Horses are an integral part of human history, and the origins of most breeds go back centuries. But some breeds have more modern origins, designed to fit contemporary needs. One of those breeds is the Zangersheide.
A warmblood developed in Belgium in the 1960s, the Zangersheide exists for one purpose: to dominate the world of international show jumping.
The breed started at the Studfarm Zangersheide, founded in Lanaken, Belgium, by European businessman and equestrian Léon Melchior. Melchior’s goal was to outcross various breeds to create the most competitive jumpers the world had ever seen. Using mostly Hanoverians and French horses, likely of Selle Français breeding, Melchior bred for athleticism and talent as he searched for the ultimate jumping horses.