With Deepest Sympathies....

Anita Mellot, of Black Horse Valley Ranch, Mountain Center California, owner and breeder of many fine Friesians and owner of "Lukas", died September 7, 2008 in a motorcycle accident in Roseville California. She was the original breeder of my Diana C. Her husband John was also critically injured and remains hospitalized.

John and Anita were instrumental in reintroducing the Friesian horse to the United States with their first group of three horses in 1982. With their stallions, Sander and Lukas, they have helped shape the future of the Friesian horse here. They were avid competitors and exhibitors, and consummate advocates for the Friesian, always willing to man the breed booth at an Expo or Equine Affaire.

Anita, whose heritage is from the Netherlands, was the President of the North American Stallion Owners, and John is a past President of FHANA. Both have been active in all aspects of promoting the Friesian horse in America. Their ranch, Black Horse Valley Ranch in Mountain Center CA was recently the site of a gathering for the return of Lukas from the Netherlands. We ask that you continue to keep a good thought for John's recovery.

Anita, with her outgoing, welcoming personality and her undeniable love of the Friesian horse will be sorely missed by people who love Friesians. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. Having just visited them in Mountain Center I find this particularly sad.

- Rosemary Elden

Friesian Characteristics

Probably the most distinctive characteristic of the Friesian horse is its magnificent black coat. Although the breed once sported grays, chestnuts and bays as acceptable colorations, only black and dark brown are currently allowed. A white star on the forehead is also permitted, but no other white markings may be present.

The breed's long, wavy mane and tail are also important characteristics, with stallions possessing manes that sometimes reach their hooves. The tail is low set and the fetlocks heavily feathered.

The fine head of the Friesian is relatively small considering the breed's large stature and features expressive eyes and small ears. The head sits atop an elegant neck that is straight or slightly concave.

The Friesian's body type is unique among horses and features a high- set neck with a high crest, and broad chest with a slightly accentuated croup. The legs are hardy with solid bone structure. Stallions stand at least 15.3 hands by the age of four, while mares and geldings must be at least 14.3 hands to be registered in the adult studbooks. Most Friesians measure from 15.2 to 16 hands, although some are smaller or larger.

High- stepping action is a part of the breed's movement, and the Friesian's easygoing disposition is one of its most treasured traits.

Friesian Facts:

Six Friesian horses were used in the filming of The Mask of Zorro (1998) starring Antonio Bandares and Catherine Zeta- Jones.
In their native country, Friesians are often seen at shows performing in complex driving quadrilles. Eight Dutch carriages known as sjees are drawn by Friesians, with drivers attired in traditional dress from the 1850s.
Although Friesians are most often used for dressage and driving, they can be good trail mounts and all-around family horses due to their quiet temperament.
Friesian owners can be members of both the Friesian Horse Association of North American and the Friesian Horse Society, but their horses can only be registered with one of the organizations.

Black Rosebud Friesians is a proud member of the FPS & FHANA.

FHANA FPS