The Special Awards were announced at the recent Annual Meeting.

Gert van der Veen Award

Bieni    With scores of 80 for conformation and 80 for free-jumping, the 1.62m Bieni (Cardento X Tieni / Lux-Z) earned her star predicate as well as becoming eligible for the keur predicate. Bieni is owned by Jan and Sally Filippo of Rivercross Farm and was bred by M H. van Gils.

This award was established in memory of Gert van der Veen. He was the tie between the NA/WPN and the KWPN for 15 years. Gert van der Veen was the head of the NA/WPN keuring jury for 13 years and an ex-officio member of the NA/WPN Board of Directors. He supported and believed in the NA/WPN through the tough early years. He was generous with his time and knowledge. He was a good friend and a much admired colleague.

Horse of the Year
sponsored by Iron Spring Farm

Ravel
(Contango x Democraat)
Owner: Akiko Yamazaki, Rider: Steffen Peters, Breeder: H. de Man

2011 Highlights

• 2009 USDF Horse of the Year
• 2009 USEF Horse of the Year
• 2009 Champion World Cup Finals Dressage in Las Vegas
• 2009 Champion Dressage Aachen, Germany

Breeder of the Year
sponsored by Claybrook Farms

Marthay Haley   Martha Haley of Never Say Never Farm in Nova Scotia, has consistently produced horses in the Top 5 (formerly Top 10). Her breeding is based upon the offspring of Never Say Never (Wanroij). She has produced numerous top foals and sport horses. Her daughters are continuing the tradition being either Ster or Keur mares. They are now producing their own top scoring offspring.

In 2009, Martha bred the 5th place Dressage Mare, the Reserve Champion IBOP-Jumping and ISF Cup, and had the site Champion Dressage Gelding.

Member of the Year
sponsored by Loucky Hagens Groosman

Kathy Hickerson   Kathy Hickerson, of Majestic Gaits in New Hampshire, has devoted time and effort in promoting the KWPN horse. She has either hosted or co-hosted keurings in the New England area. She has promoted the KWPN horse at Equine Affaire and thru NEDA. She has brought in top KWPN clinicians to help promote and further the breed. Janko from VDL Stud for Sport Horse Handling and Frenk Jespers for young horses. She is a breeder of many top young horses in the USA and Holland. She promote the KWPN horse in all her activities.