source: source: Press Release Rolex Grand Slam by Adriana Van Tilburg

The seeds of this success were sown decades ago. Following Greya’s cousin Contago’s (by Cornet Obolensky) impressive fifth-place finish at Aachen under Eugenio Garza Pérez two years ago, we visited the Sandmann family. What we found was a breeding program defined by precision, a deep respect for "blood," and a unwavering belief in the power of the damline.

The Foundation: Landgräfin and the Power of Thoroughbred Blood

The bedrock of the Sandmann program is Landgräfin (born 1997, by Landkaiser). Bred by Joh. Sandmann, she descends from a lineage infused with the courage of the Thoroughbred via Perser xx.

"Landgräfin is the dam of our two foundation mares, Contessa and Cassandra," Wilfried Sandmann shared during our visit. "She produced four S-level jumpers, including Cortina Grande (1.60m) and Calida (1.60m). We sold Cortina as a foal to Paul Schockemöhle, but kept the core genetics to build our own future."

The "Perser xx" influence made the horses sharp and occasionally sensitive, but it provided an elite edge. "You could build the jumps as high as you liked—they never batted an eye," Sandmann recalled.

Contessa: The Mother of a Champion

To balance the sharp nature of his mares, Sandmann turned to Contender, seeking his legendary rideability and temperament. This cross produced Contessa, a mare whose own sport career at 1.45m was cut short by injury, but whose legacy in the breeding shed is now immortal.

Among her offspring is the world-beater Greya (originally named Contina). Under Kent Farrington, Greya has become a global phenomenon, winning seven 1.60m Grands Prix in a single year. Sandmann was always realistic about her unique character: "Johannes Ehning told me early on she was special. She had her own ideas and needed a rider who wouldn't force her into a traditional mold. In Kent, she found the perfect partner."

While Greya conquers the world, her genetics are secured at home through her approved son, Chin Grey (by Chinchero), and her half-brother Louis 353, currently competing at 1.45m.

Cassandra: A Second Pillar of Success

The second foundation mare, Cassandra (by Cassini II), proved that "Plan B" can sometimes lead to greatness. Originally wanting Cassini I, Sandmann was forced to use his brother due to breeding restrictions at the time. The result was a National Foal Champion who the Sandmanns refused to sell.

"Good mares belong in breeding," Wilfried stated firmly. That philosophy paid off. Cassandra’s first foal, Quintini, became a Nations Cup star for Belgium under Pieter Clemens. Her third, Contago, represented Mexico at the Paris Olympics and the World Championships in Herning.

A Bittersweet Farewell

Wilfried Sandmann’s breeding philosophy was never about mass production; it was about understanding the "soul" of the horse and finding the right match for their spirit. Though he was not there to see Greya lift the trophy in Geneva, the roar of the crowd served as a final, thunderous tribute to a breeder who spent a lifetime reaching for the stars.