Rayabel and Superstitious Taonga Lead the Pack at the Subli Competition in Tolbert

The third qualifying competition of the Subli Competition for Young Dressage Horses produced strong scores on Saturday in Tolbert. In both the four- and five-year-old divisions, the winner scored over 80 points. Vai Bruntink won with the five-year-old Rayabel S (by Taminiau) with a score of 81.4. In the four-year-old division, the victory went to Lara van Nek with Superstitious Taonga (by My Vitality), who scored 80.2 points. Jos Hogendoorn also performed well in the five-year-old class. He rode Raleigh (by Escolar) to second place with a score of 79 and took third place with MSJ Soundtrack (by Springbank II VH) with a score of 77.4. 

Rayabel S Shines Among the Five-Year-Olds

“Vai rode a very consistent test with Rayabel. We were very pleased with that,” says Patrick Berends, who judged the five-year-olds alongside Janine van Twist. “Rayabel is a horse with a lot of suppleness and good transitions. What stood out was his excellent walk, for which we gave him a nine. The trot was also beautiful and functional, though it could have been a bit higher off the ground, and in the canter, Rayabel could have used just a little more bounce. But overall, a compelling performance—a lovely horse with good natural posture. Truly a horse with potential.”

Two horses from Hogendoorn

Regarding Raleigh, who finished second, Berends says: “This horse has a fantastic trot with a lot of suppleness. He’s already very composed and changes gears well.” That gait was rewarded with a nine. “Raleigh has a very workable canter but could use just a little more bounce in it. The walk could use more rhythm, and Raleigh needs to engage his body more in that gait; we gave it a six, and that does bring the score down.” MSJ Soundtrack, also presented by Hoogendoorn, finished third by a narrow margin. “Soundtrack is also a very nice horse with a lot of suppleness. Very light-footed with good natural posture. With a bit more polish in the test, there’s definitely more potential.”

Superstitious Taonga and Skylger are pretty much on par with each other

In the four-year-old class, Superstitious Taonga, ridden by Lara van Nek, won with a score of 80.2, and two horses came very close to 80. Skylger (by Taminiau), ridden by Gayle Bosch, scored 79.6, while Showtime S (by Merlot VDL), ridden by Kim Noordijk, scored 79.4. This class was judged by Dirk de Haas and Patricia Wolters.

“We were very impressed with Superstitious Taonga. Her trot, in particular, was full of expression, for which she received a nine. We were also enthusiastic about the canter, but Superstitious Taonga could have opened her shoulders a bit more there. This horse has a great deal of quality when changing gaits and was presented very nicely by Lara,” says Dirk de Haas, who is also enthusiastic about Skylger, ridden by Gayle Bosch. “This horse was presented very nicely and moved beautifully on his own legs. We gave the trot a 9.5—it was superbly loose throughout the body. Skylger was beautifully straight on two reins with great ability to change gaits; he was hardly inferior to Lara’s horse.”

Three eights for Showtime S

Showtime S, presented by Kim Noordijk, received an 8 in all three gaits. “A superb and very supple horse that was beautifully even in all three gaits. He was presented very straight and on two reins and is already very nimble in the closing. He is a large horse and currently lacks a bit of power, but he is certainly a horse with a great deal of quality.”

Tip from the jury

The judges saw several good horses but would like to offer a piece of advice: “It was a large group, and we certainly saw some great horses. But with a number of riders, we noticed that the riding was a bit sloppy. For example, we’d like to see the yield be ten meters. We’re not too strict about eight or nine meters; with the four-year-olds, it’s all about natural ability and quality. But if it’s five meters, you’re really throwing away points. That’s a tip for the riders to focus on more.”

A competition with international appeal

This third qualifying competition of the Subli Competition was held as part of the multi-day show in Tolbert. “It was beautifully organized and everything looked fantastic. Truly a show with international flair.”

Subli League Results, Tolbert, August 29, 2026

Four-year-olds

1. Lara van Nek, Superstitious Taonga (by My Vitality) 80.2
2. Gayle Bosch, Skylger (by Taminiau) 79.6
3. Kim Noordijk, Showtime S (by Merlot VDL) 79.4

Five-year-olds

1. Vai Bruntink, Rayabel S (by Taminiau) 81.4
2. Jos Hogendoorn, Raleigh (by Escolar) 79
3. Jos Hogendoorn, MSJ Soundtrack (by Springbank II VH) 77.4

The next qualifying competition of the Subli Competition for Young Dressage Horses will take place on Saturday, September 5, in Heeswijk. For the complete schedule and the current standings of the Subli Competition, visit the Subli Competition page.

Want to stay up to date on all the developments surrounding the Subli Competition? Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and sign up for our newsletter.

Stop by Subli at Horse Event

In September, you’ll find Subli at Horse Event in Vijfhuizen for two weekends. On Saturday, September 12, and Sunday, September 13, we’ll be at Horse Event Pro, and a week later, on September 19 and 20, we’ll be there for you at Horse Event Youth. Stop by our booth, meet our specialists, and discover what Subli can do for you and your horse.

Personalized Feeding Advice at Horse Event Pro

Do you have questions about your horse's diet? Or would you like to know which feed is best suited to your horse, its training, or the conditions at your stable? During Horse Event Pro On September 12 and 13, our specialists will be happy to help you find the right solution. Stop by our booth for personalized advice or to learn more about Subli horse feed.

Fun Activities at the Horse Event Youth

On September 19 and 20, we’ll be back in Vijfhuizen during Horse Event Youth. A Subli game book is available for every visitor. Be sure to get there early, because once they're gone, they're gone!

Will we see you at our booth at Horse Event in September?

From young horse to Grand Prix: How Diederik van Silfhout trains his horses with Subli

At Stal van Silfhout in Lunteren, everything revolves around training horses and riders to the highest level. International Grand Prix rider Diederik van Silfhout combines elite competition with the business of selling dressage horses. Every day, he works with horses of various ages and levels—from young talents to experienced competition horses. To provide these horses with the best possible care, the foundation at the stable must be solid. Nutrition plays a key role in this. 

Horse feed that suits the conditions in the stable

Subli has been fed at Stal van Silfhout for so long that Diederik doesn’t really know any different. ‘The great thing is that we hardly have to make any adjustments. Most horses do just fine on the basic feed. We only add something if a horse really gives us a reason to.” Together with Subli, a custom blend has been developed that complements the forage at the stable and meets the horses’ needs: a performance chunk high in protein.

In the past, we had to feed some horses a lot of pellets to provide them with everything they needed. We took a closer look at this and adjusted the formulation: more digestible protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals. As a result, the horses now get everything they need without us having to feed them large amounts.

Diederik on his experience with Subli

In this video, he briefly explains why the feed is such a good fit for his horses and his approach to training.

 

High-energy horse feed for peak performance

While some riders are cautious about high-energy feed, Diederik sees it differently. “We have a lot of spirited horses here, and I love that. Too much energy is rarely a problem for me: I’d rather have a horse that’s eager to work than one you have to coax into working. It’s all about balance. A sport horse needs enough energy to perform at the highest level, but it also needs to stay in good condition. The feed has to support what a horse demands of itself every day.”

A completely different horse in two months

Diederik and his wife Cindy notice the biggest differences in new horses that arrive at the stable. “Almost every horse that comes here looks completely different after a month or two. There are even owners who walk right past their horses because they’ve changed so much. They develop more muscle, become fuller-bodied, and gain a shinier coat and more presence. It’s as if the body is given the chance to develop to its full potential.”

Still, the team doesn’t just follow a set schedule; above all, they focus on the horse itself. “We feed based on our instincts: you can tell if a horse could stand to gain a little weight, needs more energy, or is already perfectly balanced. You can feel that right away while riding, too. That’s how we tailor the feed ration to each horse’s individual needs.”

A solid foundation—just fill in the gaps where necessary

The foundation remains the same for virtually all horses: high-quality performance pellets. Supplements are only added when there is a clear reason to do so. “A horse with poor hooves gets a hoof supplement; a hot-blooded horse gets some magnesium. During demanding competitions or hot days, we add electrolytes, a slobber mix, or extra muscle support. But we don’t just throw everything into the feed as a matter of course: if the foundation is solid, there’s no need for that.” Even around competitions, very little changes. “Horses perform best when you don’t constantly make major changes. We only make adjustments under special circumstances.”

Subli's kibble proves itself day after day

Subli’s pellets offer even more benefits, because virtually all horses eat the feed well: “We almost never have horses that are poor eaters, and that’s especially important during intensive training and competitions.” After years of using the same feed, we have a high level of confidence in it. “We see the results every day—not just with our own horses, but also with the horses that come here for training or for sale. That constantly reaffirms to us that we’re on the right track.”

Diederik van Silfhout's Top Tip

Diederik’s advice to other horse owners is clear: “Take a good look at your horse and don’t just change everything on a whim. A good diet starts with a strong foundation. From there, you can fine-tune what each horse really needs.”

Manure, Permits, and Subsidies for Horse Owners

At Subli, we’re happy to help horse owners with expertise that goes beyond nutrition alone. After all, sound business management is just as important as healthy horses. Issues such as manure regulations, permits, and subsidies can also affect your business. That’s why, for these types of issues, we work together with the specialists at AR Business Development. In this article, we'll outline the most important points to consider for you.

As a horse owner, when do you have to comply with manure regulations?

Many horse owners believe that manure regulations apply only to dairy or crop farms. However, horse owners may also be subject to these regulations. Horse owners who operate on a commercial basis and own at least 3 hectares of agricultural land, or who bring in and/or produce manure containing 350 kg or more of nitrogen (which corresponds to approximately 5 adult horses), are required to maintain comprehensive manure records.

Manure Accounting

The requirements for manure record-keeping for horse owners are becoming increasingly extensive.

1. Fertilization Plan

The fertilization plan must be prepared annually by February 15 and covers planned fertilization based on crop needs (=mandatory portion). It is highly recommended (though not mandatory) to also check that same plan against the statutory application standards. You do not need to submit the fertilization plan, but you must keep it on file in your business records for 5 years.

2. Additional Farmer Information (AGL)

Every year, all farmers—including horse owners—must submit data for the previous calendar year to RVO by January 31 at the latest. This includes, among other things, the ending inventory of fertilizers as of December 31. Fertilizer stocks must be reported by fertilizer code in metric tons and in kilograms of nitrogen and phosphate. The best available data must be used to determine these concentrations. This information enables RVO to verify in a timely manner whether fertilizer regulations are being complied with.

Less risk, more certainty

Exceeding manure standards can result in hefty fines. As a result, more and more horse owners are choosing to outsource their manure record-keeping to specialists, such as AR Bedrijfsontwikkeling. They draw up a comprehensive manure management plan that allows you to demonstrate compliance with all applicable rules and standards. This plan is updated throughout the year and fully finalized at year-end—providing a valuable foundation for an accurate AGL report. This way, you reduce the risk of errors or fines, take full advantage of tax and regulatory benefits, and free up time for what really matters: your horses and your business.

Real-World Examples

In practice, there are various situations that require extra care to prevent exceeding manure standards—and thus incurring manure fines.

Two common examples:

• Horses that are regularly turned out outdoors (in a pasture or paddock), which means that some of the manure remains on the farm.
• Companies that use cattle manure, as this can be financially attractive.

With proper manure record-keeping, you can take advantage of such situations and avoid risks. In addition, when submitting the Farmer’s Supplementary Data (AGL), you’ll have a complete and accurate overview.

Smart Choices in Pasture Fertilization

For farms with pastureland, it can be financially beneficial to remove horse manure and bring in cattle slurry instead. Local cattle farmers often pay for this, and it also helps create fertile soil and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. Please note: these decisions must always comply with legal requirements. An accurate calculation is therefore essential. If you are drawing up a fertilization plan, it is wise to have the potential options and benefits calculated right away.

Fines and Consequences for Improper Record-Keeping

The RVO's penalty policy is strict:

• €100 for late delivery
• €200 for incomplete delivery
• €300 for incorrect or false information
• €300 for failure to deliver at all

In addition, exceeding the usage standards for nitrogen and phosphate can result in substantial fines ranging from €410 to €570 per horse. Failure to comply with these rules may also affect the payment of CAP subsidies.

To avoid problems and take full advantage of financial benefits, it is therefore wise to have your manure records properly managed—for example, by the specialists at AR Business Development.

Combined Declaration

Do you own horses or farmland? If so, there’s a good chance you’re required to file the Combined Declaration. This is an annual summary report submitted to RVO in which you report, among other things, the registration of land and the number of animals. You can also use this form to apply for agricultural subsidies or an expanded phosphate application allowance. Much of this information is also required for manure record-keeping. The Combined Declaration must be completed each year between March 1 and May 15 via the RVO website. You are required to keep the information up to date throughout the year.

CAP Subsidy: Financial Incentives for Sustainable Management

Through the Combined Declaration, you can also apply for the so-called CAP subsidy—the European agricultural subsidy. Many horse owners fall under the category of “active farmer” and are therefore eligible for this program. The subsidy consists of a base payment of approximately €200 per hectare per year (base year 2025). By investing in eco-friendly activities, such as herb-rich or long-term grassland, hedgerows, or small woodlands, this amount can rise to as much as €400 per hectare per year. This rewards sustainable management.

Environmental Act: What Does This Mean for Your Horse Farm?

Horse owners are also affected by the Environment Act. This law consolidates regulations on the environment, land use planning (formerly zoning plans), and nature conservation, including nitrogen. The exact requirements depend on the type of operation.
For example, a breeding operation with more than 25 horses or ponies is subject to different environmental regulations than a boarding stable, riding school, or a small-scale horse farm with fewer animals. Are you planning to expand or make changes to your business? Do you need a permit or have to file a notification? Or is the bank asking about your permit status when applying for financing? The specialists at AR Business Development can help you with expert advice and guidance on the correct procedures.

Consulting Services through AR Business Development

As a horse owner, you’re facing an increasing number of regulations. Are you unsure which requirements apply to your business, or would you like to know what grant opportunities are available? The specialists at AR Business Development We’re happy to work with you to find the right solution. That way, you can be sure you’re complying with current regulations and taking full advantage of the opportunities that are right for your business. Would you like more information? Please contact your Subli feed advisor or reach out directly to AR Business Development at 0317-499500 or info@ar-bedrijfsontwikkeling.nl.

So Legend and Rituals De La Fazenda Win the Subli Competition in Nisse

The second qualifying competition of the Subli Competition for Young Dressage Horses was held on Wednesday, July 29, in the beautiful setting of Jumpin’ de Weel in Nisse. The judges awarded three horses scores above 80. Among the five-year-olds, Rituals De La Fazenda (by Magnum De La Fazenda) stood out. Riden by Thalia Rockx, the mare scored 82.80. The best four-year-old, with a score of 83.60, was So Legend (by So Perfect), ridden by Annemijn Boogaard.

So Legend and Annemijn Boogaard Take the Win in the Four-Year-Olds Division

In the four-year-old class, both So Legend (by So Perfect), ridden by Annemijn Boogaard, and Lord Siffredi (by Las Vegas), ridden by Febe van Zwambagt, scored above 80. With a score of 83.60, So Legend took the win, while Lord Siffredi finished second with 80.40. Jeanine Nieuwenhuis rode So Special (by Total McLaren) to third place with a score of 78.40.

Jury Praises the Top Four-Year-Olds

“So Legend, owned by Annemijn, is such a well-rounded horse. He has tremendous natural balance and excellent ability to change gaits—he’s truly captivating. He exuded such ease, and in terms of riding, Annemijn really stood out. Febe also has an appealing horse; Lord Siffredi is very impressive and particularly stands out with his canter and posture. He also has a good trot, though he could be a bit more relaxed at a walk. In that regard, Febe was a bit unlucky that her stallion was whinnying and looking around a bit. But in terms of the test, she was able to ride through it very well. It was incredibly impressive,” continues Monique Peutz.

Rituals De La Fazenda and Thalia Rockx Win in the Five-Year-Old Dressage Horse Class

In the five-year-old division, Rituals De La Fazenda repeated her victory. Ridden by Thalia Rockx, the mare had also won the First tryout in Delft, after she appeared in the Final at Jumping Amsterdam finished in a strong second place. The daughter of Magnum De La Fazenda, who has also been selected for the World Championships for Young Dressage Horses in Verden, was the only horse in this age category to score above 80. Also taking second place was a horse that competed in the final for four-year-olds in Amsterdam: Rufus Van ’T Houtsche (by Jameson RS2). Ridden by Lotje Schoots, he scored 77.40 in Nisse. Close behind in third place was Rhapsody NB (by Just Wimphof), ridden by Naomi Boogaard, with a score of 76.80.

Jury Sees a Lot of Quality Among the Five-Year-Olds

“Thalia has an impressive horse with a beautiful stride. Whether walking, trotting, or cantering, Rituals De La Fazenda displays great tact and balance. And especially in the canter, it was clear that this horse has a great deal of talent for collection,” says Monique Peutz, who served on the judging panel alongside Suzanne Schattorie. “Rituals De La Fazenda was also presented beautifully: open in the contact and with a consistent gait. She really stood out. This horse is already very advanced for a five-year-old in a positive way.”.

Lotje’s Rufus Van ’T Houtsche is another horse that particularly stood out in the canter, where he showed plenty of reach and drive. His trot was also good, though he could have gained just a little more ground there. Rufus was also beautifully presented with a very consistent gait and moved on his own feet,” continues Peutz, who also had high praise for Rhapsody NB, who placed third. “A very well-rounded horse with three very correct gaits, presented by Naomi in a natural and friendly manner. We found it a delightful and appealing performance. If Rhapsody can gain a bit more strength, her scores will certainly go even higher.”

Promising young horses at the wonderful show in Nisse

Peutz is full of praise for the potential of the young horses. “The top four or five are truly promising horses for the future. That really makes you happy.” The judge also had high praise for the multi-day competition Jumpin’ de Weel, which hosted the Subli Competition. “It’s a wonderful competition and superbly organized, with extra fans and watering stations for the horses. It has the allure and prestige of an international competition.”

Subli Competition Results, Nisse, July 29, 2026

Results four-year-old dressage horses

1. Annemijn Boogaard, So Legend (by So Perfect) 83.60
2. Febe van Zwambagt, Lord Siffredi (by Las Vegas) 80.40
3. Jeanine Nieuwenhuis, So Special (by Total McLaren) 78.40

Results of five-year-old dressage horses

1. Thalia Rockx, Rituals De La Fazenda (by Magnum De La Fazenda) 82.80
2. Lotje Schoots, Rufus Van ’T Houtsche (by Jameson RS2) 77.40
3. Naomi Boogaard, Rhapsody NB (by Just Wimphof) 76.80

The next qualifying competition of the Subli Competition for Young Dressage Horses will take place on Saturday, August 29, in Tolbert. For the complete schedule and the current standings of the Subli Competition, visit the Subli Competition page.

Want to stay up to date on all the developments surrounding the Subli Competition? Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and sign up for our newsletter.

Sensation Gold and Rituals De La Fazenda open new season Subli Competition with victory

At the first selection competition of the Subli Competition for Young Dressage Horses in Delft, four horses scored above 80. Winner in the four-year-olds was the stallion Sensation Gold (by Ferguson), who ran to 84.20 under Cynthia Eggenkamp. With 83.20, the mare Rituals De La Fazenda (by Magnum De La Fazenda), presented by Thalia Rockx, was the best in the five-year-olds.

At the beautiful entourage of Concours Delft, the four-year-olds were judged Tuesday, May 26, by Jeff Heijstek and Ruud Schaeffer. They gave three scores above 80, with both Ferguson son Sensation Gold and Stromae (by Dynamic Dream) achieving exactly the same score of 84.20. First place was for the KWPN-approved stallion Sensation Gold with Cynthia Eggenkamp. Stromae, presented by Robert-Jan de Visser, came in second and under Jeanine Nieuwenhuis So Special (by Total McLaren) ran to third place with 82.80.

Four-year-olds

“Sensation Gold is a big horse with a very nice and stable self carriage, a quiet touch and who already goes through the track very carried. It was so good that you almost forget that he is only four years old. He was also presented very correctly by Cynthia,” said judge Jeff Heijstek. “Stromae by Robert-Jan is also a big horse that was also presented very correctly. The horses that were at the top can already switch very well and so was So Special, Jeanine's horse. He took off very nicely and also came back nicely, only the trot could be a little more carried.”

Many nice to very good horses

In the four-year-olds, the judges received 24 horses in the lane. “Overall, we saw a lot of nice to very good horses. From the front group we could see that they were for each other. At the middle and bottom we could see that the self-carriage and quiet bridle were still difficult, that they are still green in that. Switching gears and being on their own made the difference of the leading group. Other than that, we saw quite a few trials that didn't make a lot of sense. For example just before the jury box small turns, and that several times, that is not useful.”

Five-year-olds

Due to warm weather, the class for five-year-olds was moved to a day later, Wednesday, May 27. This group of seven horses was judged by Janine van Twist and Jolanda Glimmerveen. They gave by far the most points to the mare Rituals De La Fazenda, presented by Thalia Rockx, who also performed strongly last year in the Subli Competition. Then there was victory in the semi-finals and second place in the final at Jumping Amsterdam. With 83.20 the combination has now also started the new season strongly. Stephanie Bezemer rode Rosie Mae K (by Fontaine TN) with 74.00 to second place, followed by Riovicto S (by Victorio Grande) under the saddle of Esmee Boers with 71.40.

“Rituals De La Fazenda is a very nice horse and has seen quite a lot already. The horse is experienced and so is Thalia. They stood head and shoulders above the rest and Thalia knows how to present the mare very nicely, with the highlight being the trot section, in which Rituals had a lot of power and go,” Janine van Twist says. “Stephanie's Rosie Mae is a very complete horse and the finishing level is what you want in a test like this. The ability to switch could perhaps be a little more, and if you compare it to Thalia's horse, Rosie Mae could go through the lane with a little more expression.”

Results Subli Competition Delft, May 26 and 27, 2026

Results four-year-old dressage horses

1. Cynthia Eggenkamp, Sensation Gold (by Ferguson) - 84.20 %
2. Robert-Jan de Visser, Stromae (by Dynamic Dream) - 84.20 %
3. Jeanine Nieuwenhuis, So Special (by Total McLaren) - 82.80 %

 

Results of five-year-old dressage horses

1. Thalia Rockx, Rituals De La Fazenda (by Magnum De La Fazenda) - 83.20%
2. Stephanie Bezemer, Rosie Mae K (by Fontaine TN) - 74.00%
3. Esmee Boers, Riovicto S (by Victorio Grande) - 71.40%

 

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Knowledge meeting during Jumping Tolboom: how does the horse industry stay future-proof?

 

During Jumping Tolboom, horse lovers, entrepreneurs and sector representatives came together for a knowledge meeting of AR Paard. AR Paard includes the brands Subli, Masters, Voermeesters and Vente Paardenvoeding.
One key question was central: how do we ensure that the horse industry remains socially supported and accessible in the future?

Talking together about the future of horses

The meeting took place at Stal Groenendaal in Bunschoten-Spakenburg. Johan Schuttert, commercial director of AR Paard, took the attendees through current developments within the horse sector. With interactive propositions, open discussions arose about topics such as animal welfare, social acceptance, youth and the future of equestrian sports.

Those very conversations made it clear how much commitment there is within the industry. There were different opinions, but also many similarities. One thing was certain for almost everyone: the horse industry will have to continue to develop and respond to changes in society.

Youth is indispensable for the future

An important theme during the meeting was the role of youth. Because without new generations of horse lovers, there is no future-proof horse industry.

Many attendees saw opportunities, but at the same time named challenges. For example, in some places it is becoming more difficult for children to be introduced to horses and equestrian sports at a young age. Yet interest remains high. Riding stables often have waiting lists and initiatives to involve youth appear to be successful.

This was also confirmed by Cissy Schuring of Limburg Paardensport. She explained how their organization actively uses school programs, knowledge events and activities to introduce children and new target groups to horses.

Animal welfare and social acceptance

Animal welfare was also discussed in detail. During her presentation, Mieke Theunissen of the Horse Sector Council addressed topics such as sustainability, supervision and social acceptance.

According to her, it is becoming increasingly important as a sector to look ahead and take responsibility. Not only within the barn or sport, but also towards society. Transparency, knowledge sharing and openness play a major role in this.

Continuing to see opportunities

Despite all the challenges, a mostly positive atmosphere prevailed during the afternoon. The horse industry is facing changes, but there are also plenty of opportunities. Especially if entrepreneurs, associations and horse lovers continue to work together to create a healthy and future-proof sector.

So an afternoon full of conversations, insights and commitment. Exactly as you would expect from people with a heart for horses.

 

 

 

Subli Diet Mix - much more than a diet product

Subli Diet Mix is ideally suited to help overweight ponies (and, of course, horses) lose weight. This diet feed is low in sugar and starch because it contains no grains, grain products or molasses, but it does contain the oh-so-important vitamins. Subli Diet Mix was developed to help horses lose weight in a healthy way. However, what many people do not know: due to its special composition, it is Subli Diet Mix multi-purpose.

Any horse can become overweight

Thinking about obesity in horses, many horse lovers get one of those fat Shetland ponies in mind. But there are more breeds that easily become one size overweight; think Fjords, Haflingers, Tinkers, Friesians and Icelanders. These are "frugal" breeds that have efficient digestion and thus can get by on less nutrition. If you feed these horses like higher bloodstock, they become overweight faster. With these horses, conformation and disposition are partly to blame for the fact that they easily gain a few pounds, but many warmbloods are also a touch on the fat side these days. It seems like the image that owners or handlers have of an average horse's body condition is shifting a bit. If you look at how we keep horses today - we want to take the best care of them, keep them partially stabled and like to give them something tasty - it is fair to say that many horses are at risk of becoming overweight. In the winter when they are stabled a lot, but certainly also in the spring when the grass starts to grow. In any case, it is extremely unwise and even life-threatening to leave a horse on a pasture of fresh grass for too long. Build up grazing slowly and make sure that your horse cannot graze indefinitely.

How can you make a fat horse lose weight?

Simply giving less feed is not good for your horse, but it is also not always healthy. Especially horses and ponies that don't have to do much work don't need much energy, but they do need protein. Protein is necessary to build muscle. If a horse has too little protein in its ration, it will lose muscle mass. That is why it is, also if your horse needs to lose weight, important to give him good nutrition. With Subli Diet Mix, your horse can have that meal every day that makes him so happy, but he does not get too much energy and enough protein to maintain his muscles. Moreover, it contains vitamins; all horses and ponies need vitamins for a good resistance. So you can make an important contribution to a healthy weight of your horse by giving him good nutrition.

"Let food be your medicine"

"Let food be your medicine and your medicine be your food." This statement by Hippocrates - the founder of modern medicine - has been a truth like a ... horse for some 2,500 years. Especially when you are sick, you need good nutrition, which can help you get back on your feet. This is just as true for horses as it is for humans. Osteoarthritis, for example, is an extremely painful and life-threatening condition that occurs regularly in, among others, that fat Shetlander we mentioned earlier in this story. But basically any horse can be affected by it. A major cause of laminitis is fructans; substances found in grass (and thus hay). Fructane-rich roughage can exacerbate the metabolic problems that can cause laminitis. Therefore, Subli Diet Mix - which contains hardly any sugar and starch - can provide valuable support for horses with laminitis.

Disease support

Subli Diet Mix can also be used in horses with, for example, muscle paralysis, insulin resistance, PPID (Cushing's disease) and EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome). EMS is a collective term for a number of diseases, including insulin resistance, obesity, fat deposits in specific locations and laminitis. We also see localized fat deposits, IR and laminitis in horses with PPID. Horses with EMS react more violently to protein. These horses need adequate protein intake, but not excess. Protein must also be of high quality. Alfalfa in Subli Diet Mix is an example of high-quality protein.

For horses with insulin resistance (and laminitis), it is important to avoid grains and concentrates. Subli Diet Mix does not contain grains and grain by-products. It is also recommended for these horses to limit grazing and feed coarse (stalky) hay. This limits any fructan intake and energy intake (in connection with obesity). Subli Diet Mix, as a high-fiber muesli, is a good addition to the coarse-stemmed hay for these horses.

What if your horse just needs to get fatter?

If a horse is too thin and needs to regain some weight, you can feed him with Subli Diet Mix. The proteins and vitamins in this diet feed provide healthy support for horses that could use a little extra help. A horse can be too thin because he is not getting enough feed, but also because of poor quality feed or a shortage of minerals, vitamins and trace elements. Poor teeth, worms and/or parasites may be another cause. Finally, the horse may consume more energy due to heavy labor, its age (young animals in growth) or the stage of life it is in (think of a lactating mare or a stallion at stud) than it can take in with its feed. Generally speaking, if a horse is sick, his body needs energy to recover. Then Subli Diet Mix can be a supplement to the ration. Because of the building blocks (amino acids from proteins) and minerals, vitamins and trace elements. Therefore, in addition to grazing, Subli Diet Mix would be a great fit for a horse that just needs to gain some weight.

Nutrition for horses with mandatory box rest

If you give a lean horse only Subli Diet Mix in addition to roughage, for example, there is a chance that he will lack some energy. But a horse that has to rest in the box with a tendon injury, for example, will certainly benefit from Dieetmix. Because this feed is low in energy, but does provide high-quality protein and contains enough vitamins, minerals and trace elements to support recovery. You don't want to feed such a horse too high in energy, because then - after several weeks of mandatory stall rest - he may find himself over the box wall.

Super-healthy sports ration

Do you have a horse that does a lot of work? To horses that are competing in sports or that can be taken out several times a week for a long ride under saddle or in front of a carriage, you can give Subli Diet Mix together with linseed oil or linseed meal. Subli Omega 369. This provides extra energy and so you put together a super healthy sports ration that gives your horse energy, protein and vitamins.

Want to know more or get customized nutritional advice?

Is your horse too fat or just too skinny? Are you looking for more information about Subli Diet Mix or any of our other products, or would you like to nutritional advice from one of our specialists? If so, please contact us without obligation at info@subli.nl or call to 0317-499595.

Subli Competition for Young Dressage Horses 2026/2027 gets underway

The Subli Competition for Young Dressage Horses is starting again. On May 26 the first selection competition is scheduled at Manege de Prinsenstad in Delft. In this leading competition four- and five-year-old dressage horses get the chance to compete with their peers and show their talent. The competition concludes with the final at the top show. Jumping Amsterdam.

Six selection competitions throughout the Netherlands

The Subli Competition has six selection competitions this season, spread over the outdoor and indoor seasons. This is followed by the semi-finals, after which the best young dressage horses in each age group go on to the finals. All competitions are held at top locations with high-quality sandy surfaces. The Subli Competition is open to horses of all studbooks.

Calendar Subli Competition 2026/2027

The competitions take place at various locations in the Netherlands:

• May 26 - Prinsenstad Delft
• July 29 - Nisse
• Aug. 29 - Tolbert
• September 5-6 - Heeswijk
• October 2 - Varsseveld
• November 7 - Berkel-Enschot
• Semifinals - Dec. 13 - Bunschoten Stal Groenendaal
• Final - Jan. 28, 2027 - Jumping Amsterdam

Route to the semifinals and finals

Horses can qualify for the semifinals of the Subli Competition through selection competitions.

• A horse must compete a minimum of two selection competitions to qualify for the semifinals.
• A maximum of three selection races may be ridden per horse.
• For placement in the semifinals, the highest scores will count.

The best fifteen horses per age category are invited to the semi-finals in December. The top five of these qualify for the final, which is traditionally held at Jumping Amsterdam.

More information about the Subli Competition

Want more information about the Subli Competition for Young Dressage Horses, the tests or the rules? Check out all the information and frequently asked questions on the Subli Competition page.

Spring grass and horses: risks, laminitis and safe grazing

The first sunshine, longer days and a pasture turning green again. For many horse lovers, spring feels like a fresh start. Seeing your horse go outside again is enjoyment. But especially during this period, grazing requires extra attention. Because no matter how beautiful the grass looks: spring grass can have a significant impact on your horse's health.

Why spring grass is not always ‘innocent’

In spring, grass grows rapidly. In the process, under the influence of sunlight, it stores a lot of sugars (fructans). Especially after sunny days with cold nights, these levels can rise considerably. Your horse then gets a lot of sugars in a short period of time. And that is exactly where the risk lies.

Not every horse can handle that amount well. Consider:

• ponies and austere breeds
• overweight horses
• horses that have had previous health problems

Especially in this group, spring grass can cause problems more quickly.

Is spring grass dangerous for horses?

Yes, mainly because of the high sugar content (fructans). Especially in sensitive horses, this can lead to laminitis. Therefore, building up slowly is essential.

Osteoarthritis: a risk you need to take seriously

Too much sugar can lead to laminitis. A painful condition in which the hoof structure weakens. You want to get ahead of that. Not only because it is intense for your horse, but also because it can have long-term consequences. Good management in the spring makes all the difference in this.

Here's how to tackle grazing wisely

A horse doesn't have to stay indoors to stay healthy. But how you approach it does determine the difference.

A few practical points of interest:

• Build up grazing slowly
  Start with short moments and expand step by step.
• Keep a sharp eye on the weight
  A few extra pounds seems little, but it does make a difference.
• Know your horse
  Some horses can have more than others. Austere breeds often need less than you think.
• Consciously choose your grazing time
  After sunny days with cold nights, sugar levels tend to be highest.
• Limit intake where appropriate
  For example, with a grazing mask or by reducing grazing time.

The overall picture: feed and grazing in balance

What your horse ingests in the pasture directly affects the total ration. And that's where things often go wrong. You can't see exactly what your horse is ingesting in terms of sugars and energy. As a result, you quickly feed too much without noticing.

This is precisely why it is important to:

• adjust concentrates to grazing conditions
• Looking critically at energy intake
• looking at the ration as a whole

Because only then will you really keep your horse balanced.

In doubt about your horse's ration?

Want to be sure you're in the right place? Then ask for a personal feeding advice to. Then together we look at your situation in the barn and pasture and tailor the ration exactly to that.

View the current fructan index in your area

The fructan index is compiled using current weather information. This makes it easy to see if there is a risk of high fructan levels, allowing you to adjust grazing time and duration. Read more about this on the website of PaardNatuurlijk.nl.

 

Restoring horse pasture in spring: overseeding or re-seeding?

Spring not only brings the grass back, but it also begins the new grazing season for your horses. A good time to take a critical look at your horse pasture. The better the turf, the better your horses can graze and the more stable their rations will remain.

Checking the quality of your horse pasture in the spring

In the spring, the grass comes back up. For horse owners, that's the time to take a good look at the horse pasture. The better the turf, the better your horses can graze and the more stable the ration remains.

After winter, the quality of grasslands may have changed considerably. Intensive grazing, puddling or mouse damage can create bare patches. Especially in relatively dry winters, mice often get the chance to dig holes and eat the roots of the grass. The result: gaps in the turf.

If you leave those spots, they are often quickly filled in by weeds or less desirable grasses. This not only reduces the yield of the grassland, but also the quality of forage for your horses.

Watch for roughage in spring

A grass that often comes up quickly in spring is rough legume. This grass grows at temperatures as low as about 5°C and can therefore quickly take over bare spots.

For horse pastures, roughage is less suitable. Namely, it has:

• a lower dry matter yield (20-25% less than ryegrass)
• a shallow root system that causes it to dry out more quickly
• a lower feed value

You can often recognize rough legume by the typical white feet on the underside of the plant.

Restoring bare spots in grassland

By taking action early in the spring, you will prevent the quality of your horse pasture from deteriorating. Depending on the condition of the plot, you can overseed or re-seed. March-April is an appropriate time for this.

A practical guideline:

• Over 80% good grasses. Supplemental sow small open areas at about 15-20 kg per hectare
• 60-80% good grasses. Overseeding the field at 25-30 kg per hectare
• Less than 60% good grasses. If there is a lot of breeding or structural damage from mice, for example, re-seeding or rotation with corn is often the best choice.

Grass mixtures for a healthy horse pasture

Not every grass is equally suitable for horses. Mixtures have been developed for horse pastures that take into account the grazing behavior and health of horses.

Horse Master (Barenbrug)

This mixture consists of textured and palatable grasses and forms a strong, dense turf. Thanks to RPR technology, the grass can better withstand intensive treading and trampling. The low growing point makes the mixture suitable for short grazing.

HorseMax Grazing (DLF).

This blend focuses specifically on horse welfare. It contains grasses with moderate protein and sugar content, making it a good fit in a balanced ration. Its low growth point makes it suitable for pastures that are short grazed.

HorseMax Hayes (DLF)

This mixture contains several textured grasses, making it ideal for extracting hay for horses. It combines good palatability with a high dry matter yield.

All three mixtures are low in fructan. This is important because grass can produce extra fructan in spring when there is a lot of sun and cold nights. Fructan is a type of sugar that horses do not digest as well. Excessive intake can increase the risk of laminitis.

Weed control in horse pastures

In addition to bare spots, weeds can also play a role in the quality of your horse pasture. The approach depends primarily on the amount of weeds.

With limited weed pressure
Mechanical control, such as cradle harrows, may be sufficient.

When there are a lot of weeds
Chemical control can be an effective solution.

Some points of interest:

• Wall can be controlled early in spring with agents that work even at low temperatures.
• Culture is usually more effectively controlled later in the growing season.
• After spraying, wait at least a week before re-seeding or overseeding.

A good horse pasture begins with attention

A healthy horse pasture is the foundation of your horse's ration. By taking a good look at your pasture in the spring and making timely adjustments, you can avoid problems later in the season. In doubt about the condition of your horse pasture or the best approach for your plot? Subli's specialists will be happy to look at it with you. We work closely with the grassland specialists from our sister company AR Plant B.V., so you get advice that fits both your horses and your turf.

McMary and Perfect Rhythm win finals Subli Competition

On Thursday, January 22, the all-decisive final of the Subli Competition for Young Dressage Horses was held at Jumping Amsterdam. In the impressive arena the best 4- and 5-year-old dressage horses, together with their riders, competed against each other for the titles. In the four-year-olds, McMary, ridden by Phoebe Peters, took the win. The victory in the five-year-old horses was for Perfect Rhythm and Kim Noordijk.

McMary and Phoebe Peters win four-year-olds Subli Competition

“As a little girl, you only dream of riding at such an amazing competition. It's absolutely amazing and a great honor to be able to ride here myself,” said Phoebe Peters after her victory with McMary. The imposing arena of Jumping Amsterdam provided an impressive backdrop for the young combination, but thanks to the strong bond of trust between them, the test remained convincing. “McMary is a great horse and always gives 110%,” he said.” adds Peters. With a score of 87,2% she stayed ahead of the competition. Thalia Rockx finished in second place with Rituals de la Fazenda (86,2%). Third place was for Kim Alting and Daxx (85,2%).

Perfect Rhythm and Kim Noordijk win convincingly in the five-year-olds

In the five-year-old dressage horses, the victory was convincing for Kim Noordijk and Perfect Rhythm. The combination showed a strong test and was promised a top score of 89.4%. In second place was Dinja van Liere and Succession with 82.4%. And behind them followed Margriet Simonse and Hexagon's Popeye with 82,2%.

Final Subli Competition for Young Dressage Horses 2025/2026

Results four-year-old dressage horses

1. Phoebe Peters, McMary (v. McLaren) - 87.2%
2. Thalia Rockx, Rituals de la Fazenda (by Magnum de la Fazenda) - 86.2%
3. Kim Alting, Daxx (by Dynamic Dream) - 85.4%
4. Lotje Schoots, Rufus van ’t Houtsche (v. Jameson RS2) - 80.2%
5. Kim Noordijk, Razzmatazz (by Everdale) - 79.0%

Results of five-year-old dressage horses

1. Kim Noordijk, Perfect Rhythm (by Negro) - 89.4%
2. Dinja van Liere, Succession (v. Secret) - 82.4%
3. Margriet Simonse, Hexagon's Popeye (by Double Dutch) - 82.2%
4. Mascha van Es, Pino (by Blue Hors Farrell) - 78.6%
5. Bart Veeze, Roman Empire (by Romanov) - 78.0%

The season of the Subli Competition showed once again how much talent there is in young dressage. We congratulate all participants on their achievements and look forward with great enthusiasm to the next season. Stay up to date on everything surrounding the Subli Competition? Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and sign up for our newsletter.