“Riding should make horses stronger and more beautiful”; according to him “The horse should be happy and proceed smoothly with invisible aids. To achieve this, the trainer must be very patient and disciplined. The goal is to keep your horse proud so that he accepts you as master. Do not sit on him, but influence him. The horse must carry us easily and only then will you achieve the balance of yourself.”
Reiner Klimke Dressage Champion history
Reiner Klimke is a monumental figure in the equestrian world whose influence and contributions extend far beyond his racing career. He was born in Münster, Jan. 14, 1936, in north-central Germany, where he has lived all his life.
After World War II he took riding lessons at Stecken’s Westfalien riding school from Paul Stecken, who took over from his father Heinrich Stecken in 1950.
Paul Stecken
Paul Stecken is a key figure in the history of classical horsemanship, especially for his role as mentor to Reiner Klimke. Born in 1916, Stecken was a renowned trainer, judge and rider who devoted his life to promoting and teaching traditional equestrian techniques. His methodology was distinguished by its emphasis on a deep understanding of the horse and respect for its nature, principles that Klimke adopted and refined throughout his career.
Paul said:
“There is nothing more rewarding than experiencing when horses are doing well, experiencing success and being satisfied and gratified because of it.”
“Riding properly is enough”
In addition to influencing Klimke, Paul Stecken helped coach numerous other students, passing on his philosophy and proven riding methods. His importance is not limited to technique alone, Stecken has also had a significant impact on the mindset of athletes. He taught that the journey to success in riding is as personal as it is physical, encouraging riders to cultivate a mindset of patience and dedication. This ideal shaped not only Klimke’s skills but also organized an entire generation of riders, who continue to carry on Stecken’s legacy in the world of classical equitation. His motto was, “Riding properly is enough.”
Classical riding
Reiner Klimke represents a landmark figure in the classical riding scene because of his dedication and innovative approach to training horses. His career, studded with successes and triumphs, is not only a testament to his skills as a rider, but also an example of how passion and discipline can lead to extraordinary results. Klimke demonstrated that riding is not just a sport, but an art form that requires a deep understanding of the horse and an empathetic connection between the rider and his equine companion.
Klimke’s philosophy
Klimke’s philosophy was based on the idea that each horse is unique and deserves individualized training that takes into account its specific aptitudes.
He always stood firmly for the importance of an ethical and positive approach to equestrian practice. His motto, unequivocally rooted in the basic principles of horse training, suggests that riding should help make horses not only stronger but also aesthetically beautiful. This concept is based on the vision of a harmony between horse and rider, in which both parties benefit from mutual interaction.
This approach is not solely about the rider’s technical skill, but rather the ability to establish clear and respectful communication with his horse. Klimke’s vision thus focuses on mutual improvement and the creation of a deep bond, which is reflected in every aspect of equestrian performance.
A guiding light
Klimke emphasized the fundamental importance of continuing education and training. His belief that every rider should always strive to improve his or her skills and knowledge has inspired many to pursue excellence. Many modern training programmers today incorporate these principles, providing courses and seminars that reflect Klimke’s innovative ideas. His teaching skills remain a guiding beacon, not only for beginners but also for experienced riders who wish to refine their technique and relationship with the horse.
The Great Horses of Reiner Klimke
Among the most famous horses that have been part of his extraordinary career are Dux, Mehmed and Ahlerich.
Dux
He was a studbook Hanoverian stallion born in 1948 from an interesting Duellant x Staatsanwalt II x Alzei pedigree , his sire the famous Duellant, you may have heard him mentioned in the genealogy of some important stallions , such as Argentinus, was his maternal great-grandfather. Dux reached the Gp dressage level and produced two fillies in 1959, one by Feuerland and the other by Anilin, both used in breeding. She won team gold medals with him at Tokyo in 1964 and Mexico City in 1968.
Mehmed
Mehmed, a gelding born on May 23, 1961 by Ferdinand x Altried x Axenstein II, with whom he won the gold medal in Montreal in 1976. The horse was a worthy successor to the great Dux, who had retired in 1969, but many doubted him. He was supposed to be an eventing horse, but he was not brave enough for show jumping.
Mehmed was bred by Heinrich Pape in Wachtern near Stade, Germany. He was a son of Ferdinand, a rather old-fashioned looking Hanoverian, who stood at the Celle State Stud and was also the sire of the well-known show jumping horses Ferdl by Alwin Schockemöhle and Flipper by Hugo Simon. Mehmed’s dam, Altliebe by Altried, also had show jumping blood, so a career in this popular discipline seemed quite logical for the bay colt.
Reiner discovered Mehmed and bought him as a dressage hope. Of all his horses, Mehmed was probably the least talented at the beginning, but he had a unique cadence in his trot and walk, and a forward canter. In addition, Mehmed was a very sensitive horse. With time, patience and dedication he turned out to be an exceptional horse, achieved great sporting results and became more and more in tune with his rider. It was proof of how valuable classical dressage training was and how it transformed the horse in a positive way.
After many successful results in dressage, Mehmed was fortunate to enjoy almost 10 years of retirement, cared for by the long-time Klimke stud director Claudia Rosner. In 1986 he had to be put down at the age of 25 due to a brain tumor at the stud farm he had moved to 22 years earlier.
Ahlerich genealogy
Ahlerich II is perhaps the most representative horse of Reiner Klimke’s career. With a very fiery temperament, he was considered a true master in the art of dressage, Ahlerich delighted the audience and judges with his flawless performances, helping to win the Olympic title for Klimke. The relationship between Klimke and Ahlerich was characterized by a mutual attunement and understanding, which enabled them to achieve extraordinary results in the field. She won gold with him in Los Angeles in 1984 and in Seoul in 1988.
He was born in Westfalen in 1971, a son of the thoroughbred Angelo XX x Donar x Meldeshein and by Dodona (by Donar). Dodona produced 11 foals of which 7 were by Angelo XX , including Amon born in 1968 who later became a tough competitor from 1980 to 1988 under Dutch Annemarie Sanders-Keijzer; Silina 1978 instead daughter of Sinatra competed in Level Medium Dressage with Rick Klaassen (Ned).
Ahlerich was thus a cross between English Thoroughbred and Westfalen.
He was bred by Herbert de Baey, Reiner met him at age 3, tried him and fell in love with him.
He bought him at auction in 1975 with the highest winning price of DM 42,000 (21,000 euros).
Reiner and Ahlerich II
The bond between Reiner Klimke and his horse Ahlerich represents one of the most fascinating chapters in the history of modern horsemanship. Ahlerich, an elegant German-born stallion, was not only a four-legged work of art, but also an outstanding partner for Klimke, with whom he shared an extraordinary connection. Together, they were able to enchant audiences and win the respect of opponents and judges through unforgettable performances.
The pinnacle of their careers was undoubtedly at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, where Klimke and Ahlerich shone in the dressage competition. The competition featured an unparalleled performance in which the horse demonstrated not only technical skill but also a rare sense of understanding with the rider. Every step, every movement, seemed to be the result of years of shared work, experience and dedication. This triumph not only resulted in a gold medal, but also solidified the bond between Klimke and Ahlerich, elevating them to icons in the equestrian world.
But what made Ahlerich so special? His innate elegance, combined with incredible intelligence and sensitivity to Klimke’s demands, made him not only a champion but also a true companion. Whenever Klimke was in the saddle, it was evident that their understanding went far beyond the simple horse-rider relationship. This shared energy captured the hearts of spectators and inspired generations of riders.
Klimke tried Ahlerich, at the auction. He tried it first, and he was sure: this or nothing. He didn’t need to try anything else, he bought it.
Final Reflection
Ultimately, the story of Reiner Klimke and Ahlerich offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of dressage, highlighting the importance of the synergy between man and animal. This profound bond continues to be an example for anyone wishing to pursue a path in equitation.
“The most beautiful moment of my life. I have rarely felt such an intimate bond between horse and rider as that day” Reiner Klimke
Share the article on your favorite social network
You may also be interested in: Raimondo D’Inzeo Italian Champion
Subscribe to the newsletter to receive new articles from the Blog
