Minne Hovenga, who died from a brain tumour, joined the general board of the KWPN in 2018, and was universally praised for his historical knowledge of the studbook and his vast network within the horse industry.

From 1995 to 2004 Hovenga held the position of chairman of the Association of KWPN Stallion Holders. Prior to his role with the general board, he was chairman of the KWPN region of Friesland. Hovenga also fulfilled the position of chairman of the Breeding Council Rijpaard of the KWPN board

Together with his wife and partner veterinarian Esther Hovenga-de Melker, he ran the Seldsum breeding stables in Jelsum, including 15 broodmares, and where modern reproduction techniques were the order of the day.

His most successful line started with Nimmerdor mare Ibalia-W. She produced several good showjumpers including the 2008 champion free jumping Abalia SMH elite preferent sport jumping and sport dressage (by Chin Chin). Her Cardento daughter Bybalia SMH jumped 1m50 classes with American rider Jeffrey Fields and is also the mother of KWPN approved Impala SMH (Zambesi TN x Cardento), owned by Kelly Farmer from Lane Change Farm in Lexington since 2018.

Minne Hovenga will greatly be missed by his family, colleague board members and friends. “Live life like Minne, heads up, full of courage, pride and optimism," said his eldest son, Jort. True love has no happy ending, true love is everlasting. (CvA)