From her very first pony rides to the international four-star circuit, Leonie Peeters’ journey is defined by patience, vision, and continuous growth. In her pursuit of excellence, EQ Breeding has emerged as a key partner - sharing her commitment to discovering, selecting, and developing world-class showjumpers.
A Foundation Built on Trust and Tradition
Leonie’s equestrian journey began almost before she could walk. Growing up in a deeply rooted horse family at Stal Rostal, she was immersed in the sport from the age of three. With parents running a professional stable and training high-level riders, she gained firsthand insight into what it takes to reach the top.
Through the youth ranks of the LRV, Leonie steadily climbed the ladder, capturing provincial and national titles and representing her country at the European Championships.
“I was fortunate to always have talented ponies and horses, but above all, I had the right guidance,” Leonie reflects.
This structured foundation—never skipping steps- remains the backbone of her training philosophy today.
Pivoting to the High Performance Level
The transition from the youth divisions to the senior circuit marks a turning point in any rider’s career. For Leonie, it was a moment of strategic reorientation.
“In the youth classes, winning felt natural. But once you make the leap to 2* and 3* Grand Prix level, you quickly realize you need a completely different caliber of horse,” she explains.
“Buying fully developed top-tier horses is often financially out of reach. That is why we shifted our focus toward investing in young talent and producing them ourselves.”
This long-term vision paid off. Leonie has successfully produced multiple horses from their first jumps up to the 1.50m–1.55m tracks, including standout stars like Tinkousha Hero Z and Kameroen Eb Z.
Horsemanship Over Quick Wins
Because the Peeters family combines elite sport with a thriving breeding operation, they have the luxury of time. “Our business model isn’t solely dependent on quick sales. We can afford to keep horses longer and allow them to mature at their own pace. That patience makes all the difference.”
Today, Leonie is a familiar face on the 4* international circuit, with recent successes across Europe. Her ultimate dream remains clear: “To produce young horses ourselves and take them all the way to 5* Grand Prix level.”
Southern Europe as a Strategic Launchpad
A notable element of Leonie’s strategy is her frequent participation in the Southern European tours, particularly in Spain and Italy.
“The conditions there are exceptional,” she notes. “The weather, the world-class footing... you can truly feel the horses becoming suppler, happier, and more relaxed. These tours offer the perfect environment to gain high-level experience while managing the horses’ well-being.”
The strategy is proven. Just recently, Leonie celebrated an emotional victory in a 1.45m ranking class in Italy aboard a horse bred by her own family; a testament to their full-circle approach.
The Partnership with EQU.Breeding: Transparency and Trust
An elite rider is only as good as their network, and Leonie’s collaboration with EQU.Breeding perfectly aligns with her vision. A prime example of this synergy is the acquisition of the promising talent, Sir Romeo Art Del’O.
“What immediately struck me about EQU.Breeding was their absolute honesty and transparency,” Leonie says. “We were given all the time and space we needed to truly get to know the horse—both under saddle and through extensive veterinary checks. There were no hidden agendas.”
The bond with EQU.Breeding is also a personal one: Leonie’s sister is married to Matthias of EQU.Breeding, allowing for daily insights into the horse’s development. “Having that close connection creates an immense amount of trust. You get to know the horse’s true character in his everyday environment.”
Sir Romeo Art Del’O: One to Watch
Sir Romeo instantly made an impression on the Belgian rider. “He is incredibly athletic, highly intelligent, and exceptionally careful. You can feel his quality with every jump.”
After a patient introductory period, Leonie has recently taken over the reins full-time. The goal for the upcoming season is clear: gradual development with an eye on the 2* and 3* tracks. “He wasn’t overproduced as a young horse, which I consider a massive advantage for his future longevity.”
A Philosophy of Patience and Horse Welfare
When it comes to young horses, Leonie adheres to a strict philosophy: relaxation, trust, and zero pressure. The Early Stages: The focus is entirely on backing, building confidence, and fundamental rideability. Everything must be done without tension.
The Age Factor: “Before the age of seven, horses should not be jumping big classes. The focus must be on education and flatwork. The real work only begins later.”
Horses Are Not Machines
In an increasingly commercialized and competitive industry, Leonie remains a fierce advocate for horse welfare.
“Horses are not machines. If you take the time to build a genuine partnership with them, they will go to the fire for you in the ring.” She welcomes the sport’s shifting focus toward stricter welfare regulations.
“At the end of the day, it’s vital that horses can just be horses - spending time outside, relaxing, and being treated with the utmost respect.”
Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation
When asked what advice she would give to ambitious young riders aiming for the top, Leonie’s answer is simple: embrace the process.
“You will experience moments when things just don’t go your way. In those moments, you have to keep working and, above all, look at yourself. Success in this sport is a matter of time, dedication, and trusting the process. If you stay disciplined and work hard, the results will follow.”
