Golden Oak Farm, LLC, announced today the passing of its beloved stallion Contester, following an unsuccessful colic surgery yesterday, June 22.

Contester, an award-winning 11-year-old Holsteiner stallion, leaves a legacy of many Premium and Elite offspring who are just beginning to show their talents in both dressage and show jumping. Contester competed successfully in the FEI and claimed numerous breed show and competition awards including ranking top in the nation in the Dressage Sport Horse Breeding awards, Stallion Champion of the prestigious Devon Breed Show, National Reserve Champion FEI Young Horse, and AHHA National All Breeds Champion.

“Contester was a rare combination of heart, strength, and character,” said Dara Rip, Managing Director of Golden Oak Farm, LLC.  “He sired exceptional offspring who are proving to be champions at both dressage and as jumpers. ”   “His kind eye and generous heart drew everyone to him. He had a fan club no matter where we went.”

Contester was imported in 2001 by Willy Arts of DG Bar Ranch and acquired by Adara Partners (which became Golden Oak Farm) in 2002.  Contester was trained and ridden to the FEI by Nicole Perry.

Willy Arts said, “He has the look of a sire” and those kinds of stallions tend to pass on their traits.  Among some of his top offspring are Valonia (Premium AHHA mare and top jumping prospect) Woodwind (Elite KWPN-NA mare), Dream Catcher (DSHB Champion and stallion prospect), Confident Z (Premium Zangershiede foal and stallion prospect), Ducati (RPSI Gold Foal and stallion prospect). In the past three years 92% of his foals received a premium rating.

Golden Oak Farm is a leading breeder of competitive sport horses in Northern California.   Golden Oak is known internationally for its champion stallions.