A Well-Considered Decision

Demeersman bred and produced the stallion alongside his wife, Kelly Pieck, bringing him all the way up to Grand Prix level. While the 61-year-old rider still thoroughly enjoys being in the saddle, he feels it is time for the next generation to take over.

"My wife and I discussed it at length," Demeersman explains. "I still love riding Côte d’Or, but traveling long distances for international shows takes more of a toll at my age. On top of that, I currently don't have enough horses to remain truly competitive at the highest level."

Despite significant interest from potential buyers, Demeersman deliberately chose Olivier Philippaerts. "Olivier told me a while ago that he really liked Côte d’Or. I knew they would make a great match and promised him that the stallion would be his when the time was right. I called him a few weeks ago to make it official."

Total Trust and 'Carte Blanche'

Olivier has been given complete freedom by Demeersman to map out the stallion's sporting career. "Olivier has carte blanche. He decides the schedule and the shows; there is absolutely no pressure. The horse has recently jumped 1.50m and 1.55m classes and is ready to take that final step."

The choice for Philippaerts is rooted in mutual respect and a touch of nostalgia. Demeersman shares an excellent relationship with Olivier's father, Ludo Philippaerts. Furthermore, Olivier's current home groom is none other than Flavio, Demeersman's own long-time former groom. "So I know with 100% certainty that Côte d’Or is in the best possible hands."

Future Plans

Although Demeersman will be seen less in the ring himself, he is by no means leaving the equestrian world. He intends to focus more on coaching and supervising the home rider at his stable. "But," he adds with a wink, "with me, you can never rule out the possibility of dusting off my riding boots for a special occasion!"

An Impressive Career

With this decision, one of the absolute icons of Belgian equestrian sport steps aside. Demeersman has made history with achievements including:

  • A 4th place finish at the Athens Olympic Games (2004) with the legendary stallion Clinton.

  • A team bronze medal at the World Equestrian Games in Lexington with Bufero vh Panishof.

  • Victory in the prestigious Grand Prix of Rome (CSIO) and a runner-up spot in the GP of Aachen.

  • A World Cup qualifier victory in Mechelen aboard Tymoon.

  • A successful tenure as chef d’equipe of the Belgian showjumping team (including a win at the Nations Cup Final in Barcelona).