He was one of the top stallions for years: Balou du Rouet was always among the best jumping and versatility stallions in the world rankings of the WBFSH. More than 95 of his offspring are successful in 1.60-meter jumping. With that, Balou du Rouet has long since succeeded his famous father, the Olympic champion and three-time World Cup winner Baloubet du Rouet. Now the exceptional stallion has passed away at the age of 27. This was announced by the breeding station Paul Schockemöhle.
In a statement it is said: „It is with a heavy heart that we have to say goodbye to our exceptional stallion Balou du Rouet, who passed away yesterday at the age of 27 with pride. Until the very last moment he was in top condition, a joy to be around and we enjoyed every single minute with him.”.
His unmistakable face was as unique as his character – both traits he passed on to his offspring. For almost ten years, he has been among the world’s best showjumping (15th place) and versatility (31st place) performers according to the WBFSH ranking.
His sporting achievements speak for themselves, but the loss of this kind-hearted, strong-willed stallion weighs heaviest on us. An infinite amount of thanks goes to Barbara Jansen, who lovingly cared for him over all these years and made him a life of dreamlike happiness. Thank you for everything, dear Balou.“
Sportingly, among the over 70 horses sired by Balou du Rouet are, among others, the world cup finalist Baloutaire PS under Patrick Stühlmeyer, Balzaci with Felix Haßmann, Baccord under Gerrit Nieberg and Balous Bellini with Lutz Gripshöver.
Among his other successful offspring in sports are the world championship individual and team bronze medal winners, as well as world cup eighth place finisher Bianca with Steve Guerdat, Aachen fourth place finisher Babalou under Darragh Kenny, and the Baju NRW team that has been successful in major prizes, the world cup jumping and national prize competitions, with Stefan Engbers, Balance with Felix Haßmann, Bangkok Girl PP with Benjamin Wulschner and Bantou Balou OLD with Laura Klaphake.
Balou du Rouet started his own career with a 30-day test in Vechta, rated 9.2. After winning the series in jumping competitions, he qualified for the German Championships with 9.2, placed third in the final for six-year-old horses and won in the 1.50-meter class.