Happy Now Friesians participate at Midwest Horse Fair

The Friesian horses of Happy Now Friesians owned by John and Alice Burke of Lansing thrilled crowds at the 2010 Midwest Horse Fair held in Madison, WI April 16 and 17, as Dan Griffin of Spring Grove, MN drove four Friesians (pictured at right) across the arena on a Roman chariot. Griffin himself was dressed in full Roman Centurion armor. After trotting the team, he spurred them on, guiding the team around the arena, then through tight turns and finally to a standstill salute. A video of the event can be seen on You Tube at www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcOd-wkheiQ. The Friesian horse originated in the province of Friesland in the Netherlands. They are known for their loving demeanor, their black, muscular stature, profuse manes and tails, their versatility and powerful gaits. The Burkes breed and sell purebred Dutch Friesians on their organic farm south of Lansing. They have shown their horses at the Minnesota Horse Expo, Aspire’s Dancing With Horses, and many local parades. For more information, photos and videos, visit their website at www.happynowfriesians.com. Submitted photo.