Belgian breeding is flourishing... and the foundation? That’s passion. Jasper Doucé is no exception. Thanks to The Belgian Horse Hub, the Belgian breeder had the chance earlier this year to speak with world number one show jumper Kent Farrington. The topic? Toulayna (Toulon x Parco), the mare Doucé bred!
“From the very first moment, I knew this mare was special,” says Doucé. “After every competition, people would line up asking if she was for sale!”
“This mare made a name for herself — I didn’t have to do anything,” Doucé continues. “When she turned seven, I decided to focus more on my higher education. It was time to find her a good home. We found that with the Philippaerts family... and the rest, well, that’s recent history!”
“Toulayna achieved great success with both Nicola and Thibault Philippaerts. Now, she’s impressing with Kent Farrington!”
“I hadn’t even seen the mare yet,” Farrington laughs. “But I trust Ludo’s vision and judgment 100%. He made the decision to buy her with us and had full confidence in it! I must say, hats off to Jasper. The foundation of a horse is laid in those early years! That’s when the groundwork is done. I believe that’s the strength of smaller breeders. A breeder who works with passion, invests time, and allows the horse to develop at its own pace — that’s what makes the difference!” he adds.
“Horses that have known — that have felt — that passion, and were given the time to grow, shine later in sport. I’m convinced of that.”
This is just the beginning!
According to Farrington, the Belgian-bred mare is only just getting started on her path to success. “She has a true competitive drive and wants to show herself! That makes her incredibly sharp in the ring. We’re letting this mare set her own pace — she decides the tempo. The results will follow naturally!”
