The history of the Landgestüt Redefin

Redefin State Stud has played an important role in Mecklenburg horse breeding for more than 200 years. The state stud farm supplied the stables of the Schwerin ducal family with noble horses as early as 1710, before it was founded in 1812 by Duke Franz I of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Since then, the Mecklenburg Warmblood has been bred in Redefin. In 1817, there were already 20 stallions at stud in Lübz, Schwerin, Rehna, Doberan, Grevesmühlen and Redefin. In the years that followed, however, the use of English thoroughbreds led to deficiencies in the breeding work, which impaired the profitability of the horses. To counteract this, the proportion of thoroughbred and half-blood stallions was reduced and cold-blooded horses were used for cross-breeding.

However, the breeding suffered a severe blow in 1867, whereupon Hanoverian stallions were purchased, descended from the original Mecklenburg strain, and the breeding goals were set anew. In 1892, the director of the Hanoverian State Stud in Celle, Major (ret.) Christian Freiherr von Steglin, was appointed Chief Stable Master and continued the upswing of the State Stud and Mecklenburg horse breeding. In 1921, the chairman of the Oldenburg licensing commission, Major (ret.) Werner Freiherr von Wenckstern, was appointed senior stable master and director of the state stud in Redefin.

During the First World War, the demand for horses increased, so in 1920 there were 176 stallions and 10,084 coverings. But in the post-war period, the mechanization of agriculture, the formation of cooperatives and the dissolution of farms led to a decline in horse breeding. To counteract this, in the 1970s a breeding management was attached in Schwerin and Rostock and a horse marketing department was introduced in Redefin. In addition, a tourism department was established.

Since 1993, the Redefin State Stud has been owned by the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and is looked after by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry in Schwerin. Thanks to considerable financial resources, the listed buildings of the stud could be renovated and used, and a portal riding hall was built. Today, the Redefin State Stud is an important site for horse breeding in Mecklenburg and Western Pomerania.

Training: The Redefin State Stud as a training center

The State Stud Redefin offers a total of 12 apprenticeships in the following main areas:

• Pferdewirt - specialization in husbandry and service
• Pferdewirt - specialization in classical riding training
• Pferdewirt - specialization breeding

Training to become a Pferdewirt at the Redefin State Stud requires a great deal of commitment and a wide range of skills. In addition to a certain talent for riding and a distinct feeling for dealing with horses, knowledge of human nature and a willingness to work hard are also required. The three-year training program, which can be shortened if desired, also includes part-time vocational school instruction at the Zierow Vocational School. After successful completion, there is the possibility of being taken on in vacant positions, but there is no guarantee of this. A secondary school diploma is recommended, while criminal record and health suitability are mandatory. More information about the vocational training of the State Stud Redefin can be found here.

What are the tasks of the State Stud Redefin?

Redefin State Stud sees itself as a place where people and horses come together, providing a platform not only for the promotion of equestrian sport, but also for the cultivation of cultural heritage and the preservation of traditional customs. The stud, which can look back on over 200 years of history, is not only an important economic factor in the region, but also a cultural attraction for visitors from near and far.

Stallion husbandry is one of the central pillars of the Redefin State Stud. The stud provides high-quality breeding stallions at affordable stud fees via a network of breeding stations in the state. It also operates an EU insemination station as well as a national insemination station and conducts performance tests of breeding stallions and broodmares in accordance with animal breeding legislation. Foal purchase and young stallion rearing as well as the sale of trained horses for sport and leisure round off the range of services.

The Redefin State Stud is also a training center for aspiring equestrian athletes. The FN-approved riding school and the FN-approved driving school offer sound training and further education for professionals and amateurs. The stud offers a wide range of courses and examinations, from trainer license courses to the acquisition of riding badges. The horses are also gently trained and encouraged. Guest boxes and spacious paddocks as well as a guest house are available for course participants and guest horses.

In addition to stallion husbandry and training, tourism and the organization of events form another pillar of Redefin State Stud. The stud farm organizes its own events such as the traditional stallion parades, riding and driving competitions and open days. The stud farm can also be used for cultural and equestrian events such as classical concerts, fairs & exhibitions or an international tournament (CSI***/CDN) can also be hired. Seminar and company events are also held here. A guest house is available for trail riders and vacationers. The stud trail between the state studs of Redefin and Neustadt/Dosse (160 km) also offers an attractive opportunity for riding and carriage rides.

The Redefin State Stud is not only committed to promoting equestrian sports, but also to preserving the cultural heritage and maintaining traditional customs. The stud farm, which is a listed building, is an attraction for visitors from near and far and makes an important contribution to the economic development of the region.

Stallion stock

Currently, the stallion population comprises 28 active state stud stallions, including 22 warmblood stallions, 3 cold-blood stallions, two Lewitzers and one Thoroughbred stallion, which are used at 2 insemination stations and service stations. The latest additions to the stallion stock of the State Stud Redefin can be found here.

Known stallions from Redefin

Juventus (Juon II x Sunbeam)

Juventus, one of the most successful stallions on the Mecklenburg sport and breeding scene, died on May 5, 2015 at the age of 26. A few minutes after starting work at the stallion station, he lay down in his stall and fell asleep forever. With his trainer Michael Thieme in the saddle, Juventus dominated the dressage scene in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern for many years and produced highly talented breeding and sport horses.

Juventus was regarded as a model stallion of the reunification period and will be fondly remembered not only by riders and breeders but also by the students of the State Riding School. In the best of health right up to the end, he gave his young riders the joys of classical riding. His influence on horse breeding and equestrian sport in the region should not be underestimated.

The stallion was born in the Netherlands in 1989 and discovered by Michael Thieme in 1992. He quickly recognized the young horse's potential and brought him to Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. With Thieme in the saddle, Juventus celebrated numerous successes at national and international level, including victories in Grand Prix competitions.

Juventus also left his mark as a breeding stallion. Many of his offspring are successful in dressage and show jumping and shape the breeding landscape in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
With the death of Juventus, the region has lost one of its most successful and influential stallions. But his legacy lives on in the numerous offspring and in the memories of those who had the privilege of getting to know him.

Grabenstern I (Grabensee x Juventus)

A Mecklenburg state stud stallion with an impressive track record.

Grabenstern I, a beautiful Mecklenburg state stud stallion, has developed into a successful Grand Prix horse after completing an outstanding stallion performance test. His remarkable jumping ability, intelligence and outstanding work ethic have made him a winner in advanced show jumping competitions. He can also boast placings at 1.45 m level. His beautiful face, excellent rideability and unique interior make him a perfect sire for performance breeding and guarantee offspring that are needed in general riding and driving sport.

Grabenstern's sire Grabensee was also a Redefiner state stud stallion and successful in show jumping up to advanced (S**) level. His dam's sire Juventus, one of the most important Redefin stallions ever, was a serial winner in advanced dressage competitions under Michael Thieme and has produced 206 successful offspring. The stallions Mistral II and Jupiter I can also be found in the lineage.

In addition to his sporting successes, Grabenstern I is also of great interest to the breeders of IG Erhaltungszucht of the old Mecklenburg lines. His pedigree and performance record make him an extremely valuable stallion for breeding. More information about Grabenstern I can be found here.

Clarcon (Casall Ask x Cassini I)

Clarcon is a successful stallion who was honored as a premium stallion in 2012 and passed his stallion performance test in 2013. He has an ideal neck line, a strong back and correct conformation. With his new rider Sven Göller, he has already placed in advanced (S*) level show jumping competitions. Clarcon passes on his modern characteristics such as elasticity, a very good canter, jumping manner and jumping ability to his offspring. In his first years at stud, he already has 92 registered sport horses and three licensed sons. You can find more information about Clarcon here.

D'Olympic (Donnerhall x Cor de la Bryere)

D'Olympic is an elite stallion known for his successful career and the performance of his offspring. He began his own career as the winner of his stallion performance test and continued it with two successful participations in the Bundeschampionat for dressage horses. In 2000, he reached his peak as Vice World Champion of young dressage horses under his permanent rider and trainer Michael Thieme. D'Olympic continued to develop up to advanced level and was continuously successful for many years.

D'Olympic can also impress as a sire. His offspring are successful in all approved associations, including Dujardin, the champion stallion of the 2012 Mecklenburg licensing. He has a total of 365 successful sport offspring, 17 of which are successful up to advanced (S) level show jumping, four up to advanced (S) level dressage and two up to advanced (S) level driving. His daughter Dyleen is a show jumper and won the gold medal at the European Junior Championships in show jumping. In addition, D'Olympic is paired with blooded dams and is therefore a guarantee for successful eventing horses such as Don Diego and Donja, who are both by Meerwirbel xx.

D'Olympic's offspring are characterized by their strength of character, people orientation and their high rideability traits. Although D'Olympic passed away in 2019, his semen is still available. More information can be found here.

Events of the State Stud Redefin

Horse Festival Redefin

The Horse Festival Redefin, already a fixture on the sporting calendar, will return to the Redefin State Stud this year from May 5 to 7. The tournament will have international dressage (CDI) on the program for the first time, along with a CSI. The Redefin Horse Festival will also be the site for a qualifier for the NÜRNBERGER BURG-POKAL and for the qualifiers for the Bundeschampionats for five- and six-year-old dressage horses.

In 2021, the Redefin Horse Festival was able to take place against all expectations, albeit under strict pandemic restrictions. This year, the organizers are looking forward to welcoming numerous spectators to the beautiful grounds once again. The enthusiasm of equestrian fans from near and far will give the international event its typical atmosphere.

The CSI will maintain the familiar program with four tours, including the Youngster Tour, the Small, Medium and Large Tour. The highlight is that it will also be possible to switch between the individual tours within a certain framework in order to adapt the individual training path. The international guests also like to use the Small Tour and the Youngster Tour to bring more young horses. The Championships of Redefin and the Grand Prix of Redefin are the highlights of the tournament, which hold prestige as well as world ranking points.

Dressage will be upgraded this year, from the popular CDN to the CDI. Dressage will be moved from the Landgestüt Park to the Parade Ground in the stadium and will also include a small international tour. The Grand Prix, Grand Prix Special and Grand Prix Freestyle will be part of the CDI.

The horse festival Redefin is shown from the first to the last day at ClipMyHorse.TV broadcast. On-site access is free under the pandemic rules of the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, tickets are only required for fixed seats in the grandstand. With an international dressage program and a proven CSI format, the Horse Festival Redefin an exciting and unforgettable experience for all horse fans.

Redefin Horse Days 

The Redefin Horse Days - HENGSTPARADE - offer every horse lover an eventful day around the topic horse. In the morning, interesting information events take place and there is a photo gallery for individual souvenir pictures from Redefin. Furthermore, people who work with horses in various fields will be introduced. In addition, there will be a bird of prey show and a demonstration on the subject of horses & hunting, which will delight visitors.

From 1 p.m. the great stallion parade of Redefin horses will start. Here you can admire breathtaking displays, horsemanship and driving skills in all disciplines, as well as guests from all over the world. There are horses from other countries shown in exhilarating action.

The entire show is presented in a relaxed and harmonious atmosphere and is rounded off by live music and surprise guests.

This is a day for the whole family, where pure emotions can be enjoyed and the Redefin stallions can be experienced at their best. There is a social program for all visitors, especially for children.

Attractive ticket prices ensure a relaxed day at the Redefin State Stud. The team is looking forward to your visit and you can also follow the program of the Redefin Horse Days on social media.

Secure your tickets now for the large covered grandstand at the parade ground and experience horses up close at the State Stud Redefin. You can find more information here.

LebensArt exhibition at the State Stud Redefin

The Landgestüt Redefin, a true jewel, will open its doors for the 19th LebensArt - Garden, Living & Lifestyle Exhibition from June 2 to June 4, 2023.

The stud farm was founded as early as 1812 and still exudes the charm of a long tradition. The idyllic landscape and the beautifully restored buildings create a perfect setting for a successful sales exhibition. 

A walk through the well-kept green spaces, past the old trees and the snow-white buildings, leads visitors to the "LebensArt - Erlesenes & Schönes". In the creamy white pagoda tents and on the spacious outdoor area, vendors of antique exhibits present their treasures. There is also an indoor area available for them again.

The exhibition is aimed at visitors who, as lovers and connoisseurs, appreciate interesting and exclusive, but also everyday products. Visitors can discover fashion, jewelry, antiques, literature, plants, accessories for indoors and outdoors, furniture, small art and much more.

A varied gastronomic offer rounds off the experience and invites visitors to enjoy LebensArt to the full.

The charming and atmospheric backdrop of the Landgestüt Redefin encourages visitors to stroll and consume. The State Stud Redefin cordially invites you to visit the LebensArt exhibition and do pleasant business. You can find more information here.

MV Festival

WELTSTARS in Redefin: Concerts in a unique setting!

This summer, the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Festival will once again bring world stars to the riding hall at the historic portal of the Redefin State Stud. The converted riding hall serves as an acoustically outstanding concert hall and provides a unique backdrop for top-class concerts.

This year, visitors can enjoy this special concert atmosphere three times. But before the concerts begin, guests can enjoy a picnic on the green meadows in front of the classicist portal of the state stud and experience an impressive horse show.

The combination of culture and nature makes the festival in Redefin a unique experience. The concerts in the riding hall of the state stud are a highlight of the festival and offer an acoustic and visual experience that you will not soon forget.

Look forward to world stars in Redefin and experience concerts in a breathtaking setting. Secure your tickets now and be there when the riding hall is transformed into a concert hall. More information about the festival and the artists can be found here.

FAQ about the Redefin State Stud

Is it possible to visit the Landgestüt Redefin?

Visitors are always welcome at the State Stud, but prior notice via email is required. The State Stud offers daily guided tours of the stud, which usually last about 120 minutes. During the tour you can learn a lot about the history, the architecture and the current mission of the stud. You can find out more about the guided tours and visits of the State Stud Redefin here.

Are there horses for sale from Redefin State Stud?

Yes, the Redefin State Stud in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern also sells its horses, from foals to riding horses, horses are regularly for sale at the state stud. The current horses for sale can be found on the website of the stud farm. The horses are trained in the experienced hands of the stud's riders, presented at the show and are then ready for sale. About the quality of the horses for sale at the Redefin stud farm. After making an appointment with Redefin Stud, you can view the horses for sale view and try them out. Learn more about the horses for sale at Redefiner Landgestüt...

What are the Redefin Horse Days?

The Redefin Horse Days are next to the Redefin Horse Festivalan event organized by the Redefin State Stud in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Here, visitors have the opportunity to experience the horses at Redefin up close. In addition to the stallion parade, where the state stud presents its stallions to visitors in various disciplines, you can also learn a lot more about the world of horses. The supporting program also offers many interesting information events on the subject of horses and goes far beyond the traditional stallion parade.
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Author: Nele Schimmelpfennig