American Grand Prix Rider Vera Kessels Passes Away
She was 62 years old and fought a battle against cancer
March 24, 2025 at 9:45 AMBy a.conneely
Vera Kessels, a Grand Prix rider originally from the Netherlands, passed away on March 22, 2025, at the age of 62 following her battle with cancer.
Born on February 11, 1963, she grew up in a family that loved horses and began her equestrian journey in show jumping before transitioning fully to dressage. Kessels moved to the United States in 1995, bringing her horse, Dotato, with her. She competed successfully at various levels, including a debut at the Grand Prix in 1998.
After a brief break from competitive riding, she married fellow Grand Prix rider Michael Barisone and focused on training horses and students. Kessels returned to the competition arena multiple times throughout her career, notably receiving U.S. citizenship in 2014. She was highly regarded for her expertise and teaching abilities, working with numerous clients until her health declined in 2024. Kessels is remembered for her contributions to dressage and her legacy in the equestrian community.
Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends at this difficult time
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