Charles deKunffy clinic

I  had the good fortune today to be able to attend one day of a three-day clinic and symposium with another of dressage’s endangered species–a true old style European master who has the grace and humor to convey his wisdom in a way each of us can understand and appreciate. Last year I was able to audit a day with Walter Zettl and now a day with Charles deKunffy. I accompanied my friend Tanya, who is also a trainer at Willow Tree, and her horse Nicky to Albion College in Albion, MI for this most interesting of dressage events. What made it even more educational than the usual clinic was the symposium presented by Charles before the actual rides. He covered an immense amount of material in three hours, everything from what makes a good rider to what makes a good dinner conversation! The emphasis on culture, virtue and philosophy was presented in such a way that half the time we were transfixed and the other half we were erupting in laughter. If you ever get a chance to attend one of these events while Charles–who like all the old masters is getting up in years–is still with us, I can’t recommend it highly enough.

Now for the fun part–a few photos of Tanya and Nicky!

Charles giving some guidance to Tanya and Nicky

Nicky doing what he’s famous for…and while it looks like Tanya’s pulling in this instant, she really wasn’t and Charles praised her for letting him have his head.

Nicky doing what we want him to be famous for! Nice, balanced, strong trot!