Taloubet Z, the 18-year-old KWPN stallion by Galoubet A and Polydor, will be retired at the upcoming Leipzig CSI5*-W competition in Leipzig, Germany.
The stallion first competed on the rated circuit with Judy Ann Melchior of Belgium in October 2008. In September 2009, Taloubet began riding under Germany’s Christian Ahlmann, to whom he has remained partnered with ever since.
Christian and Taloubet Z at Spruce Meadows in Calgary AB
On Monday, January 16, 2018, Ahlmann announced the news of Taloubet’s retirement via his official Facebook page.
“I am very happy that we can send you in top condition and still jumping at the highest level into a more than deserved retirement,” said Ahlmann. “It was a huge pleasure for me, although not always easy to go your way. Throughout the years it has always been fascinating to feel what you are capable of. This bounce, speed, fighting spirit, and quality are just abnormal. But even your balanced, lovable nature is absolutely unique.”
Their arsenal of accomplishments include four FEI World Cup Jumping Finals appearances, including a 1st place finish at the 2011 Finals in Leipzig, Germany, 1st place at the 2012 IJRC Top Ten Final in Geneva, Switzerland, and Team Bronze at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.
“I am very grateful to Zangersheide Stud and the Melchior family for entrusting you to me,” said Ahlmann. “I would like to thank everyone who took care of you all these years, and ensured that you were always good.”