Globalization has a special meaning for Oldenburg breeders and owners as an American breeder presented yet again the highest-priced horse at an Oldenburg Auction at the 70th Elite Anniversary Auction in Vechta, Germany, and Nancy Holowesko of Crosiadore Farm is featured in the international "Achievements of 2008" published by the Oldenburg Verband.

The wonderful and powerful-moving approved stallion, Somerset, bred by Holly Simensen was the highest-priced horse at the 2009 Spring Elite Auction in Vechta, Germany, held in early April. Simensen is originally from Montreal, Canada, moved to New England after she married the United States Equestrian Team veterinarian, Marty Simensen, and has been living in Wellington, FL, for many years working as the director of the North American division of the Oldenburg Horse Breeders' Society. Having bred generations of super horses, it was another proud moment for her to have bred a stallion worthy of a bidding duel between Spain and Luxembourg. Spain ultimately won the bid, and the stallion will be staying in Germany to be trained and hopefully prepared for the 2009 Bundeschampionate.

Somerset (Stedinger x St.Pr.St. Aimee, by Rubinstein) was a real favorite of Simensen's as he grew up and developed, so although she was very happy, it was also bittersweet to see him sold.

She is now the second American breeder in a row to present the top-priced horse at an Oldenburg Elite Auction in Vechta. In the 2008 Fall Elite Auction, Ann Kitchell of Huntington Farm, VT, presented the remarkable Bundeschampionate Bronze medal winning stallion, Statesman, who was sold to Lux-Dressage of Luxembourg for a record price.

Also being honored by being featured in the international publication of the German Oldenburg Verband, "Achievements of 2008," was Holowesko of Crosiadore Farms for her champion mare of the first-ever Oldenburg Mare Performance Test held in September of 2008 at High-Point Hanoverians in Chestertown, MD. Nancy also recently had success with three of her horses at the 2009 Spring VADA/Nova Dressage Show at Morven Park.

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