The Dutch Breeding Association (KWPN) decides to reintroduce scores into stallion performance tests

It was a pilot project to eliminate numerical ratings for young stallions in the KWPN stallion performance tests and to provide more detailed descriptions instead. In addition, the stallions’ characteristics were presented in the form of bar charts showing which traits were particularly pronounced and which were relatively weak. This initiative began in 2024. Starting this fall, the scores will return. The association announced that this was a decision made by the KWPN Board of Directors following thorough consultation with members and various committees.

In practice, this means that both systems will now be combined, as reported by the KWPN. The organization’s website states: “There is broad support for retaining the bar chart and further improving the descriptions.” The reintroduction of points in performance testing was a topic at breeders’ meetings, was discussed in the KWPN magazine, and several consultations took place with the breeding associations. From various perspectives, it became clear that many breeders feel the need to award points and that they would like stallions to be evaluated on a point system as well.”