When people see a Friesian, usually they think driving, dressage, saddleseat, maybe a grand medieval costume or two. But a jumper, or even, fox hunter? No,no… hasn’t everyone always said.. “Friesian’s can’t jump.” They’re too bulky, their joints can’t handle it, they don’t even like to canter!

As it turns out, that is utter nonsense.

Friesians may not break any records for clearing the highest jumps, or having the fastest time, but they and their owners can darn well enjoy themselves on a hunter pace! New Englander Sarah Isherwood has been attending foxhunts and hunter-paces with her eleven year old Friesian mare Daatje and chronicles their adventures, from raising the orphaned filly to galloping the courses at UNH, in her blog The Foxhunting Friesian.

Although Sarah is the only person she knows with a foxhunting Friesian, I know one or two others who have enjoyed taking their baroque beauties to hunter meets. Do you, or anyone you know enjoy an unusual pastime with your Friesian? Let us know.