10: Jessie Huijbers & Hörður Óli Sæmundarson - Training Young Horses & Breeding for Character

In this episode of The Fifth Gait Podcast, hosts sit down with Iceland-based trainers Jessie Huijbers and Hörður Óli Sæmundarson of Gröf Farm to explore the art and science of Icelandic horse training. They share their journeys from the Netherlands and Iceland to Hólar University, discuss their systematic approach to starting young horses, and explain why discipline, lightness, and clear communication are key to balanced, confident mounts.

The pair also dive into breeding philosophy, preserving five-gait genetics, the influence of legendary Vatnsleysa bloodlines, and how to produce reliable, honest horses suited for both competition and everyday riders. Listeners gain rare insight into modern Icelandic horsemanship, training ethics, and the evolving future of horse breeding and welfare.

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