Philippe Jorissen's Le Beau Sold to South Africa

Dressage

Belgian Dressage News

Belgian Grand Prix rider Philippe Jorissen has lost the ride on his number one Grand Prix horse Le Beau. Tthe experienced 17-year old Oldenburg gelding has been sold to South Africa as a Rio Olympic hopeful.

The elegant and long legged chestnut Le Beau had been on the market for some time and owner Louis Kemps sold his horse to the German based South African Greta Veldmann who aims to qualify him for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Le Beau is bred by Heinrich Pargmann and is by Le Coeur out of Ines (by Classiker).

"For us it's time to say goodbye; to a partner, a friend, a family member, and of course a special horse," said Jorissen. "Le Beau and Philippe will go from now separate ways. We're looking back on an eight years long, fantastic cooperation and friendship."

Philippe Jorissen started competing the gelding internationally at small tour level in 2007. The pair made the move to international Grand Prix level in 2009 and reaped their first big success in 2010 when they were selected to compete at major shows such as the CDIO Rotterdam, Aachen and 5* in Hickstead.

The duo represented Belgium on the team at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, 2011 European Championships in Rotterdam, and 2013 European Championships in Herning. They were first reserves for the 2014 World Equestrian Games.

Jorissen has planned on taking Louis Kemps' Rhinelander mare Agneta (by Abanos) to Grand Prix level this year. The pair will make its international debut in Vidauban on 4 - 8 March 2015. Their home bred licensed stallion Special Agent Amour (by San Amour) will be introduced to small tour level.