News

Scuderia Sonnevend has clearly taken the equestrian world by storm - supplying the next generation of top horses to the global market from Central Europe, securing strategic partnerships with global powerhouses, structuring a breeding program that spans continents, and building one of the most extensive mare networks in showjumping today. Their partnerships include Mares of Macha from the first moment, Zangersheide as their breeding and studbook partner or Avantea, just to mention some names. Their emergence has captured the attention of the equestrian elite, raising one question: who are the visionaries fueling this rise?

At the core of Scuderia Sonnevend is a set of values held by its founder, Alexandra Sonnevend, along with her husband. For them, like most breeders, whether big or small, showjumping isn’t just a business, it’s a passion that shapes how life is lived. Alexandra's father, a renowned horseman, has a deep understanding of equestrian excellence. He and his family now pass this legacy to the next generation, who continue the tradition with passion and dedication.

What makes the Scuderia Sonnevend stable exceptional? To quote Alexandra: “Our fundamentals are simple: quality is non-negotiable, trust is earned, and relationships - whether with horses or people - are built on understanding, integrity and friendship.” With a focus on learning from partners and building strong relationships, Alexandra has created more than just a world-class stable. Her leadership, combining professionalism with warmth, has shaped an environment where horses are respected as partners, and everyone who enters the stable feels a sense of belonging.

The commitment to continuous growth

Building an equestrian center is a challenging task, but to build one with the world-class vision is even more challenging. At Scuderia Sonnevend, the focus is on providing the best conditions through their facilities, build strategic partnerships with companies like Röwer & Rüb, De Sutter Naturally, or OTTO from Germany.

Every mare, foal, and young horse receives personalized care, with tailored nutrition and training plans. A small, highly skilled team works diligently to develop each horse, bringing in top specialists and external experts when needed to ensure every detail is perfect. In line with this approach, each foal receives dedicated attention, thanks to our world-class farrier Hans Castelijn, who conducts regular check-ups and hosts practical workshops at Scuderia Sonnevend. These workshops not only elevate in-house expertise but also benefit the broader equestrian community. International showjumping athletes, like the Olympic rider Wilm Vermeir, are invited to lead training sessions for young regional talents, organized by Alexandra’s team to boost the next generation of riders.

“Professional development must be a shared value; only then can the sport progress,” Alexandra states, stressing the importance of continual learning and growth - not just in theory, but in practice, through the stable’s everyday operations.

Shaping the future: inside Scuderia Sonnevend’s breeding program

Now, let’s turn to one of the most exciting aspects of Scuderia Sonnevend: their breeding program. As a breeder, Alexandra Sonnevend understands that producing exceptional horses requires more than just science - it involves profound knowledge of every little detail, but also intuition and a deep connection with the animals. “Every breeder knows that there are instincts one should listen to,” she remarks, acknowledging the delicate balance between experience, gut feeling, and professional judgment. When asked about the selection process, she laughs off the idea of any mystery behind it. “When you only choose from the top, the outcome of the cross won’t be something to be mad about,” she says with a smile.

Her confidence is backed by Scuderia Sonnevend’s impressive portfolio of broodmares, which includes the exceptional China Touch Hero, the 'fastest on the circuit' Oh d’Eole, a direct Werly Chin mare, Elanor SA Z; the full sister of Tobago Z, mares from Geena van’t Roosakker; Evita van’t Zoggehof and Sancha LS or the market-leading young Eureka van’t Roosakker mare, and their latest addition, Hermelien vd Hooghoeve from Evergates Stables, just to name a few. Each mare brings a unique strength to the breeding program, contributing to a diverse and carefully curated portfolio of top-quality horses. This success is driven by a dedicated balance between data, experience, and professional insight, combined with an intuitive understanding of what makes a successful jumper.

One of Alexandra’s core breeding principles is her emphasis on damlines, “I’m glad to see that our buyers and breeders starting to focus more on strong damlines. This shift will have a long-term positive impact on global sport horse stock,” she says. The side of the stallions is secured: they opened a new business line, Scuderia SA Embryo Clinic & Laboratories partnered up with the most prestigious studfarms, including Stal de Muze by Joris De Brabander, Zangersheide, Paul Schockemohle, Smolders Stable, Haras de Semilly and GFE, among others to create easy access to elite stallions, enriching the genetic pool and furthering their commitment to breeding excellence.

“But selecting the right combination is just the tip of the iceberg.” Alexandra notes. “You must have a solid genetic foundation, but anyone who claims they can predict a Grand Prix horse at six months is fooling themselves. I believe the key is to listen to the horse, meet their individual needs, and give them the time and space to show who they really are.” At Scuderia Sonnevend, the focus is on producing reliable and rideable horses whose talent is nurtured at their own pace. Rushing the process can lead to early burnout or missed potential, something Alexandra is keenly aware of. “The worst thing you can do to a young horse is push them too soon,” she says, emphasizing the stable’s commitment. They encourage everyone to give their foals the time and opportunity they need to grow and develop properly.

What is coming next?

This October, the team is excited to offer more opportunities to engage with Scuderia Sonnevend:

1. Scuderia SA Embryo Clinic & Laboratories opening ceremony: They are launching a new clinic - and an announcement with Avantea - to ensure the highest quality services for their horses and clients.

2. Open month at Scuderia SA: Throughout this month, visitors can explore their stable by appointment, experiencing their rich legacy firsthand.

3. Scuderia SA Auction: For those interested in the future of showjumping, their exclusive auction presents a rare chance to invest in the next generation. This auction features a carefully curated selection of embryos, foals, young horses, and even one broodmare.

Join them on this journey and discover what makes Scuderia Sonnevend truly special