Breeding and sport united at SWB Trophy

"It was an amazing feeling today. I haven’t competed much lately, so just being here was a big deal for me. Winning feels incredible," says Elin Jansson. 

She describes Blue Sky as an exceptionally intelligent horse: "He learns everything on the first try. As long as I keep him relaxed, everything works well. I like a bit of nerve in horses." The next goal is for Blue Sky to be used for breeding and reach a premium level at this year’s performance test. 

Sandra Kåregren, the stallion’s breeder, has always seen his potential: "He has always been a friendly and intelligent horse, easy to handle with both horses and people. I have always felt in my heart that he is a star." 

Von Chap Son’s breeder, Haydee Feldborg Nielsen, expressed her joy after securing second place: "Of course, I knew he was a star—just kidding! As a breeder, you always hope, but it’s hard to know. I bought his mother while she was pregnant with Von Chap Son, and that was the entire reason for the purchase. He has been sold to Eva and Björn Lundgren, and I hope that Jüri Sokolovski will continue to ride him. I believe they have a bright future together." 

Third-placed Elton F’s breeder, Gunnel Frölin, was beaming at the press conference after the awards ceremony: "I am a small breeder who has spent a lot of time in Germany and the Netherlands studying bloodlines—I’ve been passionate about this since the ’90s. I saw Burggraf jump, and I have never seen anything better. I loved the pedigree of Elton’s mother, and when I saw Crusader Ice at Lisen’s Grevlunda, I felt it could be a great match—calm and steady from Crusader Ice, who jumps 1.60m in the USA, and fiery and energetic from Heartbreaker." 

A Unique Competition for Young Horses 

The competition also impressed Hyperion sponsor Vicky Castegren: "The quality of the horses was very high, and it’s amazing to see their development." 

It is uncommon for young horses to compete in arenas like Scandinavium. 

"This is a unique combination between a World Cup qualifier organizer and a studbook. What Swedish breeders gain access to through SWB Trophy is unparalleled." 

Vicky Castegren, herself a breeder, understands the effort behind producing top-quality horses: "Being a breeder is tough, and we put in a lot of work to develop our horses. The rest is up to the riders and the progress they bring to the horses. This competition is one of their best opportunities for growth." 

SWB Trophy continues to be a crucial platform for young horses and their future success in competition.