A wet, but pleasant edition of the Zuidlaardermarkt today. Mayor Marcel Thijsen said this early this morning at the opening of the market. Despite the rain, he speaks of a “successful and smooth market with village atmosphere”.
A total of 962 animals were at the horse market this year, which is less than last year. As in previous years, there were also several veterinarians to inspect and monitor the horses in advance. One animal was rejected due to a wound near the mouth.
Although the market officially opened at 6 a.m., the horse traders were up much earlier. “The alarm went off at 7 p.m. last night,” says 13-year-old Jayden Bakker.
Before the first ray of sunshine can be seen, he only has to sell four more horses. “That will work,” he is confident. Trader Albert Lukes didn’t even need the alarm clock. “We were loading last night and we got here at midnight.”
Getting there early has its advantages, according to Lukes. “Then we can unload on the street and we don’t have to take the horses through the new building. It is more horse-friendly.”
According to the municipality of Tynaarlo, no arrests have been made. Twelve young people were referred to a special HALT counter during the Zuidlaardernacht.
In the event of such a referral, the parents of minors are called and given the choice: a fine or carrying out a number of assignments and conversations under the guidance of the HALT Foundation. Young people can be referred to HALT for minor alcohol or drug offenses, but also for rowdiness.