Maurits Friso  (imp.1979)

Sire: Dagho 247  --  Tjsalling 237

Dam: Lieuwke 5271 Model - -Nuttert 200

April 15, 1976 - December 7, 2003

M

Maurits Friso has and always will be my dream horse. Not only has he been a pleasure to work with, he has taught me so much and introduced me to some fantastic friends throughout his life.
In my eyes he is magnificent, but in essence, he is so much more. Maurits has the magnetism of a kind gentle nature, a true gentleman in every sense of the word. Adults and children alike have adored him, patting him for hours on end. Without the slightest hesitation, Maurits has enjoyed every moment as well.

Maurits and myself with his many ribbons and trophies

                   ar    Melbourne Royal Show 1985.

Maurits was given 3rd any other breed.  At this time Friesians where unheard of in the East.  Tasmin Industries kindly loaned me the Sulky so I could compete in Harness, which we came 3rd.

 His show career was impeccable for such a new breed to Australia.

                     In 13 years of showing Maurits attained:

                            Supreme Champion Friesian

                On numerous occasions the Supreme of all breeds.

                           Under saddle NEVER unplaced.

                 In Harness, a Champion and  Supreme Champion

Random photos over the years of Maurits Friso taken by hoofbeats, Athletes in Action,Countryman,Hans Maes and myself

My daughter Emma (at 3 years) and I  rode for miles cross country like this.

Maurits retired Champion Friesian after 13 years, to only be beaten once. On numerous occasions he won Champion and Supreme Champion Of ALL BREEDS. Again as complete novices, Maurits and I went on to be Champion Harness Horse at almost every outing - also Supreme Harness Horse (mostly Perth Royal Shows). He placed 2nd at his only try at Combined Driving. In Ridden Classes he was never unplaced, and was an absolute delight to ride. Maurits, I know could have been a wonderful Dressage horse, but between us both, novice level was the farthest we achieved.

Having got married and started a family slowed my life with my Friesians up considerably.   When I was ready again, his old head injury had caused a cyst to grow in his head (benign). This caused his forehead to distort as it filled with fluid. He had large amounts of polyps growing off the cyst, blocking his nasal passage. An operation was the only choice, so at 18 years of age he had major surgery, and to everyone's delight, survived. Many, many thanks goes to the team at Murdoch University who helped save his life.

Murdoch has what they call "The Maurits Bible ", documenting his operation pre and post. The first blow up mattress was purchased at that time to help with the length of time he was laid out, and to lesson the chance of laminitis. IT WORKED!!!! Since this time, Maurits has been retired totally from shows and work, unless there's a mare in front of him switching the brain off!!!!! His balance at trot and canter lacks confidence, I haven't bothered to find out why, its just great to have him back.

 He lived beyond expectations and sired foals up to the age of  27yrs old.

However to me he is the most beautiful kindest loving Stallion (Mate) anyone could have wished to have in their life. (Not bad to say that about a horse.!)

~Di Hill~

In Loving Memory of my Maurits Friso

April 15, 1976 - December 7, 2003

Di & Maurits Friso

Today I Laid Maurits to rest at 10:30am.

December 7, 2003

MY CHAMPION ALL TIME COMPANION OF NEARLY 25 YEARS.

His face was bright as a button but his body was giving up.  He enjoyed his final float ride to the pine trees, got off  and neighed to say I have arrived

and to stake his claim as he did when he arrived at shows. 

 Me, I was a wreck, but I know I did the right thing.

He had only weeks left I am sure.

I am fine now I think.  I buried a time capsule with him so that I may let myself believe someone may one day  have an exciting discovery. 

Di ~