Reference Sire:
Wander 352

Wander 352 is one of approximately 75 approved Friesian breeding stallions in the Dutch registry. He was born in 1991 and approved for breeding in 1996. Both his sire and dam were imported from Holland, but he was born in Norco, California and was the first Friesian foal born at Checkerboard Farms. Being one of between 12 and 20 available breeding stallions in North America, Wander has been busy servicing, through artificial insemination and cooled transported semen, many of the Friesian mares throughout the United Stated and Canada. Even though Friesian stallions are tested and must have quality semen, not all Friesian stallions have semen able to ship overnight. Because of the outstanding quality and quantity of Wander's semen, he has serviced over 100 mares and has shipped frozen semen back to Europe and New Zealand. One veterinarian called his semen "turbo semen." When there are so few available stallions for this rare breed and fewer with the capability of shipping, his abilities have been helpful to many Friesian mare owners, especially those living far from any available stallion or in rural areas.

In performance, Wander has won every under saddle class judged by the visiting Dutch jury. He has won Grand Champion several times at the annual inspection at Pomona, Ca and in Reno, Nevada during the 2001 Friesian Extravaganza. He has appeared in numerous exhibitions, parades and Extravaganzas and has been a featured guest many times. He is known for his close to perfect conformation and fluid movement, especially his balance and strength from the rear. He is also known for his flowing mane and tail. Most Friesians are prized for their "hair," but at this time, Wander's mane actually touches the ground!!

The Wander offspring are beginning to distinguish themselves throughout the country. In Devon, 2003, Wander's "get of sire" offspring group placed sixth in a large class, mainly warmbloods, and was the highest placing Friesian group. One of his sons from 2002, born in Michigan, has been shipped back to the Netherlands to participate in the stallion training school for possible qualification in 2004. He has produced many first premie daughters and sons who have gone on to achieve their "star" and there are many excited owners of his offspring. As Wander's mom, I tell every mare owner who used Wander to sire their next foal that they get me, Nina, as their mother-in-law!! So, far, we've had few complaints!

As stated elsewhere, Wander has the honor of appearing in the movie, "Bedazzled," and in several calendars photographed by Gabrielle Boiselle (she is also the photographer for the Gwani Pony Boy books, "Horse Follow Closely" and "Of Women and Horses.") You can look for Wander on the cover of the Boiselle 2004 Friesian calendar www.editionboiselle.de.

Wander lives in Norco, CA, travels the trails and enjoys visitors. He is so loving and quiet little children can walk right into his stall. His next important milestone is the inspection and approval of his offspring, both in North America and in the Netherlands. Pending a good report, he is gearing up now for the "wives of Wander" who will be looking for him in 2004.

Text copyright Checkerboard Farms.