. Jacqui says he is the easiest youngster she has ever had - quiet and laid back, but forward thinking to ride. No doubt we can look forward to more good results from this pair in the future!

Hubertus Hufendiek Lessons • 21st January 2011
Hubertus Hufendiek was in New Zealand again recently giving lessons around the country. We welcomed the opportunity to have Hubertus stay with us while he was in Christchurch and enjoyed hearing his opinions and praise for our horses and the way we operate the stud, as well as his positive comments for New Zealand horses in general being so lucky to live outdoors most of the time and being given a slower preparation than they do in Germany. It is always so interesting to hear the perspectives of offshore riders and trainers about things that we almost take for granted here!

Above: Astek Grandiose, 3 year old gelding, ridden by Marie during their lesson with Hubertus Hufendiek.

Two of our recently broken in 3 year olds - Astek Galliano and Astek Grandiose (both geldings by Gym Bello) attended a short lesson each with Hubertus at the local indoor arena where he was giving lessons, and both impressed with their superb calm, trainability and work ethic, Marie doing a good job on board.

Above: Astek Ghisella, 4 year old mare ridden by Janelle Sangster-Ward

Two other Gym Bello progeny, 4 year old Astek Ghisella (owned by Janelle Sangster-Ward), and 5 year old Astek Gazeni (owned in partnership between Astek Stud, Brent Jury and Julie Batchelor), also attended lessons, with Hubertus enjoying a ride on Gazeni!
Thanks again to Antonia Steeg for these great photos of the lessons.

Above: 5 year old gelding Astek Gazeni with Hubertus aboard

Recent Pics and News From Some Talented Ramirez Progeny • January 2011
These photos and news have been sent through to us recently of some of Ramirez' offspring that are out competing.
"Oscar Star" an 8 year old gelding by Ramirez out of a Voltaire II mare, bred by Seattle Lodge, has been competing in great form this season with owner Amy Playle, some recent show results including 3rd in the Amateur series class, 8th in the 1.15m and 2nd in the 1.20m.
"Astek Riskae" (4 year old Holsteiner/TB gelding) has made his showhunter debut this season with owner Trudi Biggar, placing in his early shows and displaying a great attitude to the competition scene, taking it all in his (big!) stride. This lovely photos taken during a Waikato Showhunter competition held at Taupo NEC.

Left: Astek Riskae with Trudi Biggar | Right: Retrospect II with Greg Jamieson

"Retrospect II" has also made a great start to the season on the showjuming circuit with Greg Jamieson, jumping double clear at 1.40m and placing in his first show classes against all the top combinations. See Chester Farm's website www.chesterfarm.co.nz for more news from Greg and Diana.

"Astek Gymnast" Auckland Level 3 Champion & Young Dressage Horse Champion
• 20th December 2010
The impressive gelding "Astek Gymnast" and owner/rider Vic Wall had a super weekend at Auckland Manakua Dressage Festival on 10th - 12th December 2010, putting in 4 very accurate and consistent performances, with 3 out of 4 tests being wins with scores of over 70%, including the Musical Freestyle. Gymnast got 2nd in the Challenge by .4% (due to a wee course error). They also won the Champion Young Dressage Horse title for the second year running. This is awarded to the 4, 5 or 6 year old horse with the highest championship points regardless of grade. They won the Level 3 Championship on 38 points (out of a possible 40) and the next horse was on 16 points so Vic was delighted with the consistancy they achieved.

Astek Gymnast and Vic Wall - Auckland Level 3 Champions and Young Dressage Horse Champions, Dec 2010.

"Astek Ginsling" Wins Training Event At Woodhill Sands • 10th December 2010
Striking black 6yo Hanoverian/TB gelding "Astek Ginsling" by Gym Bello x Star Of Pegasus, (known as Tonic at home) has just recently made his eventing debut where he has made an immediate impression! Owned by Stephanie Smith, and currently ridden by Lizzie Brown (while Stephanie is pregnant!), Ginsling's first Training event start at Riverdale, Rotorua on the 6th and 7th November saw him finish the competition in 8th place after a good dressage test and clear cross-country, just taking one rail in the showjumping.

Astek Ginsling wins Training Event, Woodhill Sands, November 2010. Photos: Libby Law Photography

The following weekend at Woodhill Sands 13th and 14th November, Ginsling's lovely dressage test score of 77% saw him leading the field, then a great cross-country round and clear showjumping saw him win the competition by 9 points out of 33 starters in his division. Great results!
Ginsling's super athleticism is now really starting to show and proving the Hanoverian/TB cross holds the versatility, scope, movement and athleticism for eventing competition, as is already so well known in Europe.
We look forward to seeing this quality young horse continue through the grades.

Talented Ramirez Mare Wins Grand Prix at North Island Showjumping Championships
• 5th December 2010
The classy bay Holsteiner/TB mare "My Ocean Wave" by Ramirez has recently joined Lisa Coupe's showjumping team, with the pair putting on a super jumping display in the Cathay Pacific 1* Grand Prix at the North Island Showjumping Championships held at Foxton 26th - 28th November. A lovely clear 1st round (1.45m) saw them head into the jump-off, where they were first to go and put forward a fast time and all clear jumping round that couldn't be beaten by the rest of the country's top horses and riders that followed, seeing Lisa and My Ocean Wave secure the win. A great result from this new combination and we look forward to watching them progress through the season.

More Classy Foals Born At Astek • 5th December 2010
We have had a hard time keeping our website up to date with all the latest foals arriving lately! See our Youngstock page for more new arrivals as we add them!!

Above left: RV Natasha nurses her colt. | Above right: Hanoverian colt exploring the paddock | Photos: Antonia Steeg

Astek Stud Stallions Win the Trifecta at NZWHA Championship Show 2010!!
• 22nd November 2010
Classy 4 year old mare "Astek Ghisella" (Gym Bello x Belcam Angelica - Aachen) was crowned Supreme Champion Warmblood AND Supreme Premier Mare / Filly at the 2010 NZ Warmblood Horse Association Championship show held at McLeans Island recently. Ghisella's superb movement, beauty and type saw her win the Supremes over many other well bred young warmblood horses, including stallions. Congratulations to Janelle and Helen Sangster-Ward on their acheivement.

Astek Ghisella receives her Supreme Champion sashes and covers

Left: Astek Ghisella, Supreme Champion Warmblood | Right: Astek Robina, Champion Junior Filly | Photos: Antonia Steeg

We took 2 year old Holsteiner / TB filly "Astek Robina" along for the outing experience, where she stood up proudly and trotted out beautifully with Marie to win Champion Junior Filly. Maturing into a classy young mare, we look forward to starting Robina under saddle in the coming autumn.
A Voltaire II x Spectacular Dreams (TB) 2 year old gelding that we bred and sold in utero was also present at the show, and won Champion Junior Male.... making it a trifecta for Astek Stud with our 3 stallions taking out the 3 major titles of the show!! A good day was had by all, thanks to our team and to the local NZWHA show comittee for another great show.

**NEWS FLASH**
"Voltaire II" Ranked 8th Top Eventing Sire IN THE WORLD!! • 14th November 2010
Based on the FEI / WBFSH Horse Rankings, Voltaire II is ranked as the 8th top eventing sire in the world for the 2010 season, due to his progeny performances at top international level.
Click here for more details.

Another Gorgeous Gym Bello Filly Arrives • 29th October 2010
After keeping us awake for the past week sleeping and rolling at night on the alarm, beautiful Thoroughbred mare "Stately Affair" finally decided it was time to produce the goods, delivering a very attractive bay filly by Gym Bello at 12.50am. Owned by Diana and Greg at Chester Farm, this filly is a full sister, among others, to 2010 National 5yo Showhunter Champion "Astek Gianni" who is competed by Diana, and she already reminds us alot of Gianni as a foal! A very athletic, refined type with a very talkative, perky nature, she has the same beautiful head and eye like her siblings and is sure to follow in their successful footsteps.

Vale To Stallion "Elenbee's R-Rated" • 28th October 2010
A sad day came on Thursday 28th October when our wonderful little Arabian stallion "Elenbee's R-Rated" passed away. "Red" or "Rabbie" as he was known, was our first stallion and first imported horse and has taught us so much over the years, providing huge amounts of character and personality to the farm and much amusement to our family and friends through his various antics. Red's famous full Crabbet pedigree held a close double cross of the world acclaimed "Nazeer" combined with the superb "Chip Chase Desert Wind", providing him with a prepotent pedigree and seeing him produce countless winners both in-hand and under saddle, ranging from unbeaten Supreme Champions in the show ring to top Endurance champions, dressage and jumping winners and multiple Roll Of Merit honours, in both Australia and New Zealand.
At 28 years of age, Red lived a very happy life here with us at Astek and his presence will be greatly missed. He has been buried on the farm sitting up facing the rising sun. RIP Rabbie.

Classy Gym Bello X Cabernet Filly Born • 25th October 2010
One of our new mares "Cabernet" has produced her first foal on the 25th October - a classy bay filly by Hanoverian sire Gym Bello. With the real 'Gym Bello' shaped face, this classy girl has a super body with very slopey shoulder and long athletic legs, her playful nature showing through very early with a cheeky character and expression.
Cabernet, who's close pedigree holds the famous stallions Cordeur, Contender and Cor De La Bryere, is being a super mother with her new baby and taking motherhood in her (enormous) stride! This photo taken at 1 day old while resting in the barn, more photos coming soon!

Ramirez Progeny Win Both 5 And 6 Year Old Showjumping Classes • 25th October 2010
Eyecatching 5 year old mare "Astek Reveal" by Ramirez won 1st= place with a lovely double clear in the Astek Stud 5 Year Old series class with owner Fiona Sharp, while Rik Van Miltenburg and his quality Ramirez gelding "Truly Unique" won 1st in the 6 Year Old class and 4th in the Amateur Rider class (1.10 - 1.20m), both at the Southland Spring Carnival show held 23rd and 24th October.

Vettori by Voltaire II Finishes 8th Overall At World Equestrian Games • 12th October 2010
The very well performed 14 year old grey gelding "Vettori" by Voltaire II, (previously winner of the 2009 Adeleide CCI4*) competed with Stuart Tinney representing Australia in the World Championship eventing competition at the recent 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky. They started off with a great dressage test which Stuart felt was one of their best ever performances, scoring 47.2. Vettori then made a fantastic effort around the cross-country, jumping a confident clear and finishing with just 0.4 time penalties, putting them in 14th position overall. The showjumping day saw combinations placed ahead of them take some rails, but a beautiful smooth round saw Stuart and Vettori jump clear and within the time to see them finish the competition on a score of 47.6 and move them up to finish 8th overall in the Individual World Equestrian Games rankings. A fantastic effort by this talented combination and a proud moment for our sire "Voltaire II" to have one of his progeny compete alongside and stand proud with the best eventing horses in the world.
The final standings held many horses of warmblood descent, clearly proving the talent and capability of Warmbloods to compete with success in eventing at world class level. New Zealand team rider Clarke Johnson, who placed 39th individually and won bronze with 3rd overall in the teams event on his debut at WEG aboard Orient Express, may be one of the next ones to watch as he brings his own Voltaire II gelding through the grades!

Second Foal Of 2010 Season Arrives • 12th October 2010
One of our new mares has given birth to our second foal of the 2010 season in the middle of a freezing storm in the early hours of Monday morning, October 11th. "Kinnordy Grimalda" - majestic grey Hanoverian mare by Graf Landau out of Smeralda, produced a strong, handsome colt by Voltaire II at 3.20am, amongst most unwelcoming weather! A very tall colt, he took awhile to find his legs and get a drink, but before long we had them sheltering in the barn where Grimalda was happy to let her new baby nurse and enjoy some special one on one time with her new son.
A specially bred colt, his dam is a full sister to our stallion Gym Bello's own mother, and crossed with Voltaire II provides some powerful line-breeding to the world famous jumping producer "Gotthard" - so this colt really should jump the moon! Photos taken on his first day exploring the outside world.

"Astek Vanquish" - Voltaire II x Grimalda (Graf Landau) at one day old.

"Astek Genias" Crowned Champion ShowHunter In USA • 1st October 2010
Astek Genias (Gym Bello x RV Natasha) has already outdone her first show performance (see news item below, 11th June) with owner Laura Dampf in Los Angeles, USA, by now going out to win Overall Champion Adult Amateur Hunter at only her second showhunter competition held over the 25th and 26th September. Laura says "...I'm very proud and pleased. Her looks and way of going is obvious - her brain is what is the most incredible thing about her - that is hard to duplicate."
Genias is a magnifcent 4 year old dark brown/black mare who stands at approx 16.3hh and is from Gym Bello second crop of foals. She is a 3/4 sister to "Astek Gymnast" - National Level 2 Dressage Champion and National Young Dressage Horse 2009/10. Her 2009 full brother "Astek Galahad" is another outstanding type and is for sale. See our Youngstock page for more details.

Astek Genias with Laura Dampf on her way to Champion Hunter, Los Angeles, USA, Sept 2010.

Yes! Astek Stud Is Still Standing After Recent Earthquake! And First Foal Arrives!
• 7th September 2010
A quick note to let all friends and supporters know that everyone here on the stud - both humans and animals - have come through the 4.30am 4th September 7.1 earthquake fine with next to no damage to report, other than losing power and requiring our back-up generator to kick into action - and shattering a few nerves along the way! The earthquake was centered very close to the Burnham Military Camp in South Canterbury which is only a very short distance from us here in Burnham. The main quake was a truely terrifying experience.... we are still getting many, many quite strong aftershocks day and night and are pretty amazed any houses or buildings could still be standing. Sincere thanks to everyone who has emailed and phoned us over the last few days... your support and concern is much appreciated!

Amongst the harrowing aftershocks, some good news is that our first foal of the season has arrived! Beautiful newly imported mare "Fleur De Mimosa" (Flemmingh / Weltmeyer / Grannus) delivered a classy chestnut colt by German sensation "Quaterback" (via frozen semen) at 5am Sunday morning. With a beautiful big diamond shaped star, long white socks and showing a gorgeous nature already, he is a super colt and just what we needed to pick up spirits from the previous mornings events.

Reserve Champion Showhunter In Los Angeles, USA, Sired By Gym Bello • 11th June 2010
"Astek Genias" (by Gym Bello x Range View Natasha by Falkensee) who was exported to Los Angeles, USA, as a yearling, is now a gorgeous 4 year old mare and recently attended her first competition - the very big and competitive "Memorial Day Classic AA Show" at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, with owner Laura Dampf. Their superb jump style, movement and presence saw them WIN the Mini Hunter Classic and finish the show as Reserve Champions in the Low A/A Hunters!
Genias attracted much attention from the top hunter trainers and other competitors throughout the 5 day show, including purchase offers.
We were so excited to hear this news from the USA, adding to Gym Bello's already quite incredible collection of results from his progeny now competing under saddle. We look forward to hearing more results and progress from Laura and Genias and send them a huge congratulations from New Zealand!!

"Astek Giovanni" & "Astek Graffiti" Winning At Level 1 Dressage • 10th May 2010
The 4 year old Hano/TB geldings "Astek Giovanni" and "Astek Graffiti" have both had more success following their debut dressage competitions recently (see news item below).
Graffiti entered his second competition at McLeans Island, Christchurch with Nicki Page where he did a beautiful first test to win the 1.6 class with 70%, and then placed 2nd with 66.9% in his second test. Graffiti has been getting great comments and scores includings 8s for his walks and lengthening which is excellent.
Giovanni also entered his first Level 1 classes on 9th May with Cath Nichols of the Kapiti Coast, he too doing some excellent work and winning BOTH classes entered, again with excellent comments and scores, and in front of a growing fan club of onlookers!
Both of these lovely young geldings are by Gym Bello out of Thoroughbred mares. Giovanni is a full brother to "Astek Gianni" who was recently crowned National 5yo Showhunter Champion with Diana. Dam "Stately Affair" is in foal again to Gym Bello this season - with her 2 oldest Gym Bello progeny already proving themselves so successfully under saddle, this next arrival is another hotly awaited outcome!

"Astek Gazeni" Wins 4yo Young Event Horse & 5th Overall Training Horse at South Island 3 Day Event • 26th April 2010
Majestic 4yo Hano/TB gelding "Astek Gazeni" by Gym Bello, owned by Astek Stud in partnership with Brent Jury and Julie Batchelor of Christchurch, has recently started in early competitions with Brent aboard with exciting results. Entered in the Young Event Horse class held prior to the South Island 3 Day Event at McLeans Island, Gazeni made a great impression, scoring particularly well in the dressage and gallop phases, which saw him win the 4yo section. He then went on to place 5th overall in the Young Event Horse Championship with a score of 89.71, making him the highest placed 4yo.
Gazeni then entered the Training event over the next three days, a beautiful dressage test put him in 2nd place going into the X-Country. He did a fantastic round right until one of the last jumps when a dog had got free from its handler and ran free with leash dragging right towards and under Gazeni's heels just as he was approaching a jump, causing him to lose his concentration and stop at the fence. This was a real shame however he went on to complete the course in fine style and with that stop his only error. Showjumping day on Sunday saw him jump in good form and take only one rail. His final placing of 5th overall in the Training competition was excellent!

Gym Bello's 4 Year Olds Making Successful Competition Debuts • 8th April 2010
"Astek Gazeni" (part owned and ridden by Brent Jury), "Astek Graffiti" (owned and ridden by Nicki Page) and "Astek Giovanni" (owned and ridden by Cath Nichols) have all made their competition debuts recently in the dressage arena.
Gazeni and Graffiti both competed at McLeans Island, Christchurch in a Level 1 class of 32 competitors where they were placed 2nd and 3rd respectively - well done!
Giovanni and Cath from the Kapiti Coast also made an excellent start to their competition career placing 6th and 5th in their first two dressage tests with scores of 68% and 73% and very positive comments from the judges. Congratulations!

"Astek Gianni" Wins National Showhunter Title For 2010 • 6th April 2010
Astek Gianni and Diana have continued on a roll following their success at Horse Of The Year show. At the NZ National Young Horse Showjumping Championships held in Taupo over Easter weekend, April 2010, Diana and Gianni competed in the showhunter classes. On Saturday they placed 2nd in the 5yo Showhunter (1metre, behind winner Astek Geneva!) and then on Sunday they did a beautiful foot-perfect round in the 5yo Showhunter Championship (1.05m) which secured them the win and earnt them the title of National 5yo Showhunter Champion 2010! A big sash and sponsors rug were presented to Diana and Gianni in front of the grandstand before they did their victory lap around the main arena.
Astek Geneva, with owner Trudi Biggar, won the Junior Showhunter and was placed 3rd in the 5yo Showhunter Championship, making it a double success for Astek, with the only 2 of our oldest Gym Bello progeny that are competing in jumping competition both in the top National placegetters!

Astek Stud News From The "Horse Of The Year" Show 2010 • 24th March 2010
Progeny by our stallions all performed with great success at the ever popular Horse Of The Year show held in Hastings 16th - 21st March.
Greg and Diana from Chester Farm had a great show with their two horses "Retrospect II" (8yo gelding by Ramirez") and "Astek Gianni" (5yo mare by Gym Bello). Retrospect entered 3 showjumping classes at the show and came away with 3 ribbons! He jumped double clear in the tight 1.35m class on Thursday to place 2nd - less than one second behind the winner. On Friday he jumped a superb round in the 1.40m to be only one of two to go clear and make it through to the jump-off. Vicki Wilson gave the jump-off her all, but knocked down the last fence, giving Greg and Retrospect the enviable position of going clear and within the time to win the class, which they went on to do with ease and to much applause from the crowd in the grandstand! On Saturday the pair entered the "1.35m Horse Of The Year Championship", a lovely round saw them become one of twelve to jump clear (from over 60 starters) to go forward to the second round. Again they jumped an easy clear round, moving them forward to the final jump-off with 6 other combinations. A tight time but one unlucky rail saw Greg and Retrospect II finish the class in 5th place - a fine effort and great display of showjumping earning them a lovely big sash!

Diana with Astek Gianni competing in Showhunter at Horse Of The Year 2010

Diana rode her 5yo mare Astek Gianni in the showhunter at HOY, having previously qualified to compete by gaining the necessary 20 points or more to attend. Gianni jumped with beautiful, consistent style and rhythm throughout the entire show, highlights including 3rd place in the Open 1.05m behind "Moll Flanders" (2009 Showhunter Of The Year) and the ever consistent winner "Squirt", and 6th in the First Year Registered Showhunter - very good results for a young horse at only her 5th showhunter competition!
Gianni also entered the NZ SportHorse in-hand and ridden classes where she won the "Best Mare 3yo and Over For Breeding Sporthorses", placed 2nd in "Most Suitable For Dressage", "Most Suitable For Showjumping" and "Most Suitable For Eventing" - a super allround acheivement!

"Astek Geneva", 5yo mare owned by Trudi Biggar of Auckland, also had a great show with her super wins and placings throughout the season seeing her presented with the prize after finishing 4th Overall National Junior Showhunter at HOY. This classy black mare catches the eye of every judge when she enters the ring, and it is great to see her utilising her talents and gaining these super ongoing results.

"Astek Gymnast", 5yo gelding by Gym Bello ridden by Victoria Wall, also had a fantastic show at HOY. Going into the show he was leading the National Level 2 Musical Freestyle leaderboard, a 4th placing in this class at the show was enough for him to win the National Level 2 Musical Freestyle title with another beautiful rug and sash to his credit. Gymnast also placed 3rd overall in the Level 2 Dressage HOY. His entry into the NZ SportHorse ridden section saw him win the "Most Suitable For Dressage" class before going forward to then win Supreme Champion Ridden Sporthorse Horse Of The Year! What an amazing year this young horse has had, our congratulations to Vic on a super season.

"Astek Gymnast" By Gym Bello Crowned Overall National Young Dressage Horse Champion AND Wins The Level 2 National Title at the 2010 Bates National NZ Dressage Championships!! • 9th March 2010

Victoria Wall and her super 5yo Hanoverian/Trakehner gelding "Astek Gymnast" by Gym Bello performed with great distinction at the Bates NZ National Dressage Championships held 4th - 7th March at Taupo. The Young Dressage horse classes were judged by Bernard Maurel (France), Jan Bird and ridden by Australia’s Grand Prix dressage rider Nicholas Fyffe. Gymnast won the 5yo Young Dressage Horse Champion before going forward for against the top 4yo, Rakanui Embracing (Lynne King), and top 6yo Diva’s Glory MH (Casey Johnson) where Gymnast was then selected as the Overall Young Dressage Horse Champion.

Photo Credit: Kate Peddie Gee Gee Photography

On top of this, Vic and Gymnast also won the Bates Level 2 National title, fending off top competition from the likes of Kallista Field with Sobranie FE and Casey Johnson with Diva’s Glory MH.
Click on this link to see the full report from NZ Equestrian website -
http://www.zeus-sport.com/EQUESTRIANPRIVATE/Article.aspx?Mode=1&ID=3862

Adding to these national titles, Astek Gymnast is also currently leading the national Zilco Level 2 Musical Freestyle leadboard for 2009/10!

These are VERY exciting results for Gym Bello, adding to his already impressive line-up of progeny performances. Gymnast, as a 5 year old, is from the first limited crop of Gym Bello's progeny, of which all are now competing with much success in dressage, showing, showhunter and showjumping. Our biggest congratulations to Vic and Astek Gymnast for such a superb effort, we look forward to next watching them in action at the coming Horse Of The Year show in Hastings.

"Astek Gianni" Wins Open Amateur Showhunter At Wellington-Horowhenua 2 Star Showjumping Championships • 8th March 2010
Classy 5yo Hano/TB mare "Astek Gianni" by Gym Bello competed in Foxton at the Wellington Showjumping Championships on the 27th and 28th February 2010 with Diana where she performed beautifully throughout the weekend, highlights being winning both the 'First Year Registered Showhunter' class and the 'Kiwispan Open Amateur High Points Showhunter' class which is a highly competitive national series and included several very experienced combinations who are currently in the Top 6 of the National Series leaderboard. Gianni has qualified and will be competing in Showhunter at Horse Of The Year Show in Hastings from 17th - 21st March.
Photo at right shows Gianni and Diana competing earlier in January at Waitemata 3* Woodhill Sands where they were placed in 5 classes.

"Astek Incahoots" Wins At NZ National Showjumping Championships • 15th February 2010
Talented up and coming mare "Astek Incahoots" who we own in partnership with rider John Cottle had a great show at the NZ National Showjumping Championships held at McLeans Island 10th - 14th February where she won the tightly contested 1.20m - 1.30m Championship title ahead of some of the country's top combinations.
Incahoots, a Holsteiner bred mare by Baldini imported from Germany, was a late starter to the sport however is certainly making up for lost time now in her 2nd season of competition with John, already with several wins and placings up to 1.30m to her credit. A playful, powerful mare who has excellent technique and loves to jump, we have been breeding her via embryo transfer alongside her competition career. We already have a classy Holsteiner yearling gelding by Ramirez on the ground, and this season have just had recent confirmation of a 42 day positive pregnancy (via embryo transfer) with a Gym Bello foal now on its way.
Our congrats to John Cottle for guiding Astek Incahoots to this fantastic win. Coverage of the Nationals will be broadcast on CTV sometime in the near future, we will keep you informed when we find out the dates!

Exciting First For New Zealand - "Quaterback" Foal Born At Astek • 7th February 2010

Our imported Warmblood mare "Belcam Aarcadia" has giving birth to a gorgeous upstanding dark bay colt by the sensational young Hanoverian stallion "Quaterback" who is making a huge impact in Germany thanks to his truely outstanding movement and the superior quality of his first foal crops which have topped the Elite foal sales in Germany, including in 2009 a colt selling for 120,000 Euros (approx NZ$238,000!). Quaterback was the Bundeschampionat division for 3 year old Stallions in 2006, his scores for the Bundeschampionat were: Trot; 9.5, Canter: 10, Walk 7.5, Conformation: 9.5, Overall Impression: 9.5. This exceptional moving young stallion has already started his winning ways in competition. Paired with the talented young rider, Christian Flamm of Hessen, Quateback galloped away from the competition at the Bundeschampionate in 2006. He started his stallion career by being named Champion of his licensing in Neustadt/Dosse in 2005. In 2006, after the Bundeschampionate, he went on to win his 30 day test at Neustadt/Dosse with outstanding scores: Temperament 9.0, Trot 9.25, Canter 9.75, Walk 7.63, Ridability 9.75, Jumping 7.75.

Upstanding Bay Colt by Quaterback x Belcam Aarcadia (by Aachen) at 3 days old. He is the first foal by sensational new German Hanoverian sire "Quaterback" to be born in New Zealand.

Above: "Quarteback" video clip

Our new colt is a very exciting arrival for New Zealand as he is the first foal by Quaterback to be born in this country - the frozen semen is very difficult to obtain due to the stallion being privately owned and with restrictions on his frozen semen being exported out of Germany.
Dark bay with 3 white socks and a tiny star, our new colt is displaying a great outlook on life with a highly trainable temperament . His very handsome face combines with a correct, athletic, scopey body. His great knee action and floaty movement shows exciting promise and we very much look forward to seeing him develop!
His dam "Belcam Aaracdia" was bred at the highly regarded Belcam Stud in Australia by Ulrich and Belinda Klatte. Her sire Aachen(imp/exp GER) is one of the most influential stallions to have been used in Australian performance horse breeding. He was imported to Australia as a young stallion, then exported back to Germany as a Grand Prix showjumper where he still competes at World Cup level. He has produced many Internationally successful Eventers including "Aava" (WEG 2002) and Belcam Aaberdeen (full sister to our mare "Belcam Angelica"), as well as multiple FEI Dressage and World Cup Showjumping horses. Aachen's sire the legendary Hanoverian "Argentinus" (deceased) who is one of the world's greatest ever sires and has produced Olympic competitors in both Dressage and Showjumping.
Aarcadia has already produced several Premium rated foals in Australia by frozen semen sires including Stedinger and Routiner.
We are certain her exciting new colt foal will follow in his family's footsteps and not dissapoint!

Above: The new German Hanoverian stallion sensation "Quaterback"

Prestigious NZ Grand National Title For "Astek Ghisella" • 1st February 2010
Beautiful dark brown 3yo filly Astek Ghisella (By Gym Bello out of Belcam Angelica by Aachen) attended the NZ Grand National show recently with owner Janelle Sangster-Ward. Ghisella's outstanding movement and type shone amongst the competition, resulting in her winning the very prestigious National title of 'NZ Grand National Champion Warmblood'. Ghisella won a lovely big sash and rug, we are sure this is the first of many performance results for this exceptional young horse, our congrats to Janelle for a job very well done! Photos coming soon.

Gym Bello Progeny Showhunter Results • 1st February 2010
At the Waitemata (Auckland) Showjumping & Showhunter 3* Show held at Woodhill Sands 16uth and 17th January 2010, Astek Gianni entered the showhunter classes with Diana, jumping some very good rounds and gaining 14 SH points throughout the 2 days of competition. Results:
- 3rd and 4th placings in 4&5yo Showhunter
- 2nd, 3rd and two 4th placings in the First Year Registered classes at 1 metre.
- Gianni is currently in 3rd place on the Waitemata Showhunter First Year Registered Series.
Astek Geneva was also in attendance with owner Trudi Biggar, where she won the 4&5yo class on Saturday and was 2nd on Sunday!
Super results for both Gym Bello progeny amongst tough competition and big classes.

Voltaire II Filly Reserve Champion • 1st February 2010
'Horse & Pony' magazine editor Rowan Dixon bred a gorgeous filly by Voltaire II this season and the pair have recently been out to some in-hand shows, with great success! At the North Island All Breeds Show, "Volanti" won her three foal classes (Sport Horse, Warmblood and Saddle Hunter) and was titled Reserve Champion Junior Youngstock in both the Saddle Hunter and the Warmblood rings. Her beautiful dam won Supreme Broodmare of the whole show, as well as Supreme Saddle Hunter. Our congrats to Rowan for breeding such a quality filly and doing so well at their first shows! A great sign of things to come.. :o)

Classy filly foal "Volanti" by Voltaire II, bred by Rowan Dixon.

Gym Bello's Progeny In Jumping Competition • 11th January 2010
"Astek Geneva" (5yo mare by Gym Bello x TB Mare "Appointment") has been continuing to do very well lately with her owner Trudi Biggar of Coatesville in the showhunter arena. Geneva's beautifully executed rounds at the Auckland Showhunter Group show at Pukekohe domain on Sunday 10th Jan saw her win both the Junior 1m and Junior High Points 1m classes, with outstanding scores of 91%! Geneva is always commented on for her quality movement, jump style and class which catch the judges eye. Well done Trudi!

"Astek Gianni" (5yo mare by Gym Bello x TB Mare "Stately Affair") has also been out starting her jumping competition career this season with Diana, with their first official showjumping start at Taupo Christmas Classic in December 09. Gianni jumped in the 1 metre class each day and demonstrated her bold attitude and very smart jumping technique, doing some excellent first rounds. Gianni also attended the Auckland Showhunter competition 10th Jan, and did 2 fantastic rounds in the Amatuer 1metre and the KiwiwSpan Amatuer High Points 1metre, scoring 79% and 86%, just one point behind the placegetters. Judges commented on her excellent jump style, very good rhythm, balance and movement, so a very promising way to make her showhunter debut.

Astek Gianni at Taupo Christmas Classic, Dec 2009

"Astek Gymnast" By Gym Bello - Level 2 Dressage Champion & Young Horse Trophy Winner At Auckland Championships • 20th December 2009
News has just come to hand that 5yo gelding Astek Gymnast (by Gym Bello x Falkensee mare) attended the Auckland Manakau Festival Of Dressage 2009 (Auckland Championships) with his owner/rider Victoria Wall, where he WON the overall Champion Level 2 (Novice) Horse, won the Level 2 Musical Freestyle and also won the Dudley Memorial Trophy for the Champion Young Dressage Horse 4/5/6 year old!
Gymnast is also currently leading the Zilco Musical Freestyle Leaderboard Level 2 with 22 points from a previous win at the Waikato Champs and a 3rd at the BOP Champs.
He has also recently been selected to appear on the Cover of the National Dressage Championships Programme of Events in March 2010.
Our congratulations to this super combination on their on-going success!! These exciting results just continue to come in from Gym Bello's oldest progeny that are competing. Photos coming soon.

"Vancouver" By Voltaire II Wins $25,000 Puissance Class at the Washington International Horse Show • 4th December 2009
News has just come to hand that the well known New Zealand horse "Vancouver" by Voltaire II has just won the $25,000 Puissance Class at the Washington International Horse Show with rider McLain Ward, jumping the impressive height of 2.01 metres (6'7").
Vancouver was competed in NZ by Britta Pederson at Advanced eventing before he then went to Oliver Edgecombe where he performed with much success winning the NZ World Cup Showjumping Series and also the 2007 HOY Puissance. He was sold for a record price for a New Zealand showjumper when he went to the USA.
Very exciting news to hear this talented horse is continuing to perform with distinction against some of the top international horses!

Voltaire II Son Wins Adelaide International CCI 4* Event • 18th November 2009
Exported son "Vettori" by Voltaire II has won the challenging Adelaide International CCI 4* event held in Australia November 13th - 15th 2009. The technical and demanding cross-country course proved to be a tough track amidst an early heat wave of temperatures hovering around 40 degrees. Olympic Gold Medalist Stuart Tinney and Vettori jumped a clear showjumping round to finish on a score of 65.8, winning them the competition.

2009 Foals At Play • 18th November 2009
Fantastic local photographer Antonia Steeg spent some time out in the foal paddocks and came back to us with these absolutely beautiful shots of some of the new babies at play! I know we seem to say it every year, but this definately seems to be the best foal crop yet!! :o)

Left: Hanoverian/TB Filly by Gym Bello x Sparkling Wine. | Right: The biggest and the smallest Holsteiner foals by Ramirez meet!

Above: Superb Hanoverian colt by Gym Bello x Belcam Angelica

Left: Personality plus - Holsteiner filly by Ramirez x JK Jess | Right: Gorgeous Hano/TB filly by Gym Bello x Sparkling Wine

Left: Belcam Angelica proudly shows off her colt by Gym Bello | Right: Devine Hanoverian filly by Gym Bello x Kinnordy Ravenna

 

5yo Mare By Gym Bello Wins Supreme Champion at NZWHA Championships
• 9th November 2009
"Rosari Ghiotto", a beautiful dark bay/brown 5yo mare by Gym Bello out of a Master mare, attended the NZ Warmblood Horse Association Championship show in Christchurch on Sunday 8th November with owner Janelle Sangster-Ward of Blenheim. Her first in-hand show outing provided superb results, with her winning her Age & Sex classes and going on to win Supreme Champion Led, as well as Supreme Premier Mare / Filly. Ghiotto impressed the crowd and judges with her top quality elevated movement, beautiful looks, lovely temperament and excellent overall conformation.
This exact same result was previously won in 2006 by then 2yo filly Astek Gianni, also at her very first show outing! So gives Gym Bello yet another great result to add to his progeny successes.
Rosari Ghiotto is actually being offered for sale as Janelle is going to Europe to continue her dressage training - see our Horses For Sale page for more info on this quality young horse.
The NZWHA show always makes for a very enjoyable outing, ideal for young horses and is always very popular with warmblood owners in the lead up to the hugely popular Royal A&P on 13th November and the many other coming shows.