Kavaliers Blue crowned DSHS Horse of the Year

30 September 2025

At just ten years old, the Zirocco Blue VDL daughter Kavaliers Blue has rose to prominence at international 1.50m-level this year. Ridden by Viktor Daem, she claimed victory in a 1.50m class in Roeser this summer and also made a successful 1.55m-level debut at the same show. Four years ago, this talented mare was part of the Dutch Sport Horse Sales collection, and today the auction has crowned her Horse of the Year.

Already as a six-year-old, Kavaliers Blue stood out for her scope, carefulness, and outstanding mentality. Qualities that made her one of the highlights of the DSHS collection. This horse bred by Phil van Liere, is now fulfilling her high expectations on the international stage.

Ease and scope
Spotted by Lauren Crooks during the Dutch Sport Horse Sales, Kavaliers Blue was entrusted to Belgian rider Viktor Daem, who began competing her in international classes in the spring of 2023. Their debut at 1.50m-level in Opglabbeek delivered an immediate top-four finish at a CSI4* competition. This summer in Roeser, they secured a brilliant 1.50m victory, followed just two days later by a promising result in the 1.55m-level Grand Prix. Recently, they added a strong third place in the 1.50m Grand Prix of Brussels to their record. The ease and scope with which Viktor and Kavaliers Blue achieve these results inspire great confidence for the future.

Honored at the DSHS
During the 21st edition of the Dutch Sport Horse Sales, Kavaliers Blue was officially named DSHS Horse of the Year. She follows in the footsteps of top-level horses such as Glamour Girl, Hello Senator, and Chica B Z. An unique award, crafted by Limburg artist Jos Dirix, was presented to owner Lauren Crooks and rider Viktor Daem.