Customer Reviews

Ahlerich: The Making of a Dressage World Champion

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Most people know who these two are. If you do not, Reiner Klimke and Ahlerich won the Olympic Gold Medal in 1984. In the book Klimke reveals the full story behind their achievements. Seems Ahlerich was difficult and headstrong. I was given the book as a gift and to my surprise I really enjoyed the story. I was sorry the book ended. I think the book is fun, interesting with warmth and humor, enjoy.

It is a very helpful book on training, problems that can occur. The one-on-one relationship with Alerich and all horses is so special. His helpful tips in using patience and the basics throughout the levels makes this a must read book. Book is also light and funny during the training. With his untimely death, this is a sure classic for all equestrians!

This book covers the training of Ahlerich from the horses purchase up to winning an Olympic Gold medal. Dr. Reiner Klimke shows the sensitive, always thoughtful handling, that went into the training of this great horse. He explains in detail why he did things a certain way with this particular horse. Like a Diamond cutter with a precious stone, Dr. Klimke was ever careful to preserve the brilliance and purity of movement that Ahlerich was blessed with. How easily one careless touch of the spur or jab in the mouth could destroy all this brilliance forever. Dr. Klimke was the best!

I first read this book 20 years ago, soon after it was published in English by Half Halt Press. I found many of the training concepts were far more advanced of my own dressage education at that time. But because the story itself about one man, his horse, and their climb to the top of the dressage world was so wonderful, I lent the book to another dressage enthusiastic.... never to see it again.

This year, I purchased a well preserved used copy of the book through Amazon. The story is still a joy to read, and now the training tidbits, concepts, and pearls of wisdom Reiner Klimke shares in the book are applicable to my own riding and teachings. This copy will not be loaned out to anyone! :-)

I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves dressage and horses in general. And keep tight hold of it. Out of print, this book is a true classic.

A very insightful book about the relationship that exists between a great rider and a great horse. I found it comforting to read that Klimke had his bad days too, but he never lost sight of the wonderful horse he knew was a gift to ride. Some of his training ideas are useful for all riders; others are for riders of a high caliber. I enjoyed this book very much.

Read about the emotions involved in the training of a horse to the olympic level.