Hoitze is a very traditional, solid, and imposing type of Friesian. Known as Baroque style, they were bred as workhorses on farms in northern Holland and, as such, were big-boned with really heavy necks. Hoitze has certainly retained these characteristics.

Sired by Tetse 394 and born in 2002, we saw Hoitze as a three-year-old stallion in Holland and were fortunate enough to secure him for our carriage driving business. He has been worth his weight in gold ever since. Hoitze is a very intelligent horse who loved to be mentally stimulated to stay interested in life. He got bored easily so his work used to range from driving, hacking, schooling (his least favorite pastime!), a little bit of trick training, the odd small cross-country course, and going out with the Vale of Lune Hunt for a couple of Ambles each year.

Hoitze always loved pulling all of our carriages and was our anchor horse as he has such an enormous amount of power. When he paired up with Droomwals in the carriage, they were a spectacular sight to behold! Hoitze is a real softy with children, a few of whom have had a sit on his back and he's been on his best behavior. Equally, he enjoyed testing out the more experienced riders from time to time, all of course in good humour! He thrives on attention and loves nothing more than having a really ripe banana or pear with his breakfast--or even a cup of tea or coffee!

Hoitze had some busy years with his wedding work, photo shoots, and hacks which he thoroughly enjoyed. He also went along to 'Your Horse Live' to represent the Friesian in the 'Breeds Village' which was his idea of heaven. What more could a Friesian want--people to talk about and fuss over him all day long!

Hoitze retired from work in 2018 as he has arthritis in his front feet and hocks. When he first retired, he lived with Femma who absolutely adored him. He was truly heartbroken when she passed away in 2021, and Tracey believes he has never fully got over losing her. We have tried various other girls in with him, but he gets irritable over time. However, he's now found a new best friend in our miniature Shetland, Mr. JB, who knows when to give him space. He loves any attention from our two-legged visitors, and has found his vocation in life as one of the best 'Stable Stays' or Friendship Barn companions. Hoitze loves an adoring audience and really knows how to work the camera! He really is "one in a million."