In an exciting development for the equestrian world, Linda Kouwenhoven’s promising international small tour horse, Landlord H, has been leased to Dubai with aspirations set on competing in the 2026 Asian Games. This move not only highlights the horse’s potential but places him in a strategic position within the global dressage scene.
Meet Landlord H
Landlord H, a striking 9-year-old KWPN gelding, boasts a pedigree that speaks to his competitive spirit. Bred by F. Haringsma Geerlig, he is sired by the renowned Dante Weltino and is out of Rowena, a lineage that includes Balzflug and Rossini. This impressive background sets the stage for a horse destined for greatness.
From Acquisition to Championship
In 2020, Landlord H was acquired by Christa Larmoyeur after being sent to her for sale, quickly proving himself under the capable hands of assistant trainer Linda Kouwenhoven. Larmoyeur sees him as the successor to her esteemed international Grand Prix horses, Ovation and Aston Martin, emphasizing his potential for future success.
Landlord H’s competitive journey has already been notable. In 2021, he and Kouwenhoven clinched the Groningen regional championship at M1 level, showcasing their burgeoning talent. By 2023, they were competing at the Dutch Indoor Championships, where their performances at ZZ-Licht level garnered attention. The following year marked a transition as they entered the small tour level, further solidifying their place in competitive dressage.
Limited International Exposure
Despite his impressive training, Landlord H’s international show experience has been somewhat limited. Their debut came during the CDI in Leeuwarden in October 2024, where they faced tough competition but still put forth commendable scores. Achieving 66.275% in the Prix St Georges and a 67.850% in the Inter I Kur, the duo finished in 11th place in both classes. These performances indicate a bright future, despite the relatively early stage of their competitive career.
Asia Awaits: The Lease to Dubai
In a strategic maneuver announced by Larmoyeur, Landlord H is set to be leased to Dubai for rider Gabrielle Thompson-Zaal. This partnership is viewed as an essential step toward preparing the horse for larger championships, particularly the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. “Landlord will be leased to Dubai until the Asian Games in Japan in September 2026,” Larmoyeur stated, highlighting the focus on building towards Grand Prix-level competition.
One of the key advantages of this lease is the opportunity for focused training. Although already trained to Grand Prix level, Landlord will primarily compete at the Prix St Georges level during this period, allowing for crucial developmental time without the pressure of high-stakes competitions.
Gabrielle Thompson-Zaal: A New Partnership
Gabrielle Thompson, originally from Australia and married to Emirati property developer Mohammed Zaal since 2017, will take the reins of Landlord H. Based out of Al Barari, Dubai, she is prepared to utilize her expertise in nurturing the horse’s talents. Notably, former British youth team rider Alexandria Barr serves as her assistant, ensuring a supportive environment for the horse’s transition.
Looking Ahead
As Landlord H prepares for his flight to Dubai on June 9, the anticipation builds not only for the horse and his new rider but also for Kouwenhoven, who can now allocate more focus on their promising young horses. With Landlord set to return home after the Asian Games, the future holds incredible potential for further training and competition as he turns ten.
With the international stage set and preparations underway, Landlord H’s journey will be one to follow closely as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.
Photo © Roland Hitze
Related Links
Scores: 2024 CDI Leeuwarden
Starters Lists for First 2021 Dutch WCYH Selection Day on 20 April 2021
