Klaas S.F. Wins 2023 FHANA Horse of the Year

Congratulations to Klass S.F. Sport Elite (Mintse 384 x Tsjerk 328) for being named the 2023 FHANA Horse of the Year.

Klass S.F. is owned by Shannon Hansell but is ridden by FHANA Youth Member Addisen Hansell.

Klaas has lived with the Hansells since he was 4 mos. old.  He was the dream Shannon as his owner wanted since she first time saw his dad (Mintse 384) Perform. “I feel He embodies everything we love about the breed” said Shannon.  “The love for people and wanting to do his best for us, and the true talent at anything he tries” Shannon continued.  Klaas at 4 years old did mounted shooting. After that they started teaching him tricks and liberty where he was given the opportunity to perform in front of thousands of people with a young rider. Addisen Hansell was 10 years old when she started performing with Klaas.  Although she was not considered old enough to show him in dressage until she was 14, they form a beautiful relationship.  When Addisen was old enough to compete on Klaas they started in dressage at 1st level.  In 2 years, they have gone from 1st level dressage to PSG at nationals this year.  In the 2024 show year they will be competing in I-1 and Grand Prix.  Addisen has earned her Bronze and Silver on Klaas.  Klaas has earned his Sport and Sport Elite with Addisen as his rider. They are going for GOLD in 2024.

They have also not only competed but have shown themselves to be competitive in the sport of Dressage.  The last 2 years Klaas has been invited to Dressage nationals for 2nd, 3rd and 4th level.  This year winning a fourth place in USDF for 4th level Dressage.

Awards he has won:

USDF ALL Breed Champion in Friesians for 3rd, 4th, and PSG

USDF Junior rider for 4th level ranking 4th in the Country

USDF Dressage National Friesian Junior Rider Champion

FHANA Region 4 champion 2023 and 2024

FHANA Overall Junior Dressage Rider Champion 2023 and 2024

2 shows where he was High Point Champion of the Dressage Show.

15 IFSHA World Titles and 20 Reserve World Titles.

A lot of times show horses are not horses you can bring in public and they tend to be hot.  Not Klaas.  He loves to bow his head for any child that wants a hug from him.  He goes to events so that people can learn about the breed and get to touch and hang out with him.  He never tires of people, and He Loves to perform, especially with his little girl.  That little girl I can say with confidence he would walk through fire for her.