DIEDERIK VAN SILFHOUT: “I’M CONVINCED WE ARE OFFERING REALLY FINE, HIGH-QUALITY HORSES”

May 9, 2026

“What is actually most important to us in a horse is rideability. They can have everything that is needed, but in the end they have to want to do it for you,” says Diederik van Silfhout. Van Silfhout is one of the eight selectors of the Dutch Dressage Traders team, whose second collection of dressage horses is now online. A new auction concept set up by a team of experienced selectors, offering high-quality horses.

“What makes this group of people so special is that we are all true professionals, and we really benefit from each other. The collection in this auction is incredibly strong and of such a high quality level, and that is thanks to discussing and sparring together,” Diederik says enthusiastically. From Monday onwards, it is possible to bid on the collection of eleven dressage horses and two broodmares.

Auction topper sold to young rider
The top seller of the first edition, New Romance, was entered into the auction by Diederik himself. “This horse was sold to a fifteen-year-old boy who wants to compete in the Junior classes with him, and he is incredibly happy with the horse. It’s wonderful that with our team we can connect talented young riders with talented young horses, allowing them to build a beautiful future together.”

Developing young talent
Diederik has entered multiple horses in this auction as well. Horses often come onto Diederik’s path from a young age. “What I look for first is of course the basics: a good model and three good gaits. That is the very first thing I notice. But what is actually even more important is whether a horse enjoys the work. A horse can be extremely talented, but if he doesn’t want to work for you, it quickly comes to an end,” Diederik explains about the selection process. After purchase, the young horses arrive at his stable, where they continue their education with Diederik and his team. One of the auction horses entered by Diederik is the Small Tour horse and approved stallion Nobilisyade NVDW. Dreaming of Grand Prix? Then Nobilisyade NVDW might just be the horse to take you there.

Transparency comes first
“This auction is still quite new of course, but I am convinced that with this collection we are really bringing very nice, quality horses to the market,” Diederik says about the newest collection. “The most important thing is that people truly know what they are buying. Medical information is available for every horse. Transparency is extremely important to us. Videos of the legs and feet have also been made, so interested buyers can already gain insight into this beforehand. All of this information is available to bidders through the website once they are logged in.”

Collection
The new collection is now live on the website. Bidding opens on May 11 and ends on Thursday May 14, from 8PM.