A horse’s pinto coat doesn’t have to be a barrier to a show jumping career – and no one proves that better than Ping Pong van de Lentamel (Emerald Van ’t Ruytershof x Toulon)! Recently, the gelding won the 5 Grand Prix of Riesenbeck* with Gerrit Nieberg in the saddle. “His greatest qualities? He is incredibly smart and remains calm in every situation!” says Nieberg.
When Ping Pong entered training with Nieberg at the age of eight, the German rider chose not to rush things. First gaining experience at 1.35m and 1.45m, then carefully moving up to 1.50m and 1.55m. The patience paid off: in 2024 the pair already made their mark at the Sunshine Tour in Vejer de la Frontera, with multiple victories.
The story behind the breeding
Behind this successful gelding lies the passion of Belgian breeder Filip Van Hul. His adventure with pinto horses began nearly thirty years ago with the mare Vita. She became the foundation mare of an entire line of show jumpers, including Ping Pong’s dam Lieve Vrouwke van de Lentamel. She had already produced talented offspring, but Ping Pong has so far proven to be the absolute crown jewel. “Everyone wants a descendant from this line nowadays,” Van Hul says proudly. “But for me, the most important thing has always been to breed a good show jumper first. That Ping Pong also has such a striking color is just the icing on the cake.”
The star of the stable
Anyone who meets Ping Pong up close quickly notices that he knows he’s special. He clearly enjoys attention, treats, and applause. During prize-givings, he parades proudly with the winner’s blanket on his back. “He really feels like a star,” Nieberg laughs. “And honestly, he is one.”
With his presence, rare coloring, and undeniable talent, Ping Pong van de Lentamel has become both a crowd favorite and a key asset for the German team heading into the upcoming championships. One thing is certain: the story of this remarkable gelding is far from finished.
