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HOK
Talks with "What I like to see
is when people, especially the young ones, say
Photos used with permission from the Karl Mikolka archives. To see and learn more about Mr. Mikolka, visit www.karlmikolka.com |
HOK Talks with
Karl Mikolka Mikolka says that he is seeing
a progressive change across North America, and many people are beginning
to rediscover this classical method of horsemanship and dressage. He
observes, "All over the country, people make so much beautiful
progress in thinking, in their approach toward training, and therefore, in
what they achieve with their horses." Mikolka says he is also seeing
growing popularity of the Baroque breeds because people are becoming more
and more aware of the qualities of these horses. The modern equestrian can benefit greatly by understanding these characteristics and the cherished relationship between horses and riders of the past. According to Mikolka, a key element in this relationship was the importance of treating each horse as an individual. Today, he strongly encourages owners to keep each individual horse healthy in mind, body and spirit. "It is worthwhile to bring every horse along to its natural potential," he emphasizes. Although this may sound elementary, Mikolka says that in today's competitive environment, it is easy to loose sight of some of these basics. He explains, "Keep in mind that 'climbing through the levels' - as one of my teachers used to say- is no real proof of a horse's stage of training nor is it any guarantee for continued success in competition. True progress is only achieved by uncompromisingly perfecting the simple stuff called the basics. In quest of perfection one will discover that the simple stuff is not that simple at all. Any exercise and movement can be ridden in its most simple configuration as well as in a more advanced way, i.e. by adding new levels of difficulty through various suppling and collecting techniques." He goes on to point out that the dressage competitor represents something very important at each event. Therefore, he advises some ways to prepare for each test. "From the moment of your entry into the ring you are on stage, and filling this large empty space of 20x60m with power, grace and accuracy is what is needed to impress the judges and spectators," he states. "Consider yourself a messenger, a harbinger of correct riding representing classical horsemanship. Presenting a good example for the younger generation begins in the lower levels."
Always present in his teaching
is Karl Mikolka's dedication to preserving the past by bringing classical
horsemanship into today's dressage arena, and passing it on to generations
to come. So, Baroque horse enthusiasts do not have far to look to find a
direct link to equestrian history. Through Karl Mikolka's philosophy and
teaching, many past voices can be heard once again. His wealth of
experience combined with his love and appreciation of the Baroque Breeds
provides a tremendous resource for the modern day equestrian. He is one of
only a few who can provide a glimpse into the relationship that Riding
Masters share with their horses. Mikolka strongly emphasizes the
importance of developing this same relationship with each individual
horse. He concludes, "What I like to see is when people, especially
the young ones, say 'This is my best friend.'" And as many horse
owners have discovered, there is none more worthy of this particular title
than a Baroque horse. Horse of Kings is pleased to provide several articles from each issue for you to read and enjoy; however, the online versions do not provide the same experience as would reading it in print. Please consider subscribing for access to many more articles with color photos. Please click
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