Deeds: bridging the gap
between dream and goal.
———
Deeds: bridging the gap
Tatjana Dillinger
Iwas born and raised in Munich. In my family, nobody had much interest in horses, so I had to fight hard to pursue my dream of riding and owning a horse. Even as a child, I devoured specialized books on dressage, studied dressage exercises down to the last detail, and practiced "dry" – without a horse! – in the marked-out square of our garden on my exam tasks. At the age of 10, the moment finally arrived: I was allowed to have my first proper riding lesson. From then on, I spent hours and every free minute observing the work of advanced riders with their horses. I simply wanted to know everything!
Tatjana Dillinger
Tatjana Dillinger
It quickly became apparent that I had a unique sensitivity, especially when it came to handling challenging horses. Consequently, various opportunities outside the riding school didn't take long to present themselves. The combination of this circumstance and the fact that, as a student, I had limited financial recources, explains why my path was predominantly self-directed – without truly impressive mentors, but with countless incredible horses! The period during which I worked independently with a diverse range of horses continues to leave an enduring imprint on me. I am absolutely certain that these unique experiences and the strong-willed horses have shaped me into the horsewoman I am today.
Tatjana Dillinger
Tatjana Dillinger
However, my fascination extends not only to the art of riding in the form of dressage but also to the Fine Arts in all their manifestations. What both share is the creative process, the quest for harmony, and aesthetics. Diligence and the pursuit of perfection are rewarded with expressive beauty. As I always wanted to make room for both dreams – the art of riding and the Fine Arts – in my life, I now work as an architect, dressage trainer, and artistic photographer.
Tatjana Dillinger
Art is a mediator of the inexpressible.
———
J. W. von Goethe
Are you asking your horse,
or are you
your horse have a say too?
With Zimbabue I have continued the competitive successes from my time in the riding school, and today, I actively participate 'with horse' in advanced dressage competitions. I have achieved my goal of training Zimbabue from the fundamental basics to the Grand Prix level to the best of my knowledge and conscience, although at times, I find myself wondering, who has actually trained whom?!
Over the past years, my personal development has primarily been shaped through individual lessons with Dr. Thomas Ritter. I seek inspiration for my work, including values and philosophical reflections, from trainers like Manolo Mendez, Anja Beran, Julie Bismarck, Alizée Froment or are you Ingrid Klimke. Nevertheless, my horse has remained my greatest teacher to this day! The challenges we've encountered were less about riding or technique in isolation and more about our connection and communication, finding resolution only within that unique bond.
Tatjana Dillinger
Tatjana Dillinger
Ein neben meinen sportlichen Erfolgen erwähnenswertes Highlight meines reiterlichen Weges war für mich die Arbeit auf der Brother Fortune Ranch Beyond my equestrian accomplishments, a standout moment on my riding path was my time at Brother Fortune Ranch in China. Working as part of an international team, I had the privilege to contribute to the global promotion of Lusitanos, bringing unforgettable experiences home with me.
Tatjana Dillinger
Only what comes from the heart can truly a horse the heart .
———
J. W. von Goethe
Tatjana Dillinger
Like many aspects of life, my journey to becoming a dressage trainer was unplanned; it simply unfolded. I followed the call of my heart, and today, I can offer the kind of intimate, high-quality dressage lessons I've always yearned for. Working with my students brings me immense joy; they are not only a tremendous source of inspiration but have also become invaluable mentors on my own journey
With Zimbabue, I've turned every dream into reality. Thus, for me personally, it's not so much the desire for podiums and marks that motivates me to saddle up each day, but the constant pursuit of that unique happiness found in the connection with my horse. This defines my path as an equestrian artist today! One could also say I've learned to celebrate the result but love the journey!
Tatjana Dillinger
