My Horses, My Teachers

This classic memoir by the former director of the renowned Spanish Riding School explores the age-old relationship between horse and rider.

Through his lifetime career as an accomplished horseman, competitor (winning an Olympic medal in Berlin, 1936), teacher, and Director of the famous Spanish Riding School in Vienna for twenty-six years, Colonel Alois Podhajsky knew, loved, and learned from a wide variety of horses. There were willing crossbreds, sensitive Thoroughbreds, bold jumpers, talented dressage champions, and of course, the unparalleled Lipizzaner stallions.

In recalling his experiences in training and showing his horses throughout Europe, the United States, and Canada, Colonel Podhajsky shows how each horse contributed to his learning of the equestrian art, and how patience combined with understanding and affection can produce amazing results. With acute insight and care, Colonel Podhajsky brought out the best in each of the horses he rode, and as he describes his methods, mistakes, and discoveries in this book, he proves once again that each new training experience shows how psychology must work together with technique to achieve success.

Every rider who aspires to achieve true harmony with their horse will find this book both inspirational and memorable. It is a unique contribution to equestrian literature.

“There are pearls of wisdom here for horsemen of any level, regardless of discipline.” —Spur

“Finally, it’s available again! . . . From this candid, instructive account . . . every horseman may acquire new confidence and skill. Don’t miss this one!” —Northeast Equine Journal