Photo Credit: Sportfot
Bred to succeed at the highest levels of our sport, the liver chestnut gelding Ireland (Zambesi TN x Gelha’s VDL Emilion)’s blossoming career is one of the reasons he was selected as EC’s Canadian Bred Horse of the Year for 2022.
Ireland, or ‘Lando’ as he is known in the barn, is a shining example of the incredible talent and potential that Canadian-bred horses have to offer. With his exceptional pedigree and striking athletic ability, this 2013 born rising star owned by Daniel Blumen and Kim Douglas has been turning heads in competitions across Europe and North America.
Photo Credit: Sportfot
Bred by Andrew Blais of Hillsburgh, Ontario, Ireland’s lineage is a carefully selected blend of some of the world’s finest jumping bloodlines. His sire, Zambesi TN, is renowned for stellar reflexes and attitude, while his dam, Verona, boasts lineage from Gelha’s VDL Emilion and Voltaire – both accomplished Grand Prix winners and top KWPN sires.
After several successful years of competition, Ireland’s dam Verona retired from sport in 2011. Blue Star Investments (which includes Blumen) purchased him as a 7 year old in 2020 as one of only two progenies born so far.
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Under Bluman’s ownership, Ireland has made great strides in the show-jumping world. After working his way through 1*, 2*, and 3* classes with Camilo Robayo, the ride was then taken over by Bluman in March of 2022. Since then, Ireland has been steadily moving up the ranks, making his debut in 4* and 5* classes. “Daniel and his team have been doing an amazing job developing him into a top-notch 5* jumper,” said Blais of the partnership.
Ireland has become a regular fixture in competitions across Europe and North America, including Paris, Spruce Meadows, and Wellington. His performance at Spruce Meadows in the ATCO Electric Six Bar competition was particularly noteworthy, where he finished fourth, clear over 1.80m, showcasing his impressive scope and jumping technique.
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Bluman has high hopes for Ireland’s future and is dedicated to continuing his development to reach his full potential. As he continues to progress, Ireland is boosting the profile of Canadian-bred horses on the international stage.
Blais still follows Ireland’s career closely and is thrilled with his success. “We knew early on that he was special,” said Blais. “We have been watching them compete all over and are looking forward to what their future together will bring.”