Introduction: Hollands First Class, affectionately known as ‘Harlo,’ is an 8-year-old 16.3hh chestnut gelding by Quando Quando. Harlo has been in his current ownership for the past two years, having been purchased as a lightly broken young horse. During this time, he has demonstrated exceptional work ethic, rideability and trainability, developing into a quality performance horse with genuine presence and ability.

Education, Skills & Experience: Harlo is competing preliminary, established at Novice level and is currently schooling Elementary and Medium movements, with flying changes and half passes developing beautifully. He offers three expressive, swinging paces and learns quickly, making him an enjoyable and rewarding horse to produce.

He has had extensive competition experience over the past 18 months and has consistently brought home broad ribbons at agricultural shows. He has carried his rider to multiple Supreme Rider titles and has placed at both Canberra and Sydney Royal Shows in rider and hack classes. At his first Sydney Royal, he placed third in his Novice Hunter and handled the atmosphere exceptionally well.

In addition to dressage and showing, Harlo has completed low-level jump schooling over cavalettis and cross rails and is well accustomed to general farm life. He is not worried by fireworks, livestock or dogs.

Temperament & Rideability: Under saddle, Harlo is willing, responsive and trainable, and he consistently gives 100% to his rider. He handles big atmospheres well, although he still requires further exposure to consistently produce his best work at large competitions.

He can be looky in certain situations and will react to unbalanced riders or mixed signals. He requires a rider with soft hands and a clear, consistent approach. As he continues to build strength, he will benefit from time to further improve his collection.

In busy environments, he can occasionally show tension through his work, sometimes offering small hops instead of moving forward. This behaviour is manageable and videos can be provided. He may also kick out or pigroot if tapped on the hindquarters with a whip, although this does not occur regularly.

Harlo thrives on regular, consistent work. He requires riding four or more times per week to remain reliable and consistent and benefits from lunging before riding after a spell.

Rider Suitability: Harlo is best suited to a capable rider at a minimum. This is defined as someone who has been riding and competing regularly for at least five years, has independent hands and a balanced position and is confident handling educated and athletic horses.

He would suit a young rider aged 18–24 or an amateur adult rider who is under regular professional instruction. Due to his size, athleticism and stage of training, he is not suitable for a nervous rider, a confidence builder or a child’s first hack.

He would ideally suit someone wanting a talented, trainable dressage horse to develop up the levels using a soft, correct training method and who has the time and commitment to continue his education.

Handling & Ground Manners: Harlo is easy to catch and leads calmly and willingly. He is calm and easy to clip, reliable for the farrier and good for the vet. He is tolerant of handler mistakes and generally easy to manage both at home and at shows.

Due to his size, he requires a confident and capable handler. He loves being stabled and is good to tie up, although he is not reliable to hard tie. He floats well but can be slightly nervous and benefits from patient handling. He can be matey when taken out with another horse but it is just the occasional neigh and he still gets on with the job.

He does not enjoy being drenched and may raise his head or move away during this and washing.

Feeding & Management: Harlo lives primarily on grass and hay and receives hard feed once daily, consisting of lucerne chaff, Xtra Cool pellets and a gut multivitamin. He is in good health and maintains condition well on his current diet.

He can be kept in a herd, paddocked alone or kept completely on his own. He can be stabled part-time or managed flexibly according to his environment and workload.

Veterinary & Care: Harlo has one small scar on his near side front leg, which is cosmetic only. He is currently up to date with dental and was vaccinated for Strangles and Tetanus, both were completed in July 2025. He is currently barefoot and maintained on a regular farrier schedule. A vet check can be conducted at the buyer’s expense.

Reason for Sale: This is a very heartbreaking sale. Harlo is only being offered due to lack of time, with young horses coming through, and the desire to find him a rider who can make him their primary focus and partner.

Summary: Harlo is a talented and trainable gelding with proven Royal Show results and genuine scope to progress through the dressage levels. He requires a confident, capable rider with soft hands and consistent training, but in return offers quality paces, presence and an exceptional work ethic. He is offered to a knowledgeable, committed home where he can continue to develop and thrive.