Maikel van der Vleuten’s former top mare VDL Groep Sapphire B (Mr. Blue x Grand Veneur) has passed away at the age of 21. 

VDL Groep Sapphire B was retired from the sport five years ago, after a fantastic career with van der Vleuten. The mare won countless of classes during her career; among her biggest victories was the Grand Prix in Maastricht in 2013 as well as in 2014 and the World Cup at Olympia in 2013. Other wins were recorded at venues such as Frankfurt, Madrid, Oldenburg, Treffen and Valkenswaard – to mention some. 

VDL Groep Sapphire’s legacy lives on through her daughter VDL Groep Gold Lady – in foal to Verdi TN.

Our thoughts go out to all those close to this special mare.