Renowned Hanoverian Horse Breeder Klaus Bünger Passed Away

Breeding

Hanoverian

Renowned Hanoverian horse breeder Klaus Bünger has passed away on 31 July 2024. He was 86 years old.

Bünger was a shaping force for the German Hanoverian breeding society. For over twelve years, he was active on the board of the Hannoveraner Verband.

"He helped shape the association with a critical but always constructive eye. He also shaped the Verden auction system," the Hannoveraner Verband told Eurodressage.

He was not only a passionate and successful breeder, but also a formative personality in horse breeding. Klaus Bünger put his heart and soul into promoting the interests of breeders in the Lüneburg region.

"His commitment as a member of the selection committee of the Verden auctions testifies to his deep understanding of breeding and his tireless pursuit of quality," the Verband stated.

Famous sport horses from his breeding programme are Grand Prix horses Haya (Simone Albeck), young riders' horse Holly Golightly (Anna Derlien), licensed stallions Grand Royal (by Grenadier x Pik König), Beggin C (Corinna Gaus), and show jumper Statinus. He was a (co-) owner of Bundes reserve champion Donna Frederica and licensed stallion Londontime. From breeder Angelika Westerhoff he bought broodmare Cleopatra who at the time was in foal to Donnerhall. This foal became Don Frederico, named after Klaus’ son. The stallion was licensed and sold to Celle.

Bünger was decorated with various awards such as the Stakkato Prize in 2013, the Fritz von der Decken Prize in 2003 and the Hans Joachim Köhler Prize in 1992. His knowledge, experience and expertise will be missed.

Bünger headed the family run breeding farm Kastanienhof in Oetzen, which is now under the care of his two sons Christoph and Frederic. He leaves behind his wife Erika.

Shortly after Klaus' passing, his son Frederic took to Facebook. "It's a sad day today: my father has ridden his last ride and peacefully passed away. He endowed us all with the best values for life and was always honest, strong, and loving. We will miss his dearly and he will be treasured in our hearts forever."