At Stal Okkema, KFPS Studbook and Grand Prix stallion Michiel 442 (Tsjerk 328 x Leffert 306) was euthanized at 18 years of age.

The best horse in the stable

“We will miss our versatile and wonderful friend,” said Anne Okkema, who kept the stallion at her stable for 14 years. “He was willing and able to do everything and always continued to do it,” said owner and former KFPS inspector Harm Mulder. ‘And he’s the best horse in the stable too, you could have a kid ride him.’
Earlier this year, Michiel 442 impressed in a team of four with his three sons during the Stallion Inspection. Anne Okkema drove the four-in-hand with flair, where the striking performance of the Michiel 442 was a highlight. The stallion is a true all-rounder. Grand Prix with Bennie van Es, on the beach, in front of a ten-hander. He also managed to shine in the Friesian on Ice, especially showing off his piaffe on ice.’

Born in America

Michiel 442 was born in 2004 as Michael W. to Harry Witteveen, who emigrated to America and died in March 2021. In America, Michiel 442 was one of the first stallions to pass stud certification following the Central Trials where he achieved an AA score with all-round performance. After the first year he returned to Friesland.
The stallion had little luck in breeding. His sperm seems to have the power to fertilize, especially when newly inseminated. That’s why the inheritance of Tsjerk 328’s son is not much. However, with 325 registered matings, the stallion has made the most of his opportunities. However, the offspring managed to provide an attractive appearance. Just imagine Fardau Fan Synaeda, the daughter who became Youth Champion at the 2019 Central Inspection and is now crowned with the AAA title. Or the Pleats Kroon Sport AA (Michiel 442) from enthusiast Thirza Jentje, which is impressive in terms of harness.
Michiel 442 has 1 Model stallion, two Crown mares, 10 Star stallions, 13 Star stallions, eight horses that are Sport, one Sport Elite. Two horses earned AAA scores, eight earned AA.

Descendants in pictures

In recent weeks, this American-bred stallion has received positive news because his offspring performed very well in dressage competitions. The end of Michiel 442 does not mean the end of his legacy. A number of horses can be admired in the coming months during the finals of the various Frisian and Hippiade Horse Competitions.