For Bertus Naber it came as a big surprise when he saw the KWPN-stallion Ferguson enter the arena for the celebration ceremony of family Naber as Breeder of the Year.

His uncle and aunt Tinus and Geesje Naber of Vredenheim could not attend due to their health but follow the KWPN Championships as loyal fans via KWPN.tv. For them it must also be a great surprise that they were awarded this lifetime achievement award.

Successful breeding

The family Naber has put their breeding on the map via the KWPN-approved stallions Foundation (s.United), Nick Wimphof (s.Just Wimphof), Kaiman (s.Dark Pleasure), Redford (s.Krack C) and Pavo Cup winner Johnny Depp (s.Bordeaux). The horses bred by Tinus and Geesje Naber, who are supported by their cousin Bertus for many years now, are also succeeding in sport. “My uncle and aunt are of age so I help them with the care of the horses and we always make the stallion choices together. Every year, we breed five to six foals and we select strictly on movement. That starts with critically looking at the mare and then trying to compensate her weaker aspects by choosing the right stallion,” tells the surprised Naber-offspring. His friend Harry Snijders was in on the secret and was one of the only few that knew the Naber family would be put in the spotlight in Ermelo. “Just before the celebration we heard that the laptop of Tinus and Geesje started a spontaneous update, so I fear they weren’t able to follow this incredible moment entirely, but we are sure they think of this as a highlight!”

Photo: Jacob Melissen