Earlier this year, Suus Kuyten introduced a new auction concept with SK Favorite, where the focus is not on the size of the collection, but on the quality of a single auction lot. The April edition takes shape with Russel, a three-year-old stallion who stands out for his scope and interesting pedigree. Sired by the young 1.60m Grand Prix stallion Riesling van de Gaathoeve.

“I first saw him at a colleague’s stable in Belgium. The way he jumps, his scope and his character immediately caught my attention”, Suus Kuyten explains. The three-year-old Russel is a son of Riesling van de Gaathoeve, who is already making his mark at the highest level at just nine years old. In recent weeks, he finished second in the 4* 1.60m Grand Prix of Wellington and delivered two clear rounds in the 1.55m Grand Prix at CSI4* Ocala, resulting in a sixth-place finish with Mckayla Langmeier. As part of one of his first crops, Russel reflects both the ability and mindset his sire is currently demonstrating in sport.

Through Kannan in the second generation, this pedigree is further strengthened with a proven foundation towards the highest level. Kannan is widely regarded as one of the most influential sires in showjumping, with Olympic champion Nino des Buissonnets among his offspring, alongside top horses such as Quabri de L’Isle and Molly Malone V.

The dam line is French-oriented and forms a solid base. Granddam Pomona van de Hacienda competed at 1.35m level and brings together the blood of Grand Prix stallions Chapman Rouge and Quito de Baussy. Russel is therefore rooted in a line that has proven its value in both sport and breeding.

“If it carries my name, it truly has to be my favorite,” says Kuyten. “That means I only offer what I fully stand behind.” With SK Favorite, Kuyten consciously opts for a different approach. No extensive collection, but full attention on one carefully selected horse. “The market has changed. Buyers orient themselves all year round. With this concept, I can stay connected to that demand, without compromising on exclusivity.”

The first SK Favorite edition, an embryo from the Fragance de Chalus line, was sold for €28,000 to an American rider. The foal, of which the gender was not yet known at the time, has since been born and turned out to be a filly. With Russel, Kuyten continues the concept with a young stallion that fits within the same philosophy: carefully selected, with both pedigree and potential in mind.

From today, photos and videos are available on the auction platform of Suus Kuyten Auctions. Bidding is open and the auction closes on Monday evening, April 6, from 20:00. Russel can be viewed at home. You’ll find all veterinary info on the website.

More information and registration via www.suuskuytenauctions.com. Or call/whatsapp Suus Kuyten: 0031655685404