Dutch dressage rider Danielle Katsman-Koenders passed away in a tragic horse accident on Monday morning. The 35-year old rider fell off one of her horses and died instantly.
For more than 15 years Danielle Koenders was a loyal employee at Tineke Bartels' Academy working there as a rider and groom. She initially worked as a groom for Tineke Bartels but her riding skills were outstanding and she became an assistent training of young horses, bringing them up to Prix St Georges level.
As of 1 April 2011 Danielle, also known as Daan, went indepdent to focus more on her own stable "De Helvoirtse Stallen" in Helvoirt, The Netherlands, and to take care of her children. Danielle continued to train her horses with Imke Schellekens and remained closely connected to Bartels' Academy.
Katsman was the show secretary at the regional show in Helvoirt, which was supposed to take place 19 - 21 August 2011 but which has now been cancelled due to her passing.
Danielle was married to Gert-Jan Katsman and was mother of three children: Teun, Koen and Bram. Danielle's Facebook page is currently overwhelmed with loving reactions from her friends and acquitances who grieve and share their condolences with the family.
Rest in Peace
Related Links
Scores 2006 Dutch Dressage Championships
Scores 2004 Dutch Dressage Championships