What is the purpose of the Friesian Sporthorse Association?
The purpose of the Friesian Sporthorse Association is to be the first and only registry dedicated exclusively to recognizing and promoting the true Friesian Sporthorse. It is our goal to encourage and recognize quality Friesian crossbreds bred especially as sporthorses, based on established sporthorse and Warmblood breeding practices and registration guidelines.
What makes the Friesian Sporthorse Association different from the various registries for Friesian crossbreds?
The Friesian Sporthorse Association is the official registry of the Friesian Sporthorse, and is the only registry dedicated to recognizing and promoting the true Friesian Sporthorse exclusively, and as a breed. We are not just another registry for recording Friesian crossbreds, we are a breed registry devoted exclusively to the Friesian Sporthorse, thru recognition, promotion, and strict breeding guidelines aimed at preserving and improving the Friesian Sporthorse as a breed.
Why are warmbloods and Thoroughbreds favored for crossbreeding with Friesians?
Decades of Warmblood and sporthorse breeding have proven these breeds to be the most successful for creating horses which will have the maximum potential for success in “sport”. While all breeds may have lovely characteristics and characteristics which make them special for certain disciplines, our focus is on Friesian Sporthorses exclusively. The development of our criteria has been strongly influenced by established sporthorse and Warmblood breeding practices, as well as the breeding practices which have been proven most successful among true Friesian Sporthorse breeders.
Why are the Gharib or Hamid Arabian lines the only ones accepted in the Main Book?
These particular Arabian lines have been proven successful thru careful and selective crossbreeding with Friesians, especially in Europe.
Why are some non-traditional breeds acceptable for Auxiliary Book registration, and others are not?
Some non-traditional breeds have been proven to cross nicely specifically with Friesians, while still keeping the Friesian Sporthorse objective in mind. Because these breeds are not as accepted or proven for sporthorse breeding as Warmbloods or Thoroughbreds, they are not eligible for Main Book registration, however they do deserve a place in the development of the Friesian Sporthorse, and therefore are eligible for full registration in the Auxiliary Book.
Why do you accept purebred Friesians, when this is a registry for Friesian Sporthorses?
Purebred Friesians play a vital role in the development of Friesian Sporthorses and it is important to recognize and record them as well, if they are actively contributing to the development of the Friesian Sporthorse thru crossbreeding.
What if I am not entirely sure of my horse’s breeding, or I don’t have proper documentation?
You may still apply for a Certificate of Pedigree. Information should be indicated as “unknown” or “believed to be”, as applicable. A minimum 25% Friesian blood must be verified, however.
How do I get my horse DNA tested?
It is a very simple process to submit for DNA testing directly, as the owner, and then simply send a copy of the results to us. Any reputable laboratory which tests equine DNA is acceptable, although we recommend UC Davis (see our Links page for a link to UC Davis for DNA submission.)
What is the difference between the terms "Friesian Sporthorse" and "Friesian Sport Horse"?
There is a big difference between the terms "Friesian Sporthorse" and "Friesian Sport Horse". "Friesian Sporthorse" refers to the breed, as defined in our Breed Standards and our Registation Guidelines. The Friesian Sporthorse Association is the only registry dedicated exclusively to the Friesian Sporthorse. Friesian Sporthorse™ is a registered trademark of the Friesian Sporthorse Association. "Friesian Sport Horse" is often used as a generic term to describe any Friesian crossbred, regardless of the breeding or registry affiliation.
How can I get more involved with the Friesian Sporthorse Association?
Contact us! We welcome ideas, suggestions, etc. We will also be looking to expand and add Regional Representatives in 2008, so let us know if you would be interested.
Can I become a member if I don't own a Friesian Sporthorse?
Yes! It's easy. Simply use the Membership Application instead of the Application for Registration.
What if my horse is already registered with another registry?
This is not a problem, we welcome members and horses which are also affiliated with other registries.
Why are some non-traditional breeds acceptable for Main Book registration, and others are not?
A few non-traditional breeds have proven to cross especially nicely specifically with Friesians, while still keeping the Friesian Sporthorse objective in mind. Specifically Saddlebreds (and Georgian Grandes), Andalusians/Lusitanos, and the Gharib and Hamid line Arabians. Because of the success of these specific crosses, the decision was made to include them in the Main Book.
What is the purpose of the Friesian Sporthorse Association?
What makes the Friesian Sporthorse Association different from other registries for Friesian crossbreds?
Why are warmbloods and Thoroughbreds favored for crossbreeding with Friesians?
Why are Gharib or Hamid line Arabians the only ones accepted in the Main Book?
Why are some non-traditional breeds acceptable for Auxiliary Book registration, and others are not?
Why do you accept purebred Friesians, when this is a registry for Friesian Sporthorses?
What if I am not entirely sure of my horse’s breeding, or I don’t have proper documentation?
How do I get my horse DNA tested?
How can I get more involved with the Friesian Sporthorse Association?
Can I become a member if I don't own a Friesian Sporthorse?
What if my horse is already registered with another registry?