Jutta began riding seriously over 40 years ago at age 10. She initially had to work for each hour of riding while persuading her family that this was her calling at the same time. Before attending university, she took a year off to apprentice as a Bereiter. Afterwards, she pursued her studies as a dental technician while continuing to ride in her free time.
Over the years, many instructors helped her to ever-higher levels. Two retired cavalry officers, Herr Schemel and Siegried Pasedag pushed her in the correct direction of classical dressage at the start. For the last five years, she has ridden under the tutelage of Arthur Kottas Heldenberg and one of Arthur’s instructor students, Stefan Radtke of Germany. In between, she rode under Günter Festerling, Martin Schaudt, and Udo Lange, among many others.
Jutta’s move to the United States in 2008 was the fulfillment of a long-held dream. In 1984-1985, she lived and rode in the Burlington, Vermont area. During that short period, she came to know and love this state and its riding community. In 1984, she was National 4th Level Freestyle Champion.
Arne essentially came into this world on a horse. He has "ridden" since age two, when he acted as a placeholder while Schneeglöckchen was lounged. Later, he transferred his love for the barn cats to a love for his first pony, Tattoo. In March 2008, he finally moved to the big leagues with Nandalino, his German Riding Pony. Arne finally had a real dressage horse in a smaller format. In fact, Nandy is often mistaken for his "bigger girlfriend" in the barn, Schneeglöckchen.
Arne is a fine rider in his own right. He has developed a good seat, understands the importance of a good relationship to his horse, and has a serious attitude to dressage - once he gets in the saddle. His immediate goal is to start riding competitively in dressage.
Laurence is the odd man out in this riding environment. Last on a horse in late 1972, he has now acquired the skills of a Stallknecht or groom for the other two.
Most of his time is spent in his other pursuits: translation work to pay some bills and photography to heed the muse. His work can be viewed in his personal gallery or at the occasional exhibition.
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