Reminiscent of the stallion in Anna Sewell's classic book,
"Black Beauty," Frederik the Great is the standing stud at Pinnacle
Friesians, a renowned Friesian breeder located in the Ozarks of the United
States. It's there that breeder Stacy Nazario selects their stallions in an
effort to preserve the bloodlines of this remarkably magnetic horse. Nazario
feels particularly passionate about Frederik, telling Twin Springs Equestrian
Center that the horse is like her "guardian angel." She specifically
recalls Frederik's tender and attentive behavior after she broke her foot
several years ago, demonstrating their deep emotional bond.
According to the Friesian Horse Association of North
America (FHANA), the Friesian horse's roots originate in the Netherlands. Eventually
exported to other parts of the world, it risked being crossbred and losing its
purebred pedigree. (Pinnacle Friesians notes that the Friesian has almost gone
extinct three times throughout history.) Yet the horse association states that
thanks to the efforts of a small group of Friesian enthusiasts in the early
20th century, the breed has managed to endure.
The Friesian horse, which the association notes is known
for its "high knee action" that makes it an excellent trotter, is
undeniably special. Whether because of the breed's resilience over the
centuries or its strikingly handsome appearance, the Friesian is mesmerizing to
watch — even for individuals who know nothing about horses. However, Frederik
the Great truly stands out as an equine treasure thanks to video footage like
this, and Nazario's anecdotes on his tender-hearted disposition make him that
much more lovable.
