It is with great sadness that the Westphalian Studbook bids farewell to Gustav Meyer zu Hartum, who passed away on 13 May 2025 at the age of 83. With his passing, Westphalian horse breeding has lost an outstanding creator, committed volunteer and passionate horse person.
Gustav Meyer zu Hartum was a formative personality in German horse breeding for decades. The master of agriculture and horse management from Herford ran a successful riding horse breeding programme on his farm from the 1970s onwards. From 1978 to 2009, he also trained around 60 apprentices in agriculture and equine management, leaving a lasting mark on the next generation.
His involvement in the Westphalian Studbook began in 1995 with his election to the board. From 1997 to 2012, he led the association as Chairman with foresight and great expertise. During his time in office, he provided important impetus for the further development of Westphalian breeding.
Gustav Meyer zu Hartum was also active beyond the state's borders: from 1996, he was involved in the FN's breeding division, and from 2005 to 2013 he was on the Executive Committee of the German Equestrian Federation (FN), where he represented the interests of breeding at a national level.
He has received numerous awards for his services, including the Federal Cross of Merit, the Gustav Rau Medal (2001) and the German Equestrian Cross in Silver (2011). In 2013, he was made an honorary member of the FN, followed by honorary membership of the Westphalian Equestrian Federation in 2023.
In addition to his work in equestrian sport, Gustav Meyer zu Hartum was also active in local politics - including as deputy mayor of his home town of Herford.
We bow our heads in gratitude to a man who, with his drive, knowledge and passion, played a decisive role in shaping the Westphalian horse industry. Our deepest sympathy goes to his family and all his relatives.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
