Kostolany the prince of fairy tales

Kostolany: The Trakehner Horse with a Romantic History

Kostolany is much more than a horse: he is a living legend in the world of equestrianism and breeding, a symbol of excellence that has marked the history of the Trakehner breed. Born on 10 December 1984 at the Hämelschenburg Trakehner stud farm in Emmerthal, near Hameln, located in the Weserbergland, about 50 km south of Hannover. Founded in the 1960s by Otto and Jutta Langels, it is now managed by Beate Langels. Kostolany’s career has been extraordinary, studded with victories and awards that have established him as one of the best stallions of his time.

A fairytale castle

Hämelschenburg Castle, dating from the 1400s, is a stately building located between Emmerthal in Weserbergland between the towns of Hameln and Bad Pyrmont. With its art collections, gardens, a watermill, farm buildings, and church, it is considered one of the major works of the Weser Renaissance. A little further on will be the “Fachwerkhaus” (Half-timbered house, architectural style) a characteristic black-and-white dwelling typical of the area, of the Langels family. Past the dwelling you will be able to smell the horses and hear their neighing , discover the stable and green large paddocks and a dressage field , essential for training.

The stallions and mares from Hämelschenburg have had a significant influence on the Trakehner breed. Famous stallions such as Ibikus, Arogno, Karon, Enrico Caruso, Mozart, Falke, and of course Kostolany, started their careers there.

The Origins of Kostolany

Kostolany’s story begins on one of the most renowned farms in Lower Saxony, run by the family of Otto Langels. With their dedication to breeding exceptional quality, Otto, his wife Jutta and daughter Beate have created a perfect environment for the growth of magnificent horses. Kostolany’s life has unfolded entirely at Gestüt Hämelschenburg, a place that has become his refuge and the stage for his exploits.

Characterized by a charcoal-colored coat, four frills and a beautiful white star on his forehead, Kostolany had a robust and muscular physical structure that emphasized his greatness. Son of Enrico Caruso, known for his intelligence and ability, according to the Trakehner stud manager Lars Gehrmann, Enrico Caruso could “read and write”. Kostolany inherited from him not only talent, but also a friendly and human character, essential qualities in the world of equestrianism.

His dam Kapstadt, a grey Trakehner mare, was born in 1980 by Falke x Ibikus. Unfortunately, she only gave birth to three foals before suffering from colic in the final stages of her pregnancy. Her daughter Kadenz IV, a full sister to Kostolany, was still active as a children’s riding horse in Hämelschenburg at the age of almost 30.

An excellente breeder: Otto Langels

Otto Langels played a crucial role in Kostolany’s life. At a time when the goal of breeding seemed to be losing momentum, Otto’s determination and vision took the Trakehner breed to new heights. Kostolany was champion at the Trakehner stallion selection in Neumünster in 1987, an achievement that marked the beginning of a brilliant career.

Otto’s dedication was not limited to selecting the best specimens; he invested resources and hopes in the future of breeding. This synergy between man and horse has generated surprising results, demonstrating how passion can lead to exceptional results.

Genealogy and descent

Kostolany is not only a symbol of success because of his victories, but above all because of his contribution to the Trakehnen pedigree. His origins go back to the mare Kassette, a first-class mare born in 1937, who produced a bloodline of extraordinary quality. She was one of the highest quality members of the “mixed” Trakehnen stud, where most of the Arabian stallions were used. In the 1960s, two mares came to Hämelschenburg: Kaprice II born in 1965 (Impuls x Sporn x Harun al Raschid) and her full sister Kassiopeia born in 1959, both coming from the leading Trakehnen breeding family of Kassette.

Among his most famous sons stands out Gribaldi, bred by Marika Werner, who conquered the international scene with his talent and charisma. Gribaldi is famous not only for his sporting successes together with the legendary rider Edward Gal, but also for his offspring, among which Totilas stands out, a true dressage superstar. Therefore, Kostolany is the grandfather of the very famous Totilas, an indelible mark of his legacy.

Tolstoy – also a son of Kostolany – also achieved a special feat. With the Hämelschenburg-based Freudenfest and his brother Farinelli, he produced two champion stallions and thus secured his breeding legacy. Tolstoy is also the grandfather of the Westphalian champion stallion St. George.

Even the non-certified sons of Kostolany impress with their willingness to perform and their sportsmanship in all disciplines, from basic to top level. The two successful gray geldings Grand Prix Bonus TSF and Shannon TSF in dressage, Amazing and Pretty Woman in show jumping, as well as Karlos and Kinski in eventing. Kostolany has thus sired several high-quality horses, awarded in various competitions.

This testifies not only to the quality of his descendants, but also to the longevity and relevance of his bloodline.

A Life of Versatility and Companionship

In addition to his successes in competition, Kostolany was a versatile horse. He participated in high-level events, from dressage Grand Prix to stage shows; one can hardly forget his performance in “Phantom of the Opera,” demonstrating his ability to adapt to different situations and to shine in each of them. He was also a loving and patient companion, able to interact with riders of all ages. We remember little Jhoanna, just 4 years old, who shared unforgettable moments with him.

His romantic and gentle personality made him beloved by all who were lucky enough to meet him. His presence emanated a calm and serenity that made his closeness a unique experience, transforming every moment with him into a special moment.

Farewell to a Great Stallion

On October 28, 2013, the equestrian world mourned the passing of Kostolany. At the ripe old age of 29, the famous stallion was put down due to old age, leaving an indescribable void in the hearts of those who knew him. His death marked the end of an era, but the legacy he left will live on forever in the hearts of horse lovers.

In conclusion, Kostolany was not only a product of extraordinary breeding, but a horse with a rich and fascinating history, a symbol of passion and dedication in the world of equestrianism. His life continues to inspire generations of breeders, riders and horse lovers, remaining a true myth in the fascinating universe of Trakehner.

Share the article on your favorite social network

You may also be interested in: Totilas a Legend in the History of Dressage world