THUNDER VAN DE ZUUTHOEVE
Father: Argentinus (Hann, Bay Stallion by Argentan I)
Approved for: Oldenburg, Rheinland, OS, MV
About Thunder van de Zuuthoeve
Born in 1996, Thunder van de Zuuthoeve came into the world at the renowned breeding facility of the late René Vets in Lier, Belgium. As a son of the Hanoverian legend Argentinus, and out of the exceptional Jura van St. Maarten (by Nimmerdor), Thunder had the pedigree and the potential to become a star from the very beginning. His name, "van de Zuuthoeve," pays homage to the farm where he was born, a place that would become synonymous with his remarkable legacy.
Thunder’s mother, Jura, was a highly talented mare, excelling in her own right. Jura competed successfully at the World Championships for Young Horses in Lanaken, under the guidance of Joris Vergauwen, and later became a foundation mare in the breeding program. Her influence extended beyond Thunder, as she also produced Wunder Boy van de Zuuthoeve, Thunder's full brother, who himself was approved by the SBS studbook. Today, Jura enjoys her retirement in the peaceful fields of Zuuthoeve.
The Rise of Thunder
Thunder’s career as a competition horse took off with a strong start. Under the skillful guidance of Belgian rider Jos Lansink, Thunder claimed 2nd place at the Belgian Championships in Kapellen in 2006, and went on to win the prestigious Masters at Panhof in Peer. These achievements set the stage for a successful career. His impressive performance in these early years solidified his reputation as a horse with outstanding potential and talent.
In 2007, Thunder was paired with Jan van Dijck, a rider who would take him to even greater heights. Together, they competed in numerous national Grand Prix events, consistently earning top results. Thunder proved himself as one of the best in the sport, showing power, agility, and grace in every competition.
The Tragic End to a Bright Career
Sadly, Thunder’s international competition career came to a premature end in 2008. While competing at the Sires of the World event in Mechelen, Thunder sustained a serious tendon injury, which halted his career in its tracks. Despite the best efforts of his team, Thunder could never fully recover from the injury. Over time, the damage took its toll, and on January 2nd, 2015, Thunder was peacefully put to rest after a long and difficult battle with his condition. He was a much-loved stallion, not just for his exceptional abilities as a competitor, but also for the joy he brought to his breeders, owners, and fans alike. Thunder’s legacy would not only live on in the sport but also through his offspring.
As a final tribute to Thunder, his breeder René Vets, who had passed away in 2010, had always promised that Thunder would return to his favorite stall after cremation. His memory continues to hold a special place in the hearts of all who knew him.
A Legacy of Success: Thunder’s Progeny
Although Thunder’s time in the competition arena was short-lived, his impact on the breeding world is undeniable. His offspring have taken the equestrian world by storm, earning numerous accolades at the highest levels of sport. One of his most famous descendants is Depardieu van ‘t Kiezelhof, who competed successfully under Guy Williams, securing victories and top places at various horse trials and Masters events.
Another prominent Thunder progeny, Eurocommerce Seoul, has competed at the highest level under the Dutch rider Wout-Jan van der Schrans, further proving the stallion’s ability to produce top-tier horses for international competition. Additionally, Domingo, another of Thunder’s descendants, has enjoyed success under Daniel Deusser, further cementing Thunder’s status as a sire of champions.
Thunder’s influence is also seen in the success of his offspring in Belgium, particularly with Excenel V. This son of Thunder was trained by Jan van Dijck and became the Belgian National Champion at ages 4, 5, and 6. He was later sold to Jamal Rahimov through Axel Verlooy as a 7-year-old, and continues to compete successfully on the international stage.
Diktator van de Boslandhoeve, another of Thunder's progeny, was trained by Jan van Dijck and later achieved success in the United States with rider Shane Sweetnam, showcasing Thunder’s ability to produce horses that excel both in Europe and abroad.
Thunder’s Lasting Impact
Thanks to the success of his offspring and his unparalleled contributions to the breeding program at Zuuthoeve, Thunder earned the title of BWP Ambassador, standing alongside some of the most revered stallions in show jumping history, including Darco, Heartbreaker, and Clinton. This prestigious title reflects his legacy as not only a competitor but also a prolific sire whose offspring continue to make waves in the sport.
Though Thunder’s competitive days are over, his memory lives on in the arenas where his descendants continue to compete and win. His story is one of triumph, heartbreak, and ultimate legacy, a true testament to the exceptional stallion he was.
