NZ Warmblood Association Inc
Newly Licenced Stallion - Quintiago WD
It’s been a big week for Murray Riches who managed not only to get married, but also get a whole mare and foal band ready for the classification tour AND put his resident stallion up for licencing - marking a confident step forward in his developing breeding programme.

By Quaterback and out of a De Niro / Contango II mare, the Australian Rhinlander Quintiago WD carries proven international dressage bloodlines with depth on both sides. He was bred by Brent Eastwell at Willow Downs Stud in Warwick, Queensland.

Imported as a yearling, Murray has taken a patient, thoughtful approach to his development - focusing on producing a handful of his own foals while allowing the stallion time to mature. Plans are now underway to make him available to outside mares this coming season, with competition goals set for winter and next season.

On assessment day, Quintiago WD impressed strongly:

• 84.5% - Conformation

• 83.5% - Movement

• 78.75% - Jumping

Even as a dressage-bred horse, he handled the jump lane confidently and willingly.

Under the NZWA weighting system, this resulted in a final score of 82.75% and an Excellence award.

Murray describes him as sensible, versatile, and highly trainable - equally happy galloping through the forest or turning on the presence in the arena. “He gives an amazing feel,” Murray says. “He’s a real-show off, but also just the easiest dude to have around.”

Perhaps the most exciting for Murray is seeing Quintiago WD already stamping his progeny, producing classy, quality youngsters.

A strong result for both stallion and breeder - an exciting step forward for Murray and the team at Hikumutu Valley Horsemanship - Kaipaki Horsemanship Hikumutu Valley Horses - Saint Clifford Bay