Diane Kastama Loses Equine Driving Partner
RELEASE: October 30, 2008
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: By the United States Driving for the Disabled, Inc.
In October 2008, international para-equestrian driver Diane Kastama lost her equine driving partner, Jasper. The 13-year-old Welsh Cob gelding was loved by many. Kastama met Jasper with his tandem and pair mate, Rupert, at the World Championships in 2004. After leasing the gelding for the competition, Kastama found she couldn't leave him in Scotland.
Purchasing the cobs, they came back stateside to take on the combined driving world. Not only was Jasper her competitive partner, but they teamed up for many para-equestrian and driving demonstrations. The gorgeous bay horse dazzled crowds from her home state of California all the way to the audience at Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Every person that met Jasper was impressed by both his quiet gentleness and his brilliance. He was a beloved horse who will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune to met him.